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Desert Queen
As a young boy, Harish hears and feels the music of the Thar Desert, all around “When the khamaicha thrums and the dholak drums and the boy’s feet tap and his fingers sway … it is softly … softly, so no one sees.”
Harish knows the line between what men and women should want, and he keeps it in sight. But when Harish’s family suffers loss, he finds himself in charge of two sisters, in charge of making money. And so he begins to dance publicly, in the bright colors and kohl rimmed eyes of the god Krishna … and in the rhythm-making anklets and the swirling costumes of the female Rajasthani dancers he so admired. A new persona is born.
The path of Queen Harish to stardom is not without trial, but it is one of bravery and fearlessness. A story of triumph and inspiration. Something to sing about out loudly, proudly, so everyone can hear.
Harish knows the line between what men and women should want, and he keeps it in sight. But when Harish’s family suffers loss, he finds himself in charge of two sisters, in charge of making money. And so he begins to dance publicly, in the bright colors and kohl rimmed eyes of the god Krishna … and in the rhythm-making anklets and the swirling costumes of the female Rajasthani dancers he so admired. A new persona is born.
The path of Queen Harish to stardom is not without trial, but it is one of bravery and fearlessness. A story of triumph and inspiration. Something to sing about out loudly, proudly, so everyone can hear.
Audible Audio
Published October 24, 2023
4 people are currently reading
184 people want to read
About the author
Jyoti Rajan Gopal
10 books26 followersJyoti Rajan Gopal is a writer, mom and Kindergarten teacher. Growing up, she lived in Thailand, Indonesia, Myanmar, India and China. She now lives in New York, in a quirky old Victorian in Yonkers, with her husband, where they raised their two daughters. Her favorite place in the house is the wrap around porch where she loves to gather with family or friends, read, write and drink coffee.
Jyoti writes stories that speak to her heart, that reflect her multiple identities, that she wishes her daughters had growing up, that she wishes her students had now.
When not writing or teaching, she loves to read - a lot! - work in her garden, dance and explore the many New York State Park trails.
Jyoti writes stories that speak to her heart, that reflect her multiple identities, that she wishes her daughters had growing up, that she wishes her students had now.
When not writing or teaching, she loves to read - a lot! - work in her garden, dance and explore the many New York State Park trails.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
April 14, 2024
Full five stars for the breathtakingly mesmerizing illustrations. Loved it. Thanks Frida for the recommendation. ❤️
April 15, 2024
In this concise yet powerful book, the reader is invited into the vibrant world of Queen Harish, a drag performer whose unwavering passion for his art triumphs over adversity.
Authored by Jyoti Rajan Gopal, the narrative is crafted with a lyrical grace that captures the essence of Queen Harish's journey. Complementing the text, Svabhu Kohli's illustrations enthral and mesmerize, weaving a visual tapestry that echoes the rich cultural tapestry of Jaisalmer. Each page bursts with intricate details, patterns, and a kaleidoscope of colors that pay homage to this historic city's artistic legacy.
The book is not just a biography but an immersive experience, celebrating the spirit of an individual and the heritage that shapes him. ❤️
Authored by Jyoti Rajan Gopal, the narrative is crafted with a lyrical grace that captures the essence of Queen Harish's journey. Complementing the text, Svabhu Kohli's illustrations enthral and mesmerize, weaving a visual tapestry that echoes the rich cultural tapestry of Jaisalmer. Each page bursts with intricate details, patterns, and a kaleidoscope of colors that pay homage to this historic city's artistic legacy.
The book is not just a biography but an immersive experience, celebrating the spirit of an individual and the heritage that shapes him. ❤️
April 13, 2024
It was one of the most captivating and stunning graphic novel biography that beautifully chronicles the extraordinary life of Queen Harish.
I was so enamored with the artwork that I wished the book wouldn't end.
The illustrations by Svabhu Kohli are breathtaking, using kohl-black lines and vibrant colors to bring Harish's story to life. Kohli's artwork beautifully complements Gopal's words, creating a visually stunning book that is a joy to read and listen to.
Neil Shah's audiobook narration adds an extra layer of depth to the story, enhancing the book's allure. Shah skillfully conveys Harish's emotions and challenges, creating a truly immersive and impactful listening experience.
The illustrations seamlessly complement the text, enriching the storytelling experience and enveloping readers in Rajasthan's vibrant cultural tapestry.
Overall, "Desert Queen" is a powerful and moving book that celebrates the life of a remarkable individual. Gopal's lyrical writing, Kohli's mind-blowing and phenomenal illustrations and Shah's captivating narration combine to create an unforgettable reading experience.
