Today we’d like to introduce you to Amber Isaac.
Amber, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I grew up in the rural farmlands of Springfield, Missouri before moving to Texas as an adult, where I received an MFA in poetry from Texas State University. Despite functioning in the world enough to make ends meat, I isolated myself from people for much of my life. After I transitioned in November of 2023, things changed–I found my community through queer and trans-oriented literary events, such as Host Publication’s I Scream Social series and the local rave scene.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Prior to transitioning, I struggled with self-harm issues. The rural areas of my youth offered no mentorship for queer folks, let alone transgendered people, so it took me most of my life to figure things out. While I still live paycheck to paycheck as an adjunct teacher, I am doing so as my authentic self, which gives me peace of mind. Over the last two years I have learned that it’s easier to overcome obstacles when you know who you are.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am first and foremost, a poet, but my performances are a mixture of various arts, with a little burlesque and sideshow attraction mentality thrown in for kicks. I have featured at local standards like Alienated Majesty bookstore, and made multiple appearances for the Red Light Lit reading series. I present writing as an inclusive, non-pretentious act that celebrates trans femme identities and sexuality, versus the romanticizing of suffering as a prerequisite to create art. I am proud of cultivating spaces for trans youths and fortunate to connect with so many.
In 2025, my debut poetry collection, Peppermint, was published by Plancha Press. My second book, Remember the Internet: r/WatchPeopleDie, is set to release in 2027 from Instar Books. Last year, I accepted a position as a Visiting Lecturer at Texas Lutheran University as an English instructor.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Poetry books by Sharon Olds and Cloud Cardona
Cheap dollar notebooks are invaluable–they don’t need to be fancy or expensive
Color-changing lightbulbs + selfies give me gender euphoria, which is essential in getting anything done
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/amber_isaac
- Instagram: amber_isaac_kisses
