Michael struggles with his identity in this impactful and poignant coming-of-age verse novel.
Very rarely do I read novels written in verse, but The Black Flamingo drew me into the story immediately. The focus on all of the moments, people, and societal norms that shape and inform our identity is relatable. While this search for self is universal, Michael’s particularly identity story is utterly compelling – is he black enough, Greek enough, gay enough to identify with any one group or is he something completely different?
Michael isn’t just searching for his identity, he is search for his tribe. He is looking for supportive and loving relationships, for the people who will accept him as he is and as he is to become. Another absolutely universal story, and yet the story utterly unique because of him. His bravery to try new things and to welcome new people in his life (whether they disappoint him or build him up) is something everyone needs to read.
tl;dr A story for everyone with universal themes of identity and acceptance along with unique themes of racial identity, gender non-conformity, and LGBTQ.