It's a short, easy-to-read story that should definitely be read.
Thanks Frida for recommending this gem of a book!!!! ❤
I was so enamored with the artwork that I wished the book wouldn't end.
The illustrations by Svabhu Kohli are breathtaking, using kohl-black lines and vibrant colors to bring Harish's story to life. Kohli's artwork beautifully complements Gopal's words, creating a visually stunning book that is a joy to read and listen to.
Neil Shah's audiobook narration adds an extra layer of depth to the story, enhancing the book's allure. Shah skillfully conveys Harish's emotions and challenges, creating a truly immersive and impactful listening experience.
The illustrations seamlessly complement the text, enriching the storytelling experience and enveloping readers in Rajasthan's vibrant cultural tapestry.
Overall, "Desert Queen" is a powerful and moving book that celebrates the life of a remarkable individual. Gopal's lyrical writing, Kohli's mind-blowing and phenomenal illustrations and Shah's captivating narration combine to create an unforgettable reading experience.
It's a short, easy-to-read story that should definitely be read.
Thanks Frida for recommending this gem of a book!!!! ❤
April 16, 2024
Artistically brilliant, socially powerful and hard-hitting.
May 31, 2023
A stunningly-illustrated, lyrical story inspired by a young man who longed to inhabit the folkdance world of the women of his Rajasthani culture. Initially derided for his cross-dressing and dancing, he came to earn the respect and admiration of many. A wonderful story of perseverance and triumph in the face of ridicule and bias. The tone of the narrative is intense and mesmerizing, just like the dance. Beautifully written!
January 17, 2024
One of the most beautiful picture books I've ever read, this lyrical story took my breath away. The gorgeous art and stunning writing bring rhythm, emotionality, tenderness, and a warmth that jumps off the page and dances, like the inspiring Queen Harish herself.
October 20, 2023
This book is captivating. After I finished reading, I read it again. Whew.
June 5, 2023
This picture book biography reads like poetry and unfolds like a dance. It is beautifully done, from the powerful text to the mesmerizing art to the thoughtful design. An important story that honors the incredible Rajasthani drag performer Queen Harish, this book is “shining, strong, proud” in every way.
June 6, 2023
Inspired by drag performer Queen Harish, this story captivates with lyrical, poetic text by Gopal and intricate illustrations in rich colors by Kohli. Desert Queen will resonate with kids who are dancers and performers, as well as those who struggle to be their true, authentic selves. All of Gopal's work shines, and I'm thrilled to see this latest picture book from a talented author!
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June 1, 2023This book is a beautiful tribute to drag performer Queen Harish and a testament to being true to one’s authentic self. Jyoti Rajan Gopal’s lyrical text and Svabhu Kohli’s jewel-toned illustrations form a beautiful duet.
November 16, 2023
Gorgeous book from start to finish. Those illustrations had me spellbound, truly.
March 10, 2024
Once again, the Book Riot Read Harder Challenge encourages me to stretch my reading boundaries. Prior to picking up Desert Queen, I had not heard of Queen Harish. Upon cracking open the book, my eyes popped with the kaleidoscope art on the end papers. And, as I turned each page, I was in awe over the colorful, dynamic, vibrant artwork. On reading the poetry conveying the broad strokes of Queen Harish’s life and career, it was clear that the partnership of this author and illustrator was perfection. With each turn of the page, I felt like I was swishing and swaying along with Queen Harish as she danced her way into her fans’ hearts.
Book includes an author’s note, artist’s note, and a brief biographical blurb about Queen Harish.
Book includes an author’s note, artist’s note, and a brief biographical blurb about Queen Harish.
July 27, 2025
Once there was a boy whose soul was full of music and dance. When his parents died, he found a way to bring this beauty to life, even though many around him thought that boys should not wear dresses.
I'm oversimplifying this book, but honestly, it's impossible to match the beautiful way this book is written and illustrated, so you really should just read it for yourself. The artwork is truly stunning, and the lyricism of the text is brilliant.
I'm oversimplifying this book, but honestly, it's impossible to match the beautiful way this book is written and illustrated, so you really should just read it for yourself. The artwork is truly stunning, and the lyricism of the text is brilliant.
May 24, 2025
Can he?
Dare he?
Not softly.
Not quietly.
But for all to see.
With layered illustrations in jewel tones, Gopal and Kohli pay a striking tribute to Queen Harish, a real Indian drag performer.
