Today we’re talking about another title from Rainbow Reads’ 24 Most Anticipated LGBTQ+ Children’s Titles of 2024! In Queer and Fearless: Poems Celebrating the Lives of Everyday Heroes, beloved author Rob Sanders and talented illustrator Harry Woodgate team up to create a picture book that’s as beautiful as it is inspiring.
Title: Queer and Fearless: Poems Celebrating the Lives of LGBTQ+ Heroes
Author: Lindz Amer
Illustrator: Harry Woodgate
Publish Date: April 16, 2024
Publisher: Penguin Workshop
Format: Picture Book
Sanders takes us on a journey through the lives of seventeen remarkable LGBTQ+ figures. You’ll get to know Marsha P. Johnson, Harvey Milk, Cleve Jones, Pauline Park, Richard Blanco, Pete Buttigieg, and many more. Each person’s story is shared through a poem that captures their spirit and contributions, making their achievements feel both personal and powerful. These heroes have made a lasting impact on the world by standing up for what they believe in and living their lives authentically. Sanders’ poems celebrate their bravery and resilience, encouraging readers to find their own courage and voice.
What makes Queer and Fearless so special is how it combines poetry with biographical details. Sanders’ poems are not only beautiful but also packed with information, giving readers a poetic glimpse into each hero’s life. Alongside these poems, you’ll find more detailed biographies that provide a fuller picture of their struggles and triumphs. This combination of poetry and storytelling makes the book engaging and educational. It’s a fantastic way to learn about LGBTQ+ history in a format that’s fun and accessible for young readers.
Harry Woodgate’s illustrations are simply wonderful. Each page bursts with color and life, perfectly complementing Sanders’ words. The artwork captures the essence of each hero, making their stories even more vibrant and memorable. Woodgate’s illustrations add an extra layer of magic to the book, making it a visual treat for readers of all ages.
Queer and Fearless isn’t just a beautiful book; it’s also a great learning tool. At the end of the book, you’ll find a helpful glossary and descriptions of different poetry styles. These features make it easy to understand the poetic forms used in the book and expand your vocabulary. Whether you’re reading at home or in the classroom, these extras turn the book into a fun and educational resource.
Queer and Fearless: Poems Celebrating the Lives of Everyday Heroes is a heartwarming and educational picture book that honors the legacies of LGBTQ+ pioneers through touching poetry and stunning illustrations. Rob Sanders and Harry Woodgate have created a book that’s not only a celebration of LGBTQ+ history but also a powerful tool for learning and inspiration. This book deserves a spot on every bookshelf, offering young readers a chance to learn about and be inspired by the heroes who have shaped our world. Queer and Fearless is sure to leave a lasting impression and encourage a deeper appreciation for these incredible individuals.
You can pick up your very own copy of Queer and Fearless: Poems Celebrating the Lives of LGBTQ+ Heroes and support independent bookstores at Bookshop.org. You can also find it on Amazon, or request it at your local library.
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About The Author:
Rob Sanders is a celebrated children’s book author and is known as one of the pioneers in the area of LGBTQIA+ literary nonfiction picture books. He is the author of PRIDE: The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag, Stitch by Stitch: Cleve Jones and the AIDS Memorial Quilt, and many more groundbreaking and important books for young readers. Learn about Rob and his work at robsanderswrites.com.
About The Illustrator:
Harry Woodgate (pronouns: they/them) is an award-winning author and illustrator who has worked with clients including National Book Tokens, Google, The Sunday Times Magazine, HarperCollins, Simon & Schuster, Walker Books, Andersen Press, Bloomsbury, The Washington Post, and Penguin Random House. Their books include Grandad’s Camper, Timid, Little Glow, Shine Like the Stars, My First Baking Book, and The Very Merry Murder Club. Visit them at harrywoodgate.com.
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