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Flamboyants: The Queer Harlem Renaissance I Wish I'd Known
From the New York Times–bestselling author of All Boys Aren’t Blue comes an empowering set of essays about Black and Queer icons from the Harlem Renaissance.
In Flamboyants, George M. Johnson celebrates writers, performers, and activists from 1920s Black America whose sexualities have been obscured throughout history. Through 14 essays, Johnson reveals how American culture has been shaped by icons who are both Black and Queer – and whose stories deserve to be celebrated in their entirety.
Interspersed with personal narrative, powerful poetry, and illustrations by award-winning illustrator Charly Palmer, Flamboyants looks to the past for understanding as to how Black and Queer culture has defined the present and will continue to impact the future. With candid prose and an unflinching lens towards truth and hope, George M. Johnson brings young adult readers an inspiring collection of biographies that will encourage teens today to be unabashed in their layered identities.
In Flamboyants, George M. Johnson celebrates writers, performers, and activists from 1920s Black America whose sexualities have been obscured throughout history. Through 14 essays, Johnson reveals how American culture has been shaped by icons who are both Black and Queer – and whose stories deserve to be celebrated in their entirety.
Interspersed with personal narrative, powerful poetry, and illustrations by award-winning illustrator Charly Palmer, Flamboyants looks to the past for understanding as to how Black and Queer culture has defined the present and will continue to impact the future. With candid prose and an unflinching lens towards truth and hope, George M. Johnson brings young adult readers an inspiring collection of biographies that will encourage teens today to be unabashed in their layered identities.
144 pages, Hardcover
First published September 24, 2024
43 people are currently reading
3831 people want to read
About the author
George M. Johnson
9 books855 followersGeorge Matthew Johnson, more commonly known as George M. Johnson, is a queer Black American author, journalist, and activist. They are best known as the author of the memoir-manifesto All Boys Aren't Blue.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 212 reviews
July 10, 2024
This is a great introduction to queer artists and musicians involved in the Harlem Renaissance, and serves as a jumping off point for learning more about them. Written for teens, it feels like a personal invitation into something the author is passionate about. Johnson inserts relevant asides, juicy details, and places where he disagrees with things some authors said at the time. And yet, there is this honor and appreciation for what all of them added to Black and queer culture. It's entertaining, informative, and makes you want to go read more. I was familiar with some of the people in the book such as Langston Hughes and Zora Neale Hurston, but there are others I had never heard of and this work feels like an important part of keeping their history alive. And the portrait illustrations at the start of each biography are gorgeous! This is definitely worth checking out. I received a copy of this book for review from the publisher, all opinions are my own.
June 26, 2025
Pride Month 2025 #10
I had moved up ALL BOYS AREN'T BLUE due to it being banned. I loved it. Unsure why it was banned. Nothing was explicit. I promise you, as an unfortunate hetero, hetero shit is weirder.
So when this came out, I needed it. Still nonfic, but in this case tiny bios of queer folk from the Harlem Renaissance, a period I need to learn more about after falling in love with A LOVE SONG FOR RICKI WILDE.
🎧 Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Young Listeners
I had moved up ALL BOYS AREN'T BLUE due to it being banned. I loved it. Unsure why it was banned. Nothing was explicit. I promise you, as an unfortunate hetero, hetero shit is weirder.
So when this came out, I needed it. Still nonfic, but in this case tiny bios of queer folk from the Harlem Renaissance, a period I need to learn more about after falling in love with A LOVE SONG FOR RICKI WILDE.
🎧 Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Young Listeners
September 16, 2024
A historical essay collection that focuses on 14 queer Black figures from the Harlem Renaissance aimed at young adult readers. Johnson tells their stories in quick essays while adding their own thoughts on their lives and how their art impacted their own. While some of the information is interesting, the writing style is a little corny and surface. It feels formulaic and surface, which might work with younger readers who are brand new to these people, but for me it wasn’t enough.
Read
September 9, 2024**I do not rate NF books**
Thank you so much to Storygram Tours, Fierce Reads, George Johnson for a gifted copy of this book!
This book will be out September 24th, 2024.
First off, if you have not read George's book All Boys Aren't Blue, please read immediately. Thank you.
Flamboyants is a beautiful collection of mini biographies are queer influencers of the Harlem Renaissance. Some are common names and others are not as well known.
"Queer people know who they are and what they feel."
Johnson's writing made this digestible for all ages and nothing was too high level that made it feel like you were being hit with so much information at once.
I have heard a lot of the names mentioned in this book but there was history within each of the biographies that I didn't know before. I was tabbing different passages throughout the book. We often use the phrase History repeats itself but also sometimes things just don't change at all. And in hearing the stories that this icons went through, it mirrors what those in the black queer communities are still going through.
Stories like these are important to have in libraries and in classrooms. These artists made such an impact in the early 1900s that are important in 2024. Johnson made the comment about how a lot of the authors, artists, performers that are listed in here, did not receive their flowers until after they were no longer here. And often time they were left poor and alone and never could fully be themselves publicly. Also one thing I never thought about was how we often think about the "first black person" who did this but what about those that came after?
