Queer Power!

February 1, 2023
A who's who of the queer, iconic, and fabulous. Readers looking for a casual introduction to a diverse selection of members of the LGBTQ+ community (and their allies) will enjoy this compilation of dozens of individuals, a handful of whom are discussed collectively. The names range from the exceptionally well known--such as singer and actor Lady Gaga, drag superstar Shea Coule�, and activist Sylvia Rivera--to icons who may be new to them, like Black plus-size model Dexter Mayfield, Black British activist Lady Phyll, and Salvadoran American intersex writer/actor/director River Gallo. The book also includes a few sections offering advice, such as "How To Be a Support to a Queer Person" and "Ways To Celebrate Pride Season All Year Round." The bold graphics and colorful artwork are sure to grab readers' attention, although the likenesses of the portraits vary in degree of verisimilitude. Readers seeking traditional biographical sketches will definitely need to look elsewhere for solid facts, including birth dates, death dates, and sources of additional information; they may also feel bemused by the prominently featured opinions of the author. As a curated list of one individual's heroes, the book is good; as anything else, it's less than iconic. Beautiful fluff with little substance. (organizations, helplines, resources, sources) (Nonfiction. 12-14)

COPYRIGHT(2023) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

February 1, 2023
Grades 7-12 "Here's the thing," author-illustrator Dom&Ink (Dominic Evans) asserts, "I'm a basic bitch white queer." Yes, but one who, in this captivating album of LGBTQ+ icons, celebrates the essential diversity of the LGBTQ+ community. Readers will find trans, intersex, gender queer, pansexual, gender nonconforming people, and more. Originally published in the UK, this American edition features additional icons and text. The icons celebrated are widely famous (Lil Nas X, anyone?) and some less so, but all are movers and shakers. In addition to the work's incredible sexual and gender diversity, people of color are generously represented as are disabled icons. The book is divided into five chapters, one of which is importantly devoted--particularly in this age of rampant transphobia--to "Trans and Nonbinary Power." The format is simple: on one page is Dom&Ink's highly stylized portrait of an icon, while on the facing page is a somewhat breathless profile. One quibble: too many of the portraits look alike; nevertheless, they are all a feast for the eye. This significant book closes with a wealth of resources.

COPYRIGHT(2023) Booklist, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

July 1, 2023

Gr 8 Up-A collection of illustrated profiles of queer people and allies. The creator, using a pseudonym for Dominic Evans, works in a style that features long lines and vibrant colors. They expertly depict flashy fashion, like thigh-high cheetah print boots, feather boas, and high-waisted skirts. Their subjects refreshingly portray a spectrum of body types, genders, and ethnicities. While they include a handful of world-famous subjects such as Lil Nas X and Lady Gaga, many of their chosen queer heroes are lesser-known in comparison. The book gives valuable space to people, such as trans activist lawyer Chase Strangio and Brazilian drag queen Pabllo Vittar. Each subject is covered in a spread, with one page of summary and the other a vivacious illustration. The book is loosely divided into chapters that groups subjects under titles like "Out, Proud & Visible" or "Trans & Nonbinary Power." Later chapters like "Love Your Queerself" are broad, and the people chosen feel more random. Each chapter includes self-help tips on coming out, supporting queer friends, and more. The writing style is conversational. Some four-letter words are dropped casually, while others are censored. Helpful resources are included in the back of the book, along with sources for the pull quotes highlighted throughout the text. VERDICT A worthy addition to any LGBTQIA+ collection.-Chance Lee Joyner

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