Desert Queen is a story about how living authentically and successfully can go hand-in-hand, even though sometimes doing both at once instead of picking one or the other takes bravery and risk. It is about finding yourself after loss, and becoming more than your past self ever would have dreamed was possible.
Dare he?
Not softly.
Not quietly.
But for all to see.
With layered illustrations in jewel tones, Gopal and Kohli pay a striking tribute to Queen Harish, a real Indian drag performer.
Desert Queen is a story about how living authentically and successfully can go hand-in-hand, even though sometimes doing both at once instead of picking one or the other takes bravery and risk. It is about finding yourself after loss, and becoming more than your past self ever would have dreamed was possible.
June 3, 2023
From the minute you open Desert Queen, beautifully written by Jyoti Gopal and illustrated by Svabhu Kholi, you are drawn into a life of colors, sounds, and gorgeous movements of a dance. The story focuses on the drag performer, Queen Harish, and the longing to be part of something society deems wrong. Without giving too much away, I will just say that Queen Harish is ultimately respected and admired, but it was a long road. The lyrically written text paired with the beautiful art is as lovely and uplifting as the dance itself. I highly recommend it.
May 24, 2024
YMA 2024 Stonewall honor book for children’s literature
December 25, 2025
what is gender if not a performance?
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January 11, 2024I read this to my partner -- who hated the text and loved the illustrations.
I read it again myself some weeks later and coasted on vibes and enjoyed it a lot more that way. When we first read it, we paused at each page and got caught up in trying to figure out exactly what was happening.
The text is largely evocative glimpses at scenes, which often make it hard to figure out what exactly is going on (e.g., once Harish starts dancing at night and gets praised and paid at night but jeered during the day, we wondered what was going on* -- was it the same people who praised him at night who jeered him during the day? was he still dressing effeminately during the day and that's why people were jeering him? did this night dancing involve some sort of sex work we were eliding in a children's book?).
There's also some weird language usage. For example: Early on, we read that the boy's feet tap and fingers sway "softly... softly, so no one sees," which reasonably makes sense, but is followed on the next page by: "When images dance across the screen / to a beat that shimmers and bounces, / spins and turns unfold in his mind, / step by step / but quietly... quietly, so no one sees." But, doing things in your mind is literally something it's impossible for anyone else to see. And it feels weird to use "quietly," which is a volume word (as "softly" also can be), to indicate other people not being able to see. Like, it makes some sense, but also...
The book jacket asserts that the text mimics the kinds of music Harish used, and I can see that, but I think one still could have accomplished that with better quality text in places.
I wished for a glossary. Lots of Hindi (?) words show up in the text without explanation. The reader can generally infer what they are (like "Thumris and ragas soar in his mind" is accompanied by an illustration showing some stringed instruments -- except no, wait, I looked them up and they're more like kinds of music/songs ... which I guess I was supposed to get from the following lines: "Rhythms pulse through his body. / The music sings clarion clear in his heart.") -- but lines like "A ghagra, mirrored and flowing. / A choli, brightly patterned" it would be helpful to be able to actually visualize that oh, a ghagra is a skirt and a choli is a blouse.
*Via his Wiki, I found his last interview, in which he says:
Speaking of his Wiki, there's some stuff in there that I would have loved to have had included.
The Artist's Note says, "All of the details, patterns, and motifs that appear in the art are rooted in and inspired by Jaisalmer's cultural heritage; that includes miniature paintings, Jain temple architecture, details of Jaisalmer fort, textiles, frescos, and murals of the city."
I read it again myself some weeks later and coasted on vibes and enjoyed it a lot more that way. When we first read it, we paused at each page and got caught up in trying to figure out exactly what was happening.
The text is largely evocative glimpses at scenes, which often make it hard to figure out what exactly is going on (e.g., once Harish starts dancing at night and gets praised and paid at night but jeered during the day, we wondered what was going on* -- was it the same people who praised him at night who jeered him during the day? was he still dressing effeminately during the day and that's why people were jeering him? did this night dancing involve some sort of sex work we were eliding in a children's book?).
There's also some weird language usage. For example: Early on, we read that the boy's feet tap and fingers sway "softly... softly, so no one sees," which reasonably makes sense, but is followed on the next page by: "When images dance across the screen / to a beat that shimmers and bounces, / spins and turns unfold in his mind, / step by step / but quietly... quietly, so no one sees." But, doing things in your mind is literally something it's impossible for anyone else to see. And it feels weird to use "quietly," which is a volume word (as "softly" also can be), to indicate other people not being able to see. Like, it makes some sense, but also...