"I write for our time, to help those here today. But the real work is done with the kid I'll never know a hundred years from now. And the person can use their work to help a kid one hundred years after that."
In addition to the information about these queer influencers, it is paired with gorgeous art by illustrator Charly Palmer. The colors are vibrant and showcase each these icons beautifully!
I highly recommend this book if you are interested in learning about a flamboyant group of individuals during a revolutionary time in America who are still impacting people today.
PS - I recommend listening to music from the Harlem Renaissance while reading to add to the learning experience!
Thank you so much to Storygram Tours, Fierce Reads, George Johnson for a gifted copy of this book!
This book will be out September 24th, 2024.
First off, if you have not read George's book All Boys Aren't Blue, please read immediately. Thank you.
Flamboyants is a beautiful collection of mini biographies are queer influencers of the Harlem Renaissance. Some are common names and others are not as well known.
"Queer people know who they are and what they feel."
Johnson's writing made this digestible for all ages and nothing was too high level that made it feel like you were being hit with so much information at once.
I have heard a lot of the names mentioned in this book but there was history within each of the biographies that I didn't know before. I was tabbing different passages throughout the book. We often use the phrase History repeats itself but also sometimes things just don't change at all. And in hearing the stories that this icons went through, it mirrors what those in the black queer communities are still going through.
Stories like these are important to have in libraries and in classrooms. These artists made such an impact in the early 1900s that are important in 2024. Johnson made the comment about how a lot of the authors, artists, performers that are listed in here, did not receive their flowers until after they were no longer here. And often time they were left poor and alone and never could fully be themselves publicly. Also one thing I never thought about was how we often think about the "first black person" who did this but what about those that came after?
"I write for our time, to help those here today. But the real work is done with the kid I'll never know a hundred years from now. And the person can use their work to help a kid one hundred years after that."
In addition to the information about these queer influencers, it is paired with gorgeous art by illustrator Charly Palmer. The colors are vibrant and showcase each these icons beautifully!
I highly recommend this book if you are interested in learning about a flamboyant group of individuals during a revolutionary time in America who are still impacting people today.
PS - I recommend listening to music from the Harlem Renaissance while reading to add to the learning experience!
September 6, 2024
This audiobook was made available for me to listen to and review by George M. Johnson, Macmillan Audio, and NetGalley.
I highly encourage the reader to consume this as an audiobook. This is narrated by the author George M. Johnson with a lively jazz based musical soundtrack. Each chapter we are introduced to another queer Harlem Renaissance artist, and as they are introduced, music plays. If they were a singer its a song of theirs. Mr. Johnson's narration is powerful. The listener can hear the emotion in his voice. This is beautifully done, as much of an experience as it is a book.
I love the Harlem Renaissance. I've studied it since I was school-age. Like the author, Black History Month was my favorite time in school. I love history, and reading about historical Black folks always makes me happy. I'm also queer. I'm older than this author and grew up in a time none of this was discussed or accepted. So I love that resources like this exist for today's young readers. I remember when I found out Josephine Baker was bisexual. I held that detail close to my heart throughout my childhood.
This book also serves as a wonderful introduction to the artists of the Harlem Renaissance. I love that the author pulls no punches and calls in bad behaviors like internalized homophobia, colorism, classism, and misogynoir.
Even if you don't have a young person to suggest this to or purchase this for, consider giving it a listen as an adult. It's short, entertaining, and packed with important facts.
Thank you to George M. Johnson, Macmillan Audio, and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to and review this audiobook. All opinions and viewpoints expressed in this review are my own.
I highly encourage the reader to consume this as an audiobook. This is narrated by the author George M. Johnson with a lively jazz based musical soundtrack. Each chapter we are introduced to another queer Harlem Renaissance artist, and as they are introduced, music plays. If they were a singer its a song of theirs. Mr. Johnson's narration is powerful. The listener can hear the emotion in his voice. This is beautifully done, as much of an experience as it is a book.
I love the Harlem Renaissance. I've studied it since I was school-age. Like the author, Black History Month was my favorite time in school. I love history, and reading about historical Black folks always makes me happy. I'm also queer. I'm older than this author and grew up in a time none of this was discussed or accepted. So I love that resources like this exist for today's young readers. I remember when I found out Josephine Baker was bisexual. I held that detail close to my heart throughout my childhood.
This book also serves as a wonderful introduction to the artists of the Harlem Renaissance. I love that the author pulls no punches and calls in bad behaviors like internalized homophobia, colorism, classism, and misogynoir.
Even if you don't have a young person to suggest this to or purchase this for, consider giving it a listen as an adult. It's short, entertaining, and packed with important facts.
Thank you to George M. Johnson, Macmillan Audio, and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to and review this audiobook. All opinions and viewpoints expressed in this review are my own.
