In-flight reading: 5 must read books by Black and Queer writers
As we close out Pride month, Detour would like to take the time and feature four books written by Black and LGBTQ+ authors.
The Late Americans by Brandon Taylor (2023)
With the University of Iowa serving as a backdrop, Taylor’s The Late Americans follows a complex group of students who are pursuing their Master’s degrees while dealing with the sociopolitical barriers of a college town. The large cast of characters is written beautifully whether discussing sexual encounters, finding
Skye Falling by Mia Mckenzie (2021)
This fun, fast-paced book features Skye, a Black queer woman in her late 30s. She lives her life on her own chaotic terms. A 12-year-old girl enters her life, simultaneously adding messiness and stability. There are layers of family, personal relationships, and career journeys throughout that add to the adventure of this delightful narrative. As an aside, Mckenzie has also created BGD, the first and only popular media website that centers queer and trans people of color.
All Boys Aren’t Blue: A Memoir-Manifesto by George M. Johnson (2020)
This memoir-manifesto takes an honest look at Johnson’s journey toward their own identity. There is so much power in the honesty displayed in each story. The details of growing up as Black and queer are transparently told from sexual encounters, abuse, and more. It is brave and filled with love, truth, and compassion.
This collection of poems is unapologetically Black and Queer. From friendship to intimacy, this text reaches a great depth of emotion at every turn. This award-winning text is filled with charisma and compassion as it celebrates loved ones from all walks.
Difficult Women by Roxane Gay (2017)
Roxane Gay shows up at every turn with her writing and Difficult Women is no different. The book explores the lives of women who have been deemed difficult. Their presumed difficulty comes from experiences with race, sex, class, and more. Gay shines in describing the complexities of humanity through the lens of these diversely voiced women.
Jeff Dess is an editor for DETOUR, an award-winning educator, best-selling author and notable public speaker who specializes in the areas of Learning and Development and culturally responsive education. As a public speaker and facilitator Jeff has reached over 100,000 learners. Jeff is an author of seven books. We Wear Kicks to Works is an Amazon best-seller, which further explores the intersection of pop culture, leadership, and education. For more email JeffDess@detourxp.com