The Black Flamingo
The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta is a fierce coming-of-age verse novel published by HarperCollinsPublishers in 2020. This 403-page book is written in English and follows Michael, a mixed-race gay teen growing up in London, as he navigates his complex identity shaped by his Greek-Cypriot and Jamaican heritage. The narrative explores his journey of self-discovery, highlighting the challenges he faces in feeling fully accepted within both his cultural backgrounds.
Readers will find a poignant exploration of identity and belonging as Michael’s coming out leads him to the Drag Society, where he finally embraces who he is and becomes the Black Flamingo. The novel delves into themes of diversity, multiculturalism, and LGBTQ experiences, all presented with raw honesty and lyricism. This edition invites readers to reflect on the layers of identity that contribute to personal growth and acceptance.
Official synopsis 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”)
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