Circus of Books

This documentary delves into the intriguing story of a seemingly ordinary couple, Karen and Barry Mason, who ran a bookstore that became a pivotal hub for the LGBTQ+ community in Los Angeles. Directed by their daughter, Rachel Mason, the film explores the duality of their lives as they balance family and business in a conservative era. The narrative provides a candid look at the impact of their store on the community and the challenges they faced. While the film has not received major awards, it offers a unique perspective on a hidden chapter of queer history. For those interested, it can be viewed for free on Soap2day.