Be Amazing

March 15, 2020
Meet some popular (and amazing) individuals involved with the LGBTQ+ rights movement. Twelve-year-old drag artist Desmond is Amazing narrates this glimpse into popular names and faces that make up the recent history of queer rights in the U.S. Along the way, the author introduces himself ("I like to play video games, read, sing, collect toy trains, dance, and model. I enjoy going to school and have many friends") and his drag inspirations. Following a brief glimpse at life before the Stonewall riots, readers learn about this historic uprising. Important figures from this time period, including Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, are introduced; RuPaul also warrants a double-page spread a little later on. Additional names and faces appear, such as Pepper Labeija, Storm� DeLarverie, James Baldwin, and Laverne Cox, but only as labeled portraits; it will be up to readers to seek out more information. No drag queen likes to be upstaged, but that's what happens with Glynn's artwork. The bright, bold colors evoke the energy of fingerpainting and add much-needed depth and vibrancy to the work. It's a jolt of energy, doing its best to elevate a pedestrian text: "We look back on those who took a stand at the Stonewall Riots as heroes who should be celebrated for giving LGBTQ people, like me, the freedoms we enjoy today." Its heart's in the right place.... (author's note, glossary, sources) (Informational picture book. 6-10)

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April 1, 2020
Grades 1-3 An effortlessly informative introduction to drag culture for young readers, Desmond Is Amazing's first book, wrapped in a riot of incredible watercolor and ink illustrations, is a winner for everyone, regardless of how they identify. Beginning with his own story of how his parents encouraged him to let me be me, Desmond segues into LGBTQ history, starting with the Stonewall Riots in 1969 in New York City. In an accessible style that does not talk down to its audience, the text introduces readers to drag hero Marsha P. Johnson, transgender activist Sylvia Rivera, and the first Pride parade in 1970. Moving back to his own story, Desmond brings the story of drag and LGBTQ culture full circle into the present day. Glynn's beautifully colorful artwork highlights the diversity of the movement, while also making the historical figures tangible to children for whom the 1970s seem long ago. A glossary of terms and list of sources add to the book's value as an informational resource. Recommended addition to children's collections.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)

July 1, 2020

K-Gr 4-Thirteen-year-old internet sensation and "drag kid" Napoles has penned an encouraging book that is both an autobiography and a quick history of the fight for LGBTQ rights. Napoles pays homage to queer, trans, and gay activists of color like Sylvia Rivera, Marsha P. Johnson, and RuPaul Charles, with two-page spreads for each individual that briefly examine their lives and influence on the queer community. However, the text does not address intersectionality or connections to the civil rights, feminist, Black Pride, and Black Power movements, nor does it provide an in-depth discussion of how the personal identities of these changemakers shaped their lives and work. Several other advocates and activists from 20th-century history are named and illustrated on a shared spread (along with a drawing of Napoles gazing up at them), but the text does not offer facts or comprehensive information about them. The sources section contains three websites and one adult book. The glossary excludes identities such as nonbinary and pansexual. VERDICT While libraries need a great children's introduction to those who have worked on behalf of the queer community, this book lacks a nuanced overview of LGBTQ history. However, Napoles's unbridled enthusiasm and confidence are refreshing and inspiring.-Sarah Stone, San Francisco P.L.

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