February 18, 2025
Such an awesome book that would be great for any reader. Even with a background in Queer studies, there were a few new-to-me names in here. Johnson is a wonderful author and narrator (as always) and I loved the care they put into this book to make sure these icons get the recognition they deserve.
January 30, 2025
“Look how far you’ve come!”…. No, look how long it took for me to get what was rightfully mine.”
I’m embarrassed I never really knew anything about the Harlem Renaissance. The author is so right when he said our black education goes from slavery straight to the civil rights movement. Well, what happened in between?? An incredible queer artistic movement is the answer. I had heard of a handful of the artist talked about but not many. What a joy this little book was. So insightful. Audiobook is narrated by the author, perfection, production included some amazing jazz included. Give it all the stars 🌟
I’m embarrassed I never really knew anything about the Harlem Renaissance. The author is so right when he said our black education goes from slavery straight to the civil rights movement. Well, what happened in between?? An incredible queer artistic movement is the answer. I had heard of a handful of the artist talked about but not many. What a joy this little book was. So insightful. Audiobook is narrated by the author, perfection, production included some amazing jazz included. Give it all the stars 🌟
May 7, 2025
making it my mission to learn about the history school didn’t teach me 💃🏿
this is a lovely collection of short bios on Black, queer icons of the 1920s, including some i know (langston hughes! zora neale hurston!) and most i didn’t!
it was so clear throughout this book how identity is so intersectional, and how limiting it is to not be able to live and love fully as one’s whole self. so many of these artists weren’t able to be vocal or public about their sexuality, yet still created such stunning work that has forever changed america. what a gift they were, and how tragic that the world didn’t fully see, celebrate, and champion them.
i’m grateful for the work of people like @iamgmjohnson shining more light on these incredible humans and their work and art. the way poetry is woven with johnson’s own thoughts alongside historical information made this so compelling and fascinating (and BEAUTIFUL, too).
i wish i had known this history sooner, but i’m so glad to be digging in now. 🖤
this is a lovely collection of short bios on Black, queer icons of the 1920s, including some i know (langston hughes! zora neale hurston!) and most i didn’t!
it was so clear throughout this book how identity is so intersectional, and how limiting it is to not be able to live and love fully as one’s whole self. so many of these artists weren’t able to be vocal or public about their sexuality, yet still created such stunning work that has forever changed america. what a gift they were, and how tragic that the world didn’t fully see, celebrate, and champion them.
i’m grateful for the work of people like @iamgmjohnson shining more light on these incredible humans and their work and art. the way poetry is woven with johnson’s own thoughts alongside historical information made this so compelling and fascinating (and BEAUTIFUL, too).
i wish i had known this history sooner, but i’m so glad to be digging in now. 🖤
Read
November 21, 2024I read a lot of fiction about queer Americans and as someone who isn’t American, I find it very interesting to learn more about their history. I could also see the cultural differences between the US, where race is deeply systemic, and France (where I’m from), where it isn’t. Racism exists everywhere, but in France, race isn’t a structural concept and racism is an offense punishable by law.
I was so happy to see Josephine Baker mentioned in this book! She’s the most French American woman ever and now rests in the Panthéon in Paris, which is the highest posthumous honor in France. She was an extraordinary woman who contributed so much to our country and the French people love her.
Also, the pictures in this book are GORGEOUS!!
I was so happy to see Josephine Baker mentioned in this book! She’s the most French American woman ever and now rests in the Panthéon in Paris, which is the highest posthumous honor in France. She was an extraordinary woman who contributed so much to our country and the French people love her.
Also, the pictures in this book are GORGEOUS!!
November 2, 2024
#NonFictionNovember24 - Book 2
A love letter.
A history lesson.
An art gallery.
A Renaissance.
George M. Johnson collected an amazing collection of people to bring to life the Harlem Renaissance. His writing is endearing and I dare you not to check out books from his recommended reading.
Charly Palmers double page illustrations add to the music of this book.
.....and tragically this will book lovingly curated, with beautiful art and illuminating poems will more than likely show up on multiple banned book lists.
So read this book....then recommend it to 5 of your friends.
A love letter.
A history lesson.
An art gallery.
A Renaissance.
George M. Johnson collected an amazing collection of people to bring to life the Harlem Renaissance. His writing is endearing and I dare you not to check out books from his recommended reading.
Charly Palmers double page illustrations add to the music of this book.
.....and tragically this will book lovingly curated, with beautiful art and illuminating poems will more than likely show up on multiple banned book lists.
So read this book....then recommend it to 5 of your friends.
February 12, 2025
I was excited when I first heard about the release of Flamboyants, and I was eager to read it when I checked it out of the library. I confess I was a bit disappointed when I started reading it though. I was under the impression that this was a collection of biographies about these queer icons of the Harlem Renaissance, and to be clear, it is NOT THAT. I'm a big fan of collected biographies as I think it's a great way to be introduced to a variety of historical figures within a certain area before delving into learning about those figures more in depth, and I was excited for that here, only to find that isn't what this book is. I feel like the way this book is marketed did it a disservice, because I honestly was not enjoying it to start with (particularly amplified by not receiving any new information that wasn't about the author of this book in the first chapter because I already know about Langston Hughes). I took a short break and returned to the book with my expectations appropriately readjusted and enjoyed the book.
