By Natalia
I’m forever thankful that George M. Johnson has written this (YA) memoir – his personal story. With amazing depth, vulnerability and raw honesty, GMJ writes about what it was like growing up as a queer Black man in the US. He touches upon heavy subjects such as bullying, masculinity, gender expectations, sexual abuse, police brutality, and having to play Abraham Lincoln in a school play.
He also asks serious questions about compulsory heterosexuality, gender performance, and exploring your sexuality.
I also thoroughly loved his stories about his family, especially about his Nanny. I can relate to having a grandmother that makes you feel seen.
I wasn’t necessarily the intended audience for this book, but while I was reading it I kept thinking about my own personal experience growing up queer and how I was often questioning my femininity.
