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A review by katykelly
The Black Flamingo by
5.0
Uplifting and illuminating coming-of-age LGBTQ tale.
It's a genre I don't tend to gravitate towards, so when I do read stories of gay teens I usually find something revealing that makes me appreciate the experience of those whose lives are different from my own - it's certainly vital to be taken outside your comfort zone and see the world through the eyes and experiences of others.
And Michael is rather a joy to share a few hours with. From his early years loving his Barbie and kissing other boys innocently at parties, to the first crushes and adolescent yearnings, to University and sexual experiences, we are taken through an adolescence of a young gay man who knows who and what he is and is seeking his future path and identity, the same as any teenager.
With family and friends, with relationships that fail or falter, with access to his internal monologue, it's a personal voyage with a young man you really want to succeed in life, to find love and acceptance. I was reminded of 'Everybody's Talking about Jamie' at times, the musical theatre production, for the uplifting moments, the gradual move the protagonist makes towards his likely path.
I loved the fact that the author narrated this for Audible, his voice really brought Michael to life. The audiobook kept me listening, even when I needed to stop for other things, I just wanted to stay with the story and find out what was next for Michael. Readers will enjoy listening to this as well as following on paper.
I learnt a lot about the experience of a gay teen, and Michael has the added element of being Cypriot-Jamaican as well, which was mentioned in the story. The University scenes reminded me of my own first days as a Fresher, the ending pitched just right for a warming conclusion.
A great choice for secondary school libraries and classrooms, an honest portrayal with heart.
For ages 13 and above.
With thanks to Nudge Books for providing a sample Audible copy.
It's a genre I don't tend to gravitate towards, so when I do read stories of gay teens I usually find something revealing that makes me appreciate the experience of those whose lives are different from my own - it's certainly vital to be taken outside your comfort zone and see the world through the eyes and experiences of others.
And Michael is rather a joy to share a few hours with. From his early years loving his Barbie and kissing other boys innocently at parties, to the first crushes and adolescent yearnings, to University and sexual experiences, we are taken through an adolescence of a young gay man who knows who and what he is and is seeking his future path and identity, the same as any teenager.
With family and friends, with relationships that fail or falter, with access to his internal monologue, it's a personal voyage with a young man you really want to succeed in life, to find love and acceptance. I was reminded of 'Everybody's Talking about Jamie' at times, the musical theatre production, for the uplifting moments, the gradual move the protagonist makes towards his likely path.
I loved the fact that the author narrated this for Audible, his voice really brought Michael to life. The audiobook kept me listening, even when I needed to stop for other things, I just wanted to stay with the story and find out what was next for Michael. Readers will enjoy listening to this as well as following on paper.
I learnt a lot about the experience of a gay teen, and Michael has the added element of being Cypriot-Jamaican as well, which was mentioned in the story. The University scenes reminded me of my own first days as a Fresher, the ending pitched just right for a warming conclusion.
A great choice for secondary school libraries and classrooms, an honest portrayal with heart.
For ages 13 and above.
With thanks to Nudge Books for providing a sample Audible copy.