The novel tackles many aspects of Michael's upbringing, including being raised by a single parent (his mother). As well as, his dealing with his absentee father and finding a father figure in his Uncle (his father's own brother). Michael's mother and sister show their unconditional love and support when he comes out. Without hesitation they embrace who he is, his mother even purchasing items for him that she knows he would appreciate. He also finds a solid friend in high school, Daisy, who becomes family to him. This novel is also about love, but less about romantic love and more about self love. Michael confronts the man he lost his virginity to, by pushing away the other mans internal homophobia and prejudices, rejecting his criticisms. Michael shows the world that he loves himself no matter what others would make him feel, no matter how people might try to belittle or try to change him. The book highlights how life itself is a performance, and funnily enough, it is when Michael is performing his drag act that he feels more himself than ever. He is able to recite his poetry, wear what he desires, expose his soul, and be free. It is on the stage when he can fully breathe and express the Black Flamingo that lives inside of him. He feels surrounded there, by hope, by love, by support; no need to be afraid of rejection or hate. The audiobook was good, but it was hard to discern the breaks in the verses (poems). This made it a bit hard to connect the audiobook to its poetic roots, making it sound more like a normal novel. I think this novel would have been greater with a bit more bulk, there were certain moments when I would have liked the author to delve deeper into the situation (the moments of racism Michael dealt with). However, the book is wonderfully expressive and it was so meaningful to grow and change with Michael. To learn with him and learn that love is more than moments between two people, it is also an acceptance of self.
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April 2024
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