Reviews tagging 'Homophobia'

All Boys Aren't Blue by George M. Johnson

377 reviews

wanderlust_romance's review against another edition

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emotional informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

5.0

All Boys Aren’t Blue is filled with bravery, unflinching honesty, and emotional vulnerability. This was written as a memoir for young adult audiences-specifically those who are Black and queer. Washington is such a compelling storyteller that from the very first essay I was engaged and educated by the way they relayed their lived experiences and reflections. This book doesn’t shy away from discussing challenging topics related to comp-het, gender, performance, shame, and racial identity. And at the same time, Washington relays the unconditionally supportive and loving family they had growing up that helped enable these honest reflections. Everything about this was excellent.

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alica2's review against another edition

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challenging emotional hopeful informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

5.0

Very poignant memoir...I was really touched by the author's vulnerability in sharing so much of themself with the world, but also felt many times where the book served as a mirror to reflect on my own self as well. I loved how much of the book focused on the author's family and all the ways their various family members supported them. It was such an honest depiction of what it was like for them growing up Black and queer, both the challenges and the joy in being able to live authentically, and is definitely a book that will stick with me for a long time.

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kberman20's review against another edition

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medium-paced

4.0

Was a good book on being black and queer. I’m white but I relate to the queer aspect. I also felt afraid (still am) to live my truth. His stories are relatable and written from the heart. Would probably be a 5 if he talked less about grandma/nanny but I understand that she’s an important part of his story. 

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bashsbooks's review against another edition

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informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

4.25

Young adult memoirs are a fickle and difficult genre. It's kind of niche, and YA in general is subject to what adults think teens want, not what teens actually want. (Not that I know what teens want, either, but I can postulate about some things they might not want.) I think for the most part, Johnson recalls being a teen better than most adults, and he's franker with teens than most adults are willing to be. I respect this honesty and directness from him, I like that All Boys Aren't Blue tackles CSA, sexuality, gender, abuse, racism, homophobia, death, and toxic masculinity without shying away from them, and with empathy and nuance without making excuses for abusers. At times, he does come off a little stiff and lecturey, but he's above average for the genre. And his anecdotes are well-chosen and well-connected.

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bseigel's review against another edition

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emotional funny informative inspiring reflective fast-paced

4.5


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ellius's review against another edition

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challenging emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring sad fast-paced

5.0

Now I’m gonna be upfront. I hate memoirs. I never thought I would like one let alone love one. But this book will always hold a special place in my heart.

This book is educational and thorough. It’s valuable and heartfelt. It. Shouldn’t. Be. Banned.

This book covers topics, issues and education in an upfront and inspiring way. It’s obviously written for young adults and it uses some writing techniques to show that. It’s light hearted and extremely valuable and i recommend everyone read it. 

10/10. Check it out.

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kalebd_2125's review against another edition

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dark emotional funny hopeful informative reflective sad tense medium-paced

5.0


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shaynicole's review against another edition

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fast-paced

3.5


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pizzaisjesus98's review against another edition

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adventurous emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

3.75

A wonderful and important book that can open eyes and hearts

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brookes95's review against another edition

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challenging emotional hopeful informative lighthearted reflective sad

5.0


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