Justin Sayre to Adapt THE GAYBC'S: A BRIEF HISTORY OF GAY CULTURE Cabaret Series into Book

Chronicle Books announced today that they have closed a deal with famed writer and performer Justin Sayre to turn his cabaret series, "The gAyBCs: A Brief History of Gay Culture" into a book. Based on Sayre's eponymous 5-part show, the publication will be an illustrated compendium of the rich legacy of gay and queer culture, written in his engaging and vibrant voice.

Sayre performed the first installments (A - H) of the show at New York's celebrated Joe's Pub this past February, and will follow up those performances with the next batch (I - R) on June 2nd and 3rd. Sayre also served as the host of the acclaimed comedy and variety show "The Meeting*."

"What an exciting adventure," says Sayre. "I've always cared about LGBT culture both in its preservation and invention, and now I get to write the book! I'm so thrilled to work with Chronicle Books to make this project a hilarious and poignant look at who we have been and who we may become."

Says Rebecca Hunt, Senior Editor at Chronicle, "We're thrilled to have The gAyBCs on our roster. We all immediately responded to the concept, but it was Justin's shrewd and lively voice that really grabbed us. This is a rich and engaging project with a dynamic author to boot."

Sayre is also the author of Husky and Pretty, two coming-of-age stories tackling body image, gender, and beauty with humor and grace. The third part of this series, Mean, is slated for release sometime in 2018. Sayre also writes for television, including the hit CBS sitcom "2 Broke Girls." He is represented by CAA and Mainstay Entertainment.

About Chronicle Books

One of the most admired and respected publishing companies in the U.S., Chronicle Books was founded in 1967 and over the years has developed a reputation for award-winning, innovative books. Recognized as one of the 50 best small companies to work for in the U.S. (and the only independent publisher to receive this award), the company continues to challenge conventional publishing wisdom, setting trends in both subject and format, maintaining a list that includes much admired illustrated books and gift products in design, art, architecture, photography, food, lifestyle, pop culture, and acclaimed children's titles. Chronicle Books' objective is to create and distribute exceptional publishing that's instantly recognizable for its spirit, creativity, and value. For more information about Chronicle Books, visit www.chroniclebooks.com.