Black Flamingo is a novel in verse about Michael, a mixed race boy growing up in England. Michael’s father is Jamaican and his mother is Greek Cypriot. We begin the story with Michael at around age 7 and follow him to his freshman year of university. 

Michael quickly notices he is different from other boys his age. As this awareness grows into understanding his queer identity, he faces challenges within his family and with his friends. The story of a real black flamingo becomes a symbol for his experience and he turns it into a poignant analogy that you must read. 

I have no criticism for this story, it is heartfelt, beautiful, and so special. I love how the poetry grew in depth as Michael grew. The attention to character growth was wonderful, from Michael to his mother to his best friend. This is a really special book that I think everyone will love.