All Boys Aren't Blue by George M Johnson, Johnson, George M

All Boys Aren't Blue

by George M Johnson and Johnson, George M

In a series of personal essays, prominent journalist and LGBTQIA+ activist George M. Johnson explores his childhood, adolescence, and college years in New Jersey and Virginia. From the memories of getting his teeth kicked out by bullies at age five, to going to flea markets with his loving grandmother, to his first sexual relationships, this young-adult memoir weaves together the trials and triumphs faced by Black queer boys.

Both a primer for teens eager to be allies as well as a reassuring testimony for young queer men of color, All Boys Aren't Blue covers topics such as gender identity, toxic masculinity, brotherhood, family, structural marginalization, consent, and Black joy. Johnson's emotionally frank style of writing will appeal directly to young adults.

Reviewed by inlibrisveritas on

5 of 5 stars

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I'm not sure I can accurately review this book. It's not that I don't have words to describe what I am feeling, merely that I might have too many words and it won't come out in any sort of coherent form. My journey with queerness is different from George's, as all journeys are different, but at the same time, there was so much that I have felt and dealt with on the page. Our coming into our own is certainly different, but seeing someone else describe the same thoughts and feelings they had growing up as I did has brought and unexpected healing of sorts.

I am so thankful that George shared their story with us.

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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 19 June, 2020: Finished reading
  • 19 June, 2020: Reviewed