The book jacket asserts that the text mimics the kinds of music Harish used, and I can see that, but I think one still could have accomplished that with better quality text in places.
I wished for a glossary. Lots of Hindi (?) words show up in the text without explanation. The reader can generally infer what they are (like "Thumris and ragas soar in his mind" is accompanied by an illustration showing some stringed instruments -- except no, wait, I looked them up and they're more like kinds of music/songs ... which I guess I was supposed to get from the following lines: "Rhythms pulse through his body. / The music sings clarion clear in his heart.") -- but lines like "A ghagra, mirrored and flowing. / A choli, brightly patterned" it would be helpful to be able to actually visualize that oh, a ghagra is a skirt and a choli is a blouse.
*Via his Wiki, I found his last interview, in which he says:
I belong to the colourful and bright desert city of Jaisalmer — this culturally rich and beautiful city in Rajasthan is where many tourists come, and folk art and dance are the main attractions for tourists here. Every restaurant and resort in Jaisalmer provides folk music and dance shows to tourists for entertainment. A friend suggested that I do this job in the evening to get enough money for the family and that was also the only way to continue my school education. I would go to school from 12 to 5 pm and then dance from the evening till late night. [...] I was from a middle class family and nobody was a dancer in my family. So it was shock after shock for people around me, and to add to the grief, I was dancing for tourists at night — that was a kind of “shame job” and was looked down upon by one and all.(There is an "About Queen Harish" section at the back of the book, which clarifies some of the stuff we weren't entirely sure about, but doesn't expand on that particular piece.)
Speaking of his Wiki, there's some stuff in there that I would have loved to have had included.
Harish Kumar was born in 1979, in a carpenter family in Suthar community in Jaisalmer in Rajasthan.[2] He started dancing at the age of 13.[3] Harish, who lost his parents, started drag dancing to take care of his sisters.[3] Inspired by 'Annu Master', the first drag performer in the Jaisalmer region, he started learning drag dance under him.[3] He practiced American tribal style belly dance to make his body more capable of all feminine movements.[4]He had a teacher! (This book very much gave me the impression that he was unique and first in doing drag -- especially given the early text about there being a clear "line in the sand" keeping you in your place as boy/man or girl/woman.) I get that that could take away from the evocative story being told in this book, but I hope we get more books about him that tell a fuller story.
The Artist's Note says, "All of the details, patterns, and motifs that appear in the art are rooted in and inspired by Jaisalmer's cultural heritage; that includes miniature paintings, Jain temple architecture, details of Jaisalmer fort, textiles, frescos, and murals of the city."
November 30, 2024
Definitely need to read the hard copy version to fully appreciate this story but I'm glad I learned about the real drag queen who inspired this story.
December 4, 2023
A picture book tribute in biography form to Queen Harish - a drag performer who was killed in a traffic accident in 2019. Told in verse, the text is ethereal and poetic and the illustrations are legit gorgeous. Gem tones and incredible detail work helps orient the story in Harish's Rajasthan and make for a remarkable visual experience.
November 2, 2023
Loved DESERT QUEEN by Jyoti Gopal and Svabhu Kohli. The art, the lyrical writing, and the courage to create such a beautiful picture book biography is inspiring. It’s a wonderful labor of love. What a nice way to honor the dancer. Congratulations Jyoti and Svabhu on all the starred reviews! I’m sure Queen Harish would be smiling at this book if she were alive.
December 15, 2023
WOW! I have never seen a picture book quite like this and it is absolutely stunning! Just wow! I was immediately drawn into Jyoti's lyrical language and the illustrations are like nothing you've ever seen before...just drop-dead gorgeous! This brave and bold story is going to light up a lot of hearts and minds...it is an important and difficult story to tell...but this book does it beautifully. I felt very overcome with emotion, and moved. . . it made me think, feel, and ask questions. Gosh, I was so sad to learn the inspiration behind the story had tragically died...what an incredible legacy and this book with its wonderful words and stunning pictures truly honors Queen Harish's story.
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October 10, 2023This book is a work of art. What a lyrical, artistic, and thought-provoking tribute to Queen Harish. Jyoti Rajan Gopal’s powerful text reads like poetry and demands a read-aloud. Svabhu Kohli’s bold illustrations will captivate readers. A story of perseverance and finding your passion against all odds. DESERT QUEEN is essential for home and library bookshelves.
October 13, 2023
This book beautifully highlights the story of Harrish Kumar, who makes a bold decision to become a drag performer to care for his family after tragedy strikes. The story is one of triumph over trials and perseverance as Queen Harrish ultimately becomes a beloved national icon. The illustrations and words go hand in hand to tell a bold and beautiful story.
