A review by jasthebooklover4
The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta

emotional inspiring 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
I thought it was a great and powerful read. The Black Flamingo is written in prose. In it we follow Micheal from a young age as a mixed race gay teen. Then when he goes to university trying to find where he belongs, he learns how to spread his wings as a Drag artist.  

I really like Micheal's character and reading about his life/ journey. This is a coming of age story with lots of topics and themes being discussed. This was a deep book, but there were some sweet and touching moments.

Micheal is a half Jamaican and half Greek-Cyprian, living in England. Throughout the novel he doesn't feel like he is Black or Greek enough. He also deals with struggles with racism and having people stereotype him. We also see him coming out, figuring out his identity, and finding his place in the drag society where he could be the confident and fierce person he is. The Black Flamingo also have themes of family, friendship, and love. 
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