What Flamboyants IS is a collection of personal essays by George M. Johnson about their relationship to the lives and works of the figures in the book, with biographical information included, and a few of their own personal poems interspersed throughout. The book shares basic biographical information, information about some of the work each of those figures did (with the occasional brief writing excerpt), and Johnson's experience learning about those figures. It also includes their thoughts on the lives and legacies of the figures, touching upon some of the moments that are questionable today as well. Their essays are thought-provoking introductions to the figures included that offer explorations of queer Black culture that tie the past to the present.
On some level, this is a book that very much is not for me. While I enjoy learning about Black history, I am white. Although I am queer, I am not in the targeted YA demographic. I think the latter is truly the biggest barrier for me, although the sheer number of times that Beyonce is mentioned in this book about a time many decades before her birth was also something of a barrier. I like Beyonce! I just think the number of times she specifically is mentioned in this book actively goes against what Johnson says in their chapter on Bessie Smith: "We pit ourselves against one another because we have been conditioned to accept the pyramid hierarchy of white supremacy as the structure for success--as if only one person can reach the top. That shit ain't never been true. There is room for us all." There are a couple of instances where they mention modern artists other than Beyonce, but she gets mentioned the most for sure, and more than any of the queer Black artists of today do.
Overall, this is a really solid introduction to the history of the queer side of the Harlem Renaissance told through personal essays that make that history feel as relevant as it deserves to. It's definitely worth checking out, just be sure to go into it with accurate expectations about the content: it's a collection of personal essays, not a collection of biographies.
What Flamboyants IS is a collection of personal essays by George M. Johnson about their relationship to the lives and works of the figures in the book, with biographical information included, and a few of their own personal poems interspersed throughout. The book shares basic biographical information, information about some of the work each of those figures did (with the occasional brief writing excerpt), and Johnson's experience learning about those figures. It also includes their thoughts on the lives and legacies of the figures, touching upon some of the moments that are questionable today as well. Their essays are thought-provoking introductions to the figures included that offer explorations of queer Black culture that tie the past to the present.
On some level, this is a book that very much is not for me. While I enjoy learning about Black history, I am white. Although I am queer, I am not in the targeted YA demographic. I think the latter is truly the biggest barrier for me, although the sheer number of times that Beyonce is mentioned in this book about a time many decades before her birth was also something of a barrier. I like Beyonce! I just think the number of times she specifically is mentioned in this book actively goes against what Johnson says in their chapter on Bessie Smith: "We pit ourselves against one another because we have been conditioned to accept the pyramid hierarchy of white supremacy as the structure for success--as if only one person can reach the top. That shit ain't never been true. There is room for us all." There are a couple of instances where they mention modern artists other than Beyonce, but she gets mentioned the most for sure, and more than any of the queer Black artists of today do.
Overall, this is a really solid introduction to the history of the queer side of the Harlem Renaissance told through personal essays that make that history feel as relevant as it deserves to. It's definitely worth checking out, just be sure to go into it with accurate expectations about the content: it's a collection of personal essays, not a collection of biographies.
November 2, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley; Macmillan Audio; Macmillan Young Listeners; Farrar, Strauss and Giroux; Charly Palmer (illustrator), and George M. Johnson for the opportunity to read and listen to the audiobook of Flamboyants in exchange for an honest review.
Flamboyants is a nonfiction about queer black people from the Harlem Renaissance. It highlights some iconic names discussed in history or English class, but does that mean they touched upon any of the queer aspects, especially in a high school class? No, probably not.
The audiobook is spectacular and is narrated by author George M. Johnson. It also adds some jazz and blues flare that you don't get in the physical book. An order of the audiobook should also provide a PDF. This is one of those books that would be better as the print version, as each portion has a lovely painted illustration by the phenomenal Charly Palmer (as the cover example).
This collection provides essays about key Harlem Renaissance artists (writers, singers, painters, etc.) who were queer. A couple people to note that one may recognize are Langston Hughes, Countee Cullen, and Zora Neale Hurston, to name a fraction. Johnson offers some inspired poetry that provides and eloquent beat as transitions between the essays. The essays are thorough and explore evidence of the queen lives that these people had, but were unable to "come out" because of the time period, as well as already being a minority based on skin color or gender.
One of the aspects of this novel that sticks with me the most is Johnson, who gives credit to who coined the term of "inviting in" instead of "coming out." This idea really resonated with me in the regard that I have many LGBTQ friends and students, and if they choose to share with me, I am then "invited in" to that part of themselves that not everybody gets to know. It's special and a term that needs to be used moving forward.
