Gender Queer

Checklist Category: Written by an author with AND features a character with an underrepresented identity in the country of publication (LGBTQ+, female, disabled, or person of color)

Authors, Creators, Illustrators: Maia Kobabe

Publisher and # of Pages: Oni Press, 240 pages

Year of Publication/Release: May 2019

I picked this title after seeing it placed on many banned and challenged book list and want to see what all the ruckus was about. In Gender Queer, I found myself transported into the shoes of Maia Kobabe as they walk us their journey of gender expression and sexuality. Gender Queer was a selection that showed me that while I may consider myself to be an ally and supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community, I still have much to learn to help me further understand and empathize with those of this community. The author’s vulnerability and transparency in their storytelling is one that will stick with me.