Book Review | The Black Flamingo
Title: The Black Flamingo Author: Dean Atta Publisher: Hodder Children's Books Published: August 2019 Genre: YA, Poetry, LGBTQ+, Rating: 5/5 stars
I masquerade in makeup and feathers and I am applauded.
A boy comes to terms with his identity as a mixed-race gay teen – then at university he finds his wings as a drag artist, The Black Flamingo. A bold story about the power of embracing your uniqueness. Sometimes, we need to take charge, to stand up wearing pink feathers – to show ourselves to the world in bold colour. -Goodreads
I received a proof copy of this novel from Hachette Children’s Books in return for an honest review. I have had this novel on my shelf for a long time, and I have no idea why I hadn’t picked it up before now!
I loved this book!! It was absolutely amazing! I almost cannot write this review, I just don’t know how to put my thoughts down!
This book tells the story of Michael a black boy growing up in London and coming to terms with his sexuality. It is told through prose, and it is so lyrical and emotive and the writing style is perfect.
I think this novel is so vitally important to have published in kids books. I can’t wait to head back into the bookshop and get this book into readers hands!!
The verse of this novel is so beautiful and moving to read and it was so easily read and so easy to get fully absorbed into. I haven’t read many books written in prose, but the ones I have read I have really enjoyed, the format is so emotive and imaginative, especially in YA.
Michael is such a well developed character, and we get to know him intimately as we follow him from childhood to University. I cared for Michael so much and I related to his worries and struggles at Uni to find where he belonged. I just wanted him to be happy and content so much! But most importantly, Black children and young adults can see themselves and relate to this novel and Michael within it.
The ending of this novel was wonderful. Michael performing as The Black Flamingo was so powerful and moving and I felt so emotional while reading his spoken word poem.
Despite this terrible review I loved The Black Flamingo so much! I cannot recommend it enough, and I can’t wait until I can recommend it to everyone in the shop!!
Thank you for reading!
You can buy the book from Waterstones here
