pickThis is the top banned book right now so I wanted to see what it was about. I liked the art style and it was easy to follow the story while adding some depth to the emotion with the use of flames and orange/red coloring. There‘s a lot of mature content (sex, masturbation, and suicide), but it‘s ultimately about finding your place in the world and that everyone matters.
I found this recording of an evening at Symphony Space with Justin Vivian Bond on Hoopla today. I became aware of Justin through the movie Shortbus. I have been interested in reading their memoir Tango, but haven't yet. This audio gave some insight into the contents of the book and their writing process.
pickJarrett J. Krosoczka said “this book will save lives” and I really think that says it best. What a phenomenal resource for teens and other readers who are experiencing extreme bullying and harassment, and contemplating self-harm or suicide. My heart hurts for the character of Aiden and for the author who had these experiences to base the book on.
pickThis #bannedbook was lovely and meaningful. In this thoughtful graphic novel, the author explores the experiences of a kid who sees themself as different and is struggling with the labels others are putting on them. The boy scout camp setting offers the perfect backdrop and brought back memories of when my son was immersed in the Scout community, luckily his seemed more inclusive than most. #BookspinBingo @TheAromaofBooks #bookriotchallenge
pickSoft pick for this Northanger Abbey graphic novel retelling but only because it was a bit more YA than I wanted. But I thought the gothic parallels were well done and highlighted the fear of being queer in rural Texas. Cade's Hispanic heritage also added to the feeling of being an outsider. Overall it was a great adaptation of characters and story for a modern time
#LGBTQ2023 @Kenyazero
pickWhen I saw this graphic novel was not only the 4th most banned and challenged book in the country in 2022, but also effectively banned in nearby Marietta this year, I had to read it for myself. Flamer tells the semi-autobiographical story of a Boy Scout struggling with homophobia, racism, and fatphobia during his last week of camp before high school. Moving, vividly told, and deeply compassionate, this is an important story to have on our shelves.
pickWowza. That was heavier than expected. Religious Boy Scout goes on a camping trip and finds himself feeling something new for another boy. The themes of bullying was so much. Aiden is bullied for his appearance, eyes & chubby. But also wonders his growing flame feelings for a boy. He can‘t like boys, that‘s a sin. Does that make him bad? Ending made me cry.
Half memoir; banned; Age: 14+
Tw: suicide, masturbation, bullying, boy jokes, almost nudity
pickI can‘t figure it out; why isn‘t Percival Everett a household name? This is the 4th I‘ve read. THIS title won the PEN USA 2006 award. His next up is getting TON of buzz… anyway, this was brutal and amazing.
Next up! Did I choose a book by a favorite author that was few pages? Yes, yes I did. Did I choose a pie recipe based on what fruit was on sale at the grocery store? Yes, once again, YES. #CaresPieShow #iLovePie
