Reviews with content warning for Racism - The Black Flamingo

This book was a quick read for me and I enjoyed it! The characters were compelling, the topics covered were important, and there was some beautiful writing. Overall, this was a solid novel in verse.

"I come from my own pen but I see
people torn apart like paper, each a story
or poem that never made it into a book."

"Despair is love
for what isn't
here anymore,
or never was."

Content Warnings

thebookpaiges's review against another edition

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emotional funny hopeful inspiring fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

Content Warnings

thebookishnerd_'s review

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emotional inspiring reflective fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

The Black Flamingo is a coming-of-age story about Michael, a black queer teen, growing up and exploring and discovering his identity. He discovers the art of drag in university and finds a community to call home.

I loved this book, from beginning to end. I have a soft spot for books written in verse and this one did not disappoint. The writing style was beautiful and emotional. It was great to see the language subtly mature as Michael grew up. Each character felt distinct with their own voice and I just fell in love with Michael and Daisy's friendship.

This book addresses many issues from racism, homophobia (both internal and external), fetishization, bullying, forced gender roles, absent parents and so much more. Each issue shows its effects on characters in such a true-to-life way, despite the writing style.

This book packs an emotional punch. Michael's story will pull at your heartstrings. I definitely recommend this book. Especially to those looking for a short yet impactful read.

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blvckboyinparis's review against another edition

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challenging emotional funny hopeful inspiring reflective medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

since i have come out i have been reading more novels about queer main characters. i've read this before but it hits differently now. it's more in your face but in a good way. michael is every bit the black flamingo he performs on stage.

artist. poet. intellectual. lover. son. friend. brother. gay. black. greek-cypriot. beautiful.

so very, very beautiful.

Content Warnings

ree_the_owlgirl's review

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inspiring reflective fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Content Warnings

mayareadsxo's review against another edition

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emotional inspiring lighthearted reflective sad fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

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