Johnson has shared a masterpiece of poetry and essays to share the histories and experiences of queer blacks from the Harlem Renaissance. This is a great book for the classroom and to even integrate information into lessons (depending on where you teach of course). This is a great book to make a gift of for GSA's for Black History Month too. This year we painted any queer black people we admired. Next year, I know I'll be painting George M. Johnson and buying a copy of this book for every student in the group.
Flamboyants is a nonfiction about queer black people from the Harlem Renaissance. It highlights some iconic names discussed in history or English class, but does that mean they touched upon any of the queer aspects, especially in a high school class? No, probably not.
The audiobook is spectacular and is narrated by author George M. Johnson. It also adds some jazz and blues flare that you don't get in the physical book. An order of the audiobook should also provide a PDF. This is one of those books that would be better as the print version, as each portion has a lovely painted illustration by the phenomenal Charly Palmer (as the cover example).
This collection provides essays about key Harlem Renaissance artists (writers, singers, painters, etc.) who were queer. A couple people to note that one may recognize are Langston Hughes, Countee Cullen, and Zora Neale Hurston, to name a fraction. Johnson offers some inspired poetry that provides and eloquent beat as transitions between the essays. The essays are thorough and explore evidence of the queen lives that these people had, but were unable to "come out" because of the time period, as well as already being a minority based on skin color or gender.
One of the aspects of this novel that sticks with me the most is Johnson, who gives credit to who coined the term of "inviting in" instead of "coming out." This idea really resonated with me in the regard that I have many LGBTQ friends and students, and if they choose to share with me, I am then "invited in" to that part of themselves that not everybody gets to know. It's special and a term that needs to be used moving forward.
Johnson has shared a masterpiece of poetry and essays to share the histories and experiences of queer blacks from the Harlem Renaissance. This is a great book for the classroom and to even integrate information into lessons (depending on where you teach of course). This is a great book to make a gift of for GSA's for Black History Month too. This year we painted any queer black people we admired. Next year, I know I'll be painting George M. Johnson and buying a copy of this book for every student in the group.
June 14, 2025
2.5 stars
Unfortunately this non-fiction just wasn't for me. I would say the best part of the book was the beautiful art by Charly Palmer.
This book isn't my first by this author. I read their memoir/manifesto a few years ago and had a good time with it, but this time around I really struggled with their writing. It felt so bland and casual for a book talking about such talented and passionate people. I also didn't like that they talked about themselves throughout the story, like I wanted to hear about these people George....you already had your book. I also have a crappy memory, so spending so little time with each of these people and them having to share their slot with George just made it so that I didn't spend enough time with any of them for my brain to grasp anything and I just know I'll forget all about them and this book.
Rather disappointing.
Unfortunately this non-fiction just wasn't for me. I would say the best part of the book was the beautiful art by Charly Palmer.
This book isn't my first by this author. I read their memoir/manifesto a few years ago and had a good time with it, but this time around I really struggled with their writing. It felt so bland and casual for a book talking about such talented and passionate people. I also didn't like that they talked about themselves throughout the story, like I wanted to hear about these people George....you already had your book. I also have a crappy memory, so spending so little time with each of these people and them having to share their slot with George just made it so that I didn't spend enough time with any of them for my brain to grasp anything and I just know I'll forget all about them and this book.
Rather disappointing.
November 30, 2025
3 stars
I thought the art in this book was so beautiful and stunning. George M. Johnson also incorporates a few poems that are sprinkled throughout. My biggest critique is that this is so surface-level. I recognize that this is for younger readers, but when I was thinking of my students, there weren't very many that I feel like would love this. It's very much an entry-level nonfiction text about Queer icons from the Harlem Renaissance. I think it's a beautiful piece of nonfiction visually, but I'm not sure if the historical information or context was as fleshed out or profound as it could have been.
I thought the art in this book was so beautiful and stunning. George M. Johnson also incorporates a few poems that are sprinkled throughout. My biggest critique is that this is so surface-level. I recognize that this is for younger readers, but when I was thinking of my students, there weren't very many that I feel like would love this. It's very much an entry-level nonfiction text about Queer icons from the Harlem Renaissance. I think it's a beautiful piece of nonfiction visually, but I'm not sure if the historical information or context was as fleshed out or profound as it could have been.
February 9, 2025
The amount of information I learnt from this short book was incredible.
January 22, 2025
A beautiful snap shot of some of the unsung heroes and talented black/queer folks that’s we’ve never heard of. I recommend reading the physical copy of this book because the art work and visuals go hand in hand with the stories. This book is really a start to you further doing your own education and research on each of these figures. I definitely have a few I need to further research.
September 2, 2024
If you would like to learn about black and queer artists who have had a lasting impact on culture, this is a great starting point. I learned so much, even about the familiar artists, from this one. George M. Johnson has a way with words that keeps you hooked from start to finish. Thank you to Libro.fm for the ALC!
May 2, 2025
This book is the spring Carroll Next Chapter pick. I learned quite a bit. Did you know singer Josephine Baker worked for the French resistance in during WWII? Love it!
September 21, 2024
"Black queer kids deserve to know they have heroes."
