Joshua Valentine: Making Change, Pushing Boundaries in Literature and Performance

By: Samantha Poathe

California-based Joshua Valentine is a talented storyteller specializing in science fiction. Unlike most authors, who may remain in the shadows of their work, Valentine himself is just as fascinating as the stories he tells. Known as “the drag queen superstar author,” he describes himself as “the commodification of the intersecting lines between the mainstream drag queen and the mainstream author; the face of the marriage between the serious, introspective nature of writing, and the campy, flamboyant nature of drag.” His written works serve as both a reflection of his psyche and a vessel for his image, merging speculative fiction with the theatricality of his persona.

His latest book, Somebody’s Dilemma, released on November 11 this past year, has been making waves in literary circles, with features in Equal Opportunity Reader, Speculative Sandbox Podcast, and Gay Community News. Soon, The Bucknellian will also spotlight his work, further solidifying his reputation as a thought-provoking storyteller. Somebody’s Dilemma presents a dark, abstract meditation on humanity’s demise and attempted rebirth, filtered through an intricate narrative that challenges traditional storytelling. Set in a distant future where artificial intelligence roams a lifeless Earth, the novel explores themes of destruction, religious oppression, and existential reckoning. Far from a conventional read, it demands engagement beyond the surface, encouraging readers to analyze the more profound symbolism within its prose.

Valentine has also remained active in the literary scene through public engagement. Last June, he embarked on the Coffee Shops Across California Book Tour, bringing his previous book, Runaway Humanity, to readers at Pride festivals in Davis, Sacramento, and Monterey. Alongside these events, he connected with fans at independent coffee shops, including A Seat at the Table Books in Elk Grove and Café Carmel in Carmel. The tour proved successful, with over 100 copies sold and a feature on Channel 9 News Sacramento, highlighting his growing impact.

His earlier novel, Runaway Humanity, takes readers on a gripping journey where a dying Earth forces humanity to migrate to Mars, only to discover signs of life later lingering on their abandoned home planet. Amid climate catastrophe, political corruption, and the mysteries of deep space, protagonist Dr. Shelby Hilton and her husband Drake face an existential challenge that could redefine human history. The book has received critical acclaim, including a review from Kirkus Reviews, which praised its intense, unflinching storytelling and its departure from traditional science fiction tropes by centering older protagonists and tackling themes of environmental and gender-based violence.

Beyond literature, Valentine continues to evolve his drag persona, drawing inspiration from Deee-Lite and Lady Miss Kier. While his Runaway Humanity era saw him donning thrifted, B-52s-inspired outfits, his current aesthetic embraces a psychedelic theme that aligns with the tone of Somebody’s Dilemma. Designing his fashion has allowed him to express his artistic vision more fully, blending activism, music, and speculative fiction into a cohesive identity.

In the wake of the 2024 election, Valentine has also doubled down on the outspoken elements of his work. His books, often rich with social commentary, serve as vehicles for challenging political and societal norms. As he continues writing, performing, and designing, his work remains an unapologetic force in literary and artistic landscapes.

With an ever-expanding presence and an uncompromising vision, Joshua Valentine is redefining what it means to be a writer and entertainer in today’s world. Whether through speculative fiction, fashion, or performance, his creative pursuits challenge conventions and invite audiences to think beyond the ordinary.

Follow Joshua Valentine on Instagram: @joshuavalentine1