Who Would Like This Book:
Dean Atta’s The Black Flamingo is a vibrant, heartfelt coming-of-age story told through gorgeous verse. It dives deeply into questions of identity - race, sexuality, and belonging - following Michael as he grows up and discovers his voice (and his power) through drag. The poetic structure gives the story a unique, lyrical charm that many readers find irresistible. If you love books by Elizabeth Acevedo or Jason Reynolds, stories that celebrate self-discovery and queer joy, or you’re just looking for something moving and beautifully written, this one’s for you.
Who May Not Like This Book:
Some readers aren’t big on novels written in verse and may find the poetic style more distancing than immersive. If you prefer your stories in traditional prose or want a straightforward linear narrative, this format could be a challenge. Additionally, those looking for a fast-paced plot over character exploration or those triggered by themes of prejudice and bullying may find parts of this journey tough to read.
About:
The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta is a coming-of-age novel written in verse that follows Michael, a mixed-race queer Londoner, on his journey to self-acceptance and self-love. Throughout the story, Michael navigates his cultural and queer identity while finding his place in the drag society, which ultimately helps him gain clarity and confidence. The book addresses themes of identity, race, sexual orientation, and the struggles of adolescence, all told in a lyrical and emotive writing style that captures the reader's attention.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include discussions of homophobia, drug use, bullying, and themes surrounding familial abandonment.
From The Publisher:
Stonewall Book Award Winner * A Time Magazine Best YA Book Of All Time
A fierce coming-of-age verse novel about identity and the power of drag, from acclaimed poet and performer Dean Atta. Perfect for fans of Elizabeth Acevedo, Jason Reynolds, and Kacen Callender.
Michael is a mixed-race gay teen growing up in London. All his life, he's navigated what it means to be Greek-Cypriot and Jamaican-but never quite feeling Greek or Black enough.
As he gets older, Michael's coming out is only the start of learning who he is and where he fits in. When he discovers the Drag Society, he finally finds where he belongs-and the Black Flamingo is born.
Told with raw honesty, insight, and lyricism, this debut explores the layers of identity that make us who we are-and allow us to shine.
"In this uplifting coming-of-age novel told in accessible verse, Atta chronicles the growth and glory of Michael Angeli, a mixed-race kid from London, as he navigates his cultural identity as Cypriot and Jamaican as well as his emerging sexuality." (Publishers Weekly, "An Anti-Racist Children's and YA Reading List")
Ratings (15)
Incredible (5) | |
Loved It (3) | |
Liked It (5) | |
It Was OK (2) |
Reader Stats (32):
Read It (16) | |
Want To Read (9) | |
Not Interested (7) |
1 comment(s)
I HAVE NO WORDS. *chefs kiss*
What can you read after
The Black Flamingo?
About the Author:
Dean Atta's poems deal with themes of race, gender, and identity. He regularly performs across the UK and internationally and his work has been shortlisted for the Polari First Book Prize and appeared on MTV and BET. The Black Flamingo is his debut YA novel. You can find him online at www.deanatta.com.
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