The Black Flamingo is just as unique as its title. The characters are just as complex and colorful as the book cover. The plot is just as rhythmic as the prose writing style.

June was the month of pride, and I don’t believe I have read a book that does more justice to the LGBTQ community than this one. Mike proves to be an expressive narrator, willing to take his audience through his tumultuous journey to finding his identity. His mixed race leads him to be into the storm of social criticism, religious criticism, ridicule, and stereotypes. After coming out of the closet, these jeers are heightened.

His partner in crime, Daisy, seems to be the only one that understands. She is the quiet bookworm, who enjoys maintaining a tight knit group of friends. But Daisy is far from perfect. As a reader, I was unsure about Daisy’s character. It is clear that she made a major impact in Mike’s life but she suddenly disappears when the pair moves on to collegiate schooling. I like to think of Daisy as one of those friends that meant a lot to us at the time, but we eventually grew out of. 

When Mike goes to college he is finally able to explore his identity and immerse in drag culture. Mike joins Drag Soc, where he is taught the inner working of drag and how to be a drag king/queen. He finds new friends that are supportive of him, and others that prove there continues to be hate in this world. Eventually, he develops an understanding of who he is as a person and is able to embrace this new self. 

This is the first Young Adult poetry style book that I have read, and I was hesitant that it wasn’t going to be able to tell a story through so few words. I was incredibly wrong. The poems were so diverse, and yet complemented each other so well. Each poem played a vital role in Mike’s journey and the bigger themes this book addresses: identity and acceptance. I loved how there were variations in the style of poetry; some had dialogue and another was created in the shape of an egg. Nevertheless, each poem packed a punch of raw emotion, that in itself told the story.

Focusing on our narrator, the resilience shown by Mike, despite adversity, is remarkable. This book is not only a testament to the LGBTQ community, but also those who struggle with their race. Mike is part Greek and part Jamaican, which leads him to feel confused and out-of-place in either group. In college he is unable to fit into either community, but finds a home in drag. You could say his drag performance reveals an uncomplicated and pure version of Mike that doesn’t require any labels.

The message in this book is unique, powerful, and lasting. To prosper as a community we must heed Atta’s words, and put them into practice. Learning to accept those that are not cookie cutter in race or sexuality. To ensure people are more comfortable exploring their identity and finding their role in society.