Unlikely Friends: Bridging Ties and Diverse Friendships

One of the first books to substantially focus on friendships that cross race, gender, and sexual orientation. Usually our friends are similar- here the friendships of people who are ”different” are explored and we learn how those differences can dissolve. This in-depth analysis of these diverse relationships is an important addition to the study of friendships. — Geoffrey L. Greif, School of Social Work, University of Maryland & author of Buddy System: Understanding Male Friendships

Well researched and beautifully written, Unlikely Friends: Bridging Ties and Diverse Friendships is a much needed addition to the sociological literature on friendship. James Vela-McConnell shines a spotlight on the important but largely neglected question: can friendships impact society? Scholars, students, and lay readers alike will be moved and enlightened by Vela-McConnell”s findings on how “unlikely friends” bridge the differences between them. — Kathleen Odell Korgen, William Paterson University, author of Crossing the Racial Divide: Close Friendships Between Black and White Americans

Unlike most books on friendship, Unlikely Friends takes a uniquely important approach by highlighting friendships that cross social boundaries. Fascinating interviews reveal how friends of various races, genders, sexual orientations, religions, ages, and classes bridge their differences and form enduring relationships. This is a highly readable and scholarly book that brings issues of diversity to the forefront of friendship research. Vela-McConnell clearly makes the case for studying the exceptions to the norm while providing, simultaneously, revealing stories that reinforce the normative meanings and role of friendships in people”s lives — Peter M. Nardi, Ph.D., Pitzer College/The Claremont Colleges