June 13, 2023
Lovely, lyrical picture book that is vividly illustrated. Stunning text and art go well together. Readers will enjoy this wonderful read aloud.
November 15, 2023
Absolutely beautiful and inspiring. I love that there are more books out there, especially for young people, about queer people in other cultures that we think of as more "traditional."
December 12, 2024
Gorgeous.
January 26, 2024
Looking for a beautiful and lyrical picture book that explores identity?
A boy, living in the Thar Desert, is drawn to dance but boys do not dance where he lives. When he is cast in a play as Lord Krishna, he gets to dress up and dance on stage. He feels so alive. Then his parents die and, in order to provide for his two sisters, he dresses up as a girl and dances and makes money, to much acclaim, every evening. Unfortunately, he is bullied every day. The boy/girl does not give up but they continue to practice and train. Dance becomes their joy and their life's work.
A touching story of staying true to who you are, and overcoming daunting obstacles. You'll want to revisit this book several times for the story and to take time with the richly vibrant cover, end papers, and illustrations.
Desert Queen was inspired by the "Whirling Desert Queen of Rajasthan", the performer, Queen Harish. The back matter shares the author's connection with Queen Harish, and includes a short biography of the performer.
Don't miss the Artist's Notes as they give insight into the inspiration for the illustrations.
A boy, living in the Thar Desert, is drawn to dance but boys do not dance where he lives. When he is cast in a play as Lord Krishna, he gets to dress up and dance on stage. He feels so alive. Then his parents die and, in order to provide for his two sisters, he dresses up as a girl and dances and makes money, to much acclaim, every evening. Unfortunately, he is bullied every day. The boy/girl does not give up but they continue to practice and train. Dance becomes their joy and their life's work.
A touching story of staying true to who you are, and overcoming daunting obstacles. You'll want to revisit this book several times for the story and to take time with the richly vibrant cover, end papers, and illustrations.
Desert Queen was inspired by the "Whirling Desert Queen of Rajasthan", the performer, Queen Harish. The back matter shares the author's connection with Queen Harish, and includes a short biography of the performer.
Don't miss the Artist's Notes as they give insight into the inspiration for the illustrations.
February 4, 2024
3 stars (I liked it)
It's that time of year where all the ALA winners I put on hold came in at the library...
What I like about this book:
-beautiful illustrations. They are intricate and memorizing
-the topic. I think it was fascinating to learn about this person and all they went through
What I did not like about this book:
-too many pages to get the point across. Lots of repetition. While I really enjoyed the illustrations, I still think this book could definitely have been edited down
-appeal. Let me explain. This is a picture book. So you'd think it's audience would be elementary students. I don't think that is really it's audience. I'm not trying to say that drag is inappropriate for kids but I think the actual writing would go over the heads of many elementary students. The ones that would understand it, would be the ones who have no interest in picture books. I'm not a big fan of picture books whose audience is actually adults.
It's that time of year where all the ALA winners I put on hold came in at the library...
What I like about this book:
-beautiful illustrations. They are intricate and memorizing
-the topic. I think it was fascinating to learn about this person and all they went through
What I did not like about this book:
-too many pages to get the point across. Lots of repetition. While I really enjoyed the illustrations, I still think this book could definitely have been edited down
-appeal. Let me explain. This is a picture book. So you'd think it's audience would be elementary students. I don't think that is really it's audience. I'm not trying to say that drag is inappropriate for kids but I think the actual writing would go over the heads of many elementary students. The ones that would understand it, would be the ones who have no interest in picture books. I'm not a big fan of picture books whose audience is actually adults.
June 17, 2024
A perfect match of gorgeous art and eloquent words tell a duel story of the life of Queen Harish, a drag queen from Rajasthan, India, who, after his parents' deaths, was the oldest child orphaned with two sisters to care for. Harish feels the call of the dance and wants nothing more than to spend his life dancing, but he also knows that "in the desert world there are lines in the sand. Boy OR girl, man OR woman." The music calls him. The smell of makeup and jangle of mirrored skirts haunt him. Harish finally finds a way to be a desert queen nights and a brother to his sisters by day.
The art is phenomenal. As the artists explains in the back matter, there are 20 layers of paint on the illustrations lending a depth of color that jumps from the page as exuberant as the desert queen in his dance.
The art is phenomenal. As the artists explains in the back matter, there are 20 layers of paint on the illustrations lending a depth of color that jumps from the page as exuberant as the desert queen in his dance.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews