It feels insufficient to call this merely a book. Combine the audiobook and the actual physical book (which I got from my library), and it becomes an experience of awe and inspiration.

Acclaimed author George M. Johnson (All Boys Aren't Blue) wrote this collection to educate young adults (and adults like me!) about Black queer artists from the Harlem Renaissance. In the intro, he discusses how these artists have been doubly ignored because of their identities and race and how he wants to shine a light on them since they've been ignored by traditional curricula.

Short-and-sweet, each chapter highlights a different person, from Josephine Baker to Langston Hughes to Aliane Locke to Zora Neale Hurston. Paired with Charly Parker's stunning images, the actual physical book is informative, enlightening, and visually stunning. If you listen to the audio, it's an extra treat. George reads it himself and brings passion and verve to the narration.

I really liked this book! George doesn't hold back when it comes to calling out history and society for muting the talent and achievements of these people. He also takes care to discuss the nuance of how even some of these "flamboyants" weren't accepting of certain genders or race (Josphine Baker, although bisexual, treated her gay son differently than the rest of her children).

I think this would make a great addition to any high school history class to offer a often overlooked group of talented, inspiring artists.