This new novel explores D.C.'s indie music scene and queer culture
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Fire up your Libby app: There's a new D.C.-based novel out this week from a local author.
Why it matters: The book takes readers on a journey through the District's indie music scene and its queer culture and history, with plenty of local references along the way.
State of play: "The Maidenheads" is the debut novel from Montgomery County-based journalist and writer Benny B. Peterson.
- It follows a former D.C. musician who's given a chance to get on stage again — but it requires reuniting with the ex-girlfriend-slash-bandmate who broke her heart.
What they're saying: "I was really drawn to the idea of writing a novel about a world in D.C. that most people don't see," Peterson tells Axios. "D.C. is a really cool place to be a musician, it's a cool place to be an artist. There's so much going on, it's a very gay city."
Between the lines: Peterson isn't originally from D.C., so they dove into research to land the novel's music deets.
- Think: books like "Dance of Days: Two Decades of Punk in the Nation's Capital," YouTube videos of old Fugazi and Bikini Kill shows in the area, and a backstage tour at the 9:30 Club (the site of a pivotal scene).
The intrigue: Other D.C. spots featured include Comet Ping Pong and an 18th Street karaoke bar that Peterson says is Muzette.
- One made-up place: A music venue called The Atrium, which Peterson said was inspired by The Anthem — which they couldn't include in the 2012-based book, as the venue wasn't built yet.
What's next: Peterson is working on another novel about D.C. and its queer history — "Fascinations that I keep coming back to."
- And you can hear Peterson talk IRL about "The Maidenheads" at Takoma Park's People's Book on June 3.