This was such a great read! It was so informative. As someone who is familiar with the Harlem Renaissance, (I'm not an expert, but I am familiar) I even learned a lot! There were several people mentioned that l've never heard of and several people that I do know, but that I had no idea were queer! And it's great to see knowledge about these Black, queer icons made accessible for young adults! I'd definitely recommend this to anyone wanting to learn more Black history! It was a very short book that didn't go too in depth abou each person's biography, however it definitely gives enough to make you want to research and learn even more. Also, the illustrations in this novel were absolutely beautiful! Straight up breathtaking! I'm obsessed!🥰
4.5 stars rounded up.
This was such a great read! It was so informative. As someone who is familiar with the Harlem Renaissance, (I'm not an expert, but I am familiar) I even learned a lot! There were several people mentioned that l've never heard of and several people that I do know, but that I had no idea were queer! And it's great to see knowledge about these Black, queer icons made accessible for young adults! I'd definitely recommend this to anyone wanting to learn more Black history! It was a very short book that didn't go too in depth abou each person's biography, however it definitely gives enough to make you want to research and learn even more. Also, the illustrations in this novel were absolutely beautiful! Straight up breathtaking! I'm obsessed!🥰
4.5 stars rounded up.
February 25, 2025
This was a fantastic book about Black, queer artists that were a part of the Harlem Renaissance, a rebirth of African-American arts, amidst the struggle for civil rights. The book is comprised of short mini-biographies of each artist, interspersed with the author's own comments and anecdotes.
Some of the names included in the book were familiar to me, especially Josephine Baker and Zora Neale Hurston, and I really loved getting these little snapshots into their lives in Harlem in the 1920s and how their art contributed to this rebirth of African-American arts.
Included in the book is a list of recommended reading, so that after you've had a little taste of their stories you can read more. And I can guarantee you that you will want to read more!
Johnson has done a great job of making each of the essays really engaging. Obviously in the 1920s, being queer, and even being Black, wasn't the safest thing, and the author recognizes this and shows real care in how each of these artists' lives are depicted.
A really great introduction to these amazing Black artists who changed the artistic landscape of New York and beyond.
Some of the names included in the book were familiar to me, especially Josephine Baker and Zora Neale Hurston, and I really loved getting these little snapshots into their lives in Harlem in the 1920s and how their art contributed to this rebirth of African-American arts.
Included in the book is a list of recommended reading, so that after you've had a little taste of their stories you can read more. And I can guarantee you that you will want to read more!
Johnson has done a great job of making each of the essays really engaging. Obviously in the 1920s, being queer, and even being Black, wasn't the safest thing, and the author recognizes this and shows real care in how each of these artists' lives are depicted.
A really great introduction to these amazing Black artists who changed the artistic landscape of New York and beyond.
November 10, 2024
LOVED this!!!
Telling the more layered, nuanced, at times heartbreaking, but still brilliant story of the Harlem Renaissance and many of the Black QUEER contributors of it who have often gone forgotten or had their queer identities hidden when speaking on them and their works.
I thought George crafted this perfectly and I learned so much.
Telling the more layered, nuanced, at times heartbreaking, but still brilliant story of the Harlem Renaissance and many of the Black QUEER contributors of it who have often gone forgotten or had their queer identities hidden when speaking on them and their works.
I thought George crafted this perfectly and I learned so much.
June 5, 2024
Filled with frank (and often funny, I adore Johnson’s voice) facts and observations and absolutely stunning art, I learned more about the Harlem Renaissance in these 150 pages than any classroom.
Beautiful and informative and will absolutely have a place on my shelf.
Beautiful and informative and will absolutely have a place on my shelf.
January 10, 2025
Short and pretty interesting, but overall left me wanting more from each section. The art is gorgeous!
I think this is a great topic to explore. Even as a Black queer person, I was unaware of how many Black queer icons there were providing works during the Harlem Renaissance. There were quite a few names I'd never heard before and I learned of some works I'd like to explore ASAP.
This is a collection of essays aimed for a YA audience. Johnson's intent is to get young kids interested in the untold stories of these queer creatives, but the writing is such that I feel it was geared towards anyone without knowledge of queer or Black culture. There were points where they explain terms like "passing", AAVE, colorism, etc - and as a Black queer adult, these were not things of which I needed a definition. Ultimately, I just accepted who I think the target is for this work and enjoyed it for what is was.
What this was... was a kinda shallow summarization of each figure. There's not a ton of in depth exploration and some figures were given much more in their segments than others. Whether that was because it was difficult to find info on them, I'm not sure. Johnson discusses their own connection to the figures in each essay and, overall, it just made me want more biographical information. But again, this is a collection of essays and I think, if the reader goes in with the awareness that this is more centering Johnson's connection with the figures' works (some with more connection than others), I think it's an enjoyable, short read for a YA audience.
For me personally, I was left wanting a lot more detail. Maybe, someday, Johnson will expand on this for a longer book intended for a more mature audience.
