A review by taelights
The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta

emotional hopeful reflective fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.5

First of all, I listened to this on audiobook and there was just something so powerful about the author himself reading it himself. But also I'm so tempted to revisit this book in a physical copy eventually just to see how the expierence differs because I definitely wouldn't mind reading this book again. 

I've never read a book in verse before and I wasn't sure how I'd like it because I've never been super into poetry, but I loved this one so much. The writing style was absolutely beautiful and so enjoyable to me. 

The book itself was raw and emotional, exploring important topics of self acceptance, growing into your true self, and dealing with both homophobia and racism. A lot of the author's words were just very true and sincere and hit so hard. It had just a lot of important messages within the story. 

I thought Michael was a fantastic character, very intriguing, and he felt so real to me. I loved getting to read his story and watch him grow. 

My only issue with the book is I wish it was longer, I felt like a lot of areas could have been explored more so I really wish some sections were more fleshed out and explored deeper. 

Overall this was a very easy and fast read that I would highly recommend. It was very emotional and powerful and it's a story that deserves to be heard. 
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