I think this is a great topic to explore. Even as a Black queer person, I was unaware of how many Black queer icons there were providing works during the Harlem Renaissance. There were quite a few names I'd never heard before and I learned of some works I'd like to explore ASAP.
This is a collection of essays aimed for a YA audience. Johnson's intent is to get young kids interested in the untold stories of these queer creatives, but the writing is such that I feel it was geared towards anyone without knowledge of queer or Black culture. There were points where they explain terms like "passing", AAVE, colorism, etc - and as a Black queer adult, these were not things of which I needed a definition. Ultimately, I just accepted who I think the target is for this work and enjoyed it for what is was.
What this was... was a kinda shallow summarization of each figure. There's not a ton of in depth exploration and some figures were given much more in their segments than others. Whether that was because it was difficult to find info on them, I'm not sure. Johnson discusses their own connection to the figures in each essay and, overall, it just made me want more biographical information. But again, this is a collection of essays and I think, if the reader goes in with the awareness that this is more centering Johnson's connection with the figures' works (some with more connection than others), I think it's an enjoyable, short read for a YA audience.
For me personally, I was left wanting a lot more detail. Maybe, someday, Johnson will expand on this for a longer book intended for a more mature audience.
September 25, 2024
Highlighting the overlooked stories of Black and Queer writers, performers, and activists from the 1920s, this book showcases how their contributions have shaped American culture. Through personal narratives, poetry, and illustrations, @iamgmjohnson offers an inspiring collection that encourages young adults to embrace their layered identities.
I have not been so excited to be number one as a library hold in a lonnnnng time. I read and absolutely loved All Boys Aren’t Blue so I was really looking forward to this book.
What I got was pure magic in book form. Quite a few of these individuals I had not heard of, and I was in awe of their stories. George intentionally made the essays short, encouraging you to go out and do research yourself about each person featured in the book. I cannot wait to keep learning more.
Truly, the audiobook is an absolute treat, hearing George along with the music was amazing. I am so excited to also have had a physical copy signed by both George AND the incredible cover artist @charlylpalmer - and I got to see them both chat in person tonight which was incredible. Can’t wait to share more!
100% recommend this. And go see George on tour if you can. They are so great and share amazing tidbits, stories from life, and are unapologetically themself which I adored so much.
I have not been so excited to be number one as a library hold in a lonnnnng time. I read and absolutely loved All Boys Aren’t Blue so I was really looking forward to this book.
What I got was pure magic in book form. Quite a few of these individuals I had not heard of, and I was in awe of their stories. George intentionally made the essays short, encouraging you to go out and do research yourself about each person featured in the book. I cannot wait to keep learning more.
Truly, the audiobook is an absolute treat, hearing George along with the music was amazing. I am so excited to also have had a physical copy signed by both George AND the incredible cover artist @charlylpalmer - and I got to see them both chat in person tonight which was incredible. Can’t wait to share more!
100% recommend this. And go see George on tour if you can. They are so great and share amazing tidbits, stories from life, and are unapologetically themself which I adored so much.
October 5, 2024
Thank you to George M Johnson and Pride Book Tours for a chance at reading this book.
I had enjoyed All Boys Aren’t Blue, so i was really excited to read a book about queer Black people, especially with the Harlem Renaissance being so short in my history lessons in school. This book is an introduction to names and faces that influenced the Black Queer Harlem renaissance. This was such a beautiful read! There was art, poetry and snippets of Johnson’s life along with introductions to the great geniuses of the Harlem Renaissance era. I cannot wait to look up more from these amazing creators that shaped music, writing and movies. Its one of those books where i wish i had it as a kid. I would have loved to know more about Queer Black people and their influence on the world, but i am glad that due to this book their stories arent lost. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants an easy to read memoir like book that is filled with tidbits and stories about Black Queer geniuses of the Harlem Renaissance.
I want to share with you one of my favorite passages from the book:
Through our stories told by the new negro, we thrive
From tongues of the youth our truth, we thrive
Flamboyantly our spirits remain,
A new generation’s rage lit by our flame
I had enjoyed All Boys Aren’t Blue, so i was really excited to read a book about queer Black people, especially with the Harlem Renaissance being so short in my history lessons in school. This book is an introduction to names and faces that influenced the Black Queer Harlem renaissance. This was such a beautiful read! There was art, poetry and snippets of Johnson’s life along with introductions to the great geniuses of the Harlem Renaissance era. I cannot wait to look up more from these amazing creators that shaped music, writing and movies. Its one of those books where i wish i had it as a kid. I would have loved to know more about Queer Black people and their influence on the world, but i am glad that due to this book their stories arent lost. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants an easy to read memoir like book that is filled with tidbits and stories about Black Queer geniuses of the Harlem Renaissance.
I want to share with you one of my favorite passages from the book:
Through our stories told by the new negro, we thrive
From tongues of the youth our truth, we thrive
Flamboyantly our spirits remain,
A new generation’s rage lit by our flame
April 9, 2025
There's a lot that's very cool about this book, especially Charly Palmer's beautiful paintings of each historical figure and the way George M. Johnson is able to weave their personal narrative and emotions into the biographical storytelling, connecting the figures to the present day and modern intersectional oppression. Ultimately, though, I left each mini biography feeling like I'd learned absolutely nothing about each figure's life and work. I realize there's only so much you can do in 5-6 pages aimed at young teens, and Johnson isn't pretending that their book is a comprehensive chronicle -- especially since they can't reprint any of the poetry or essays in full, much less include musical recordings, and since they deliberately leave room for their personal musings and political statements. But even as an adult reader, I found myself confused about what kind of art or thought some of these figures were even creating, and I imagine teen readers might be even more lost. I'm glad this book exists, and I hope it drives kids to follow up with some of the recommended reading cited in the last few pages, but ultimately it was a bit of a letdown.
September 10, 2024
Flamboyants by George M Johnson
Release Date: 9/24:/24
Format: audiobook
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
George M Johnson has such a way with storytelling and Flamboyants is no different. This book is a YA collection of essays about Black and Queer icons from the Harlem Renaissance and it is fantastic!
In this audiobook that is just shy of two and a half hours, I not only learned unknown information about artists I love like Ma Rainey & Bessie Smith, I also learned about other badasses I’ve never even heard of before like Gladys Bentley & Alain Locke (who I cannot wait to research further)!
I think the fact that Johnson even thought to write this book (and that it is YA and bite size but so impactful) is awesome. I will forever read anything they write and I really hope you all check this book out when it releases! Big thank you to @netgalley for the advanced listening copy in exchange for my honest opinion!
Release Date: 9/24:/24
Format: audiobook
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
George M Johnson has such a way with storytelling and Flamboyants is no different. This book is a YA collection of essays about Black and Queer icons from the Harlem Renaissance and it is fantastic!
In this audiobook that is just shy of two and a half hours, I not only learned unknown information about artists I love like Ma Rainey & Bessie Smith, I also learned about other badasses I’ve never even heard of before like Gladys Bentley & Alain Locke (who I cannot wait to research further)!
I think the fact that Johnson even thought to write this book (and that it is YA and bite size but so impactful) is awesome. I will forever read anything they write and I really hope you all check this book out when it releases! Big thank you to @netgalley for the advanced listening copy in exchange for my honest opinion!
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October 1, 20244.25 stars
This is a very enlightening read. It brings attention to many black icons from the Harlem Renaissance that were also, quite likely, queer. These are the stories we need to hear, but don't hear enough of them. These black and queer figures of entertainment history so often get overshadowed. This book highlights their real and meaningful stories. George M. Johnson also makes this a very personal story. They frequently talk about the intersection of black and queer identities and how these historical figures influenced and paved the way for them. I really enjoyed this, and the audiobook was especially good. George M. Johnson narrates, and each chapter has a musical intro that really sets the scene. This was an overall good read that was very informative, meaningful, and entertaining.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a very enlightening read. It brings attention to many black icons from the Harlem Renaissance that were also, quite likely, queer. These are the stories we need to hear, but don't hear enough of them. These black and queer figures of entertainment history so often get overshadowed. This book highlights their real and meaningful stories. George M. Johnson also makes this a very personal story. They frequently talk about the intersection of black and queer identities and how these historical figures influenced and paved the way for them. I really enjoyed this, and the audiobook was especially good. George M. Johnson narrates, and each chapter has a musical intro that really sets the scene. This was an overall good read that was very informative, meaningful, and entertaining.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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August 18, 2025FUN FACT (about me though, sorry to disappoint): When I was about to graduate during undergraduate I had no idea what to do after. Still don’t fully know. Anyway one thing I thought to do was to get a PhD. And I thought my work would largely encompass studying the art of Black folks, especially Black queer folks, and poetry from said Black artists, at the time. Maybe I still will who knows.
With that being said, it’s really refreshing to read this book to touch on how different Black folk in the Harlem Renaissance era navigated their Blackness and queerness, while also being pioneering artists and people in general, even if they didn’t know it at the time. I knew much of this information already, but it was nice to learn more. And George M. Johnson always has his own fresh perspective to add which I appreciate.
With that being said, it’s really refreshing to read this book to touch on how different Black folk in the Harlem Renaissance era navigated their Blackness and queerness, while also being pioneering artists and people in general, even if they didn’t know it at the time. I knew much of this information already, but it was nice to learn more. And George M. Johnson always has his own fresh perspective to add which I appreciate.
November 2, 2024
4.25⭐️ This book was an excellent pick for dia de los muertos/ all souls day. It was great to learn about communal ancestors that don’t get nearly the recognition they deserve. It was a nice journey to learn about these folks in an introductory manner. I truly look forward to doing more research now and listening to more of the music of that time. I also appreciate that it wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows. The history was told, both the good and the bad. I also appreciate the author bringing up the connections between how BIPOC Queers were silenced then and how they are still silenced now in 2024. I only wish it were longer and included more entertainers and artists.
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