This was a really compelling look into the days after the death of Freddie Gray in 2015 Baltimore. Moore outlines those 5 days through the viewp3.75 ⭐
This was a really compelling look into the days after the death of Freddie Gray in 2015 Baltimore. Moore outlines those 5 days through the viewpoints of 8 individuals whose lives intersected during these protests.
While informative, my biggest issue was the organization of these viewpoints. It often felt meandering and getting off track.
Still a very powerful recount of the oppression endemic to the communities in Baltimore....more
At the moment, this is just not it for me. I wanted to try for the bookclub but I can't make myself.
I don't know exactly why this isn't working... mayAt the moment, this is just not it for me. I wanted to try for the bookclub but I can't make myself.
I don't know exactly why this isn't working... maybe its the formatting? The topic itself seems interesting enough (spoiler alert- it is in fact NOT about blowing up a pipeline though.)
George Johnson paints a very personal picture of what his life growing up as a queer Black kid in a society that is dangerous to both of those demographics. He covers topics such as gender identity, toxic masculinity, brotherhood, family, structural marginalization, consent, and Black joy.
And the wonderful thing about this book is that it was clearly written for young queer Black kids to ensure that they can see their lived experiences in media. As someone who is of a similar age as the author, I can say that I never had access to queer stories like this growing up. Part of that makes my inner-child really sad but I mostly feel grateful to the author for being able to put his truth out there for a younger generation.
A note: I ended up switching over to the audiobook which I think helped increase my overall enjoyment. The writing style does come across as meant for a younger audience (which, yeah.. it's a YA memoir.) The cadence and style feel like Johnson is sitting down with you and telling you stories from his past which I think just lends itself better to audio. So, if you have a chance to pick up the audiobook, I think it's absolutely worth the read. Especially to hear it in the authors own voice....more
Technically I'd give this around 4⭐ but I'm rating it 5⭐ for Elliot Page and to spite his shit ass father and that c.you.n.t, Linda.
God this was suchTechnically I'd give this around 4⭐ but I'm rating it 5⭐ for Elliot Page and to spite his shit ass father and that c.you.n.t, Linda.
God this was such a gut wrenching read sometimes. The things that Elliot has gone through in his personal and professional life had me angry and so so sad.
I really appreciate how he discusses his journey with his sexuality and his gender as separate and constantly evolving.
And I wish him nothing but happiness, success, and wonderful loving people in his life. ❤️
(Less important but still happy to hear that Michael Cera and Hugh Jackman are good people. Hearing about all of the shit people in that industry, it's nice to know there are genuinely good ones as well. )
My only issue technically is the organization of the story. I love a non-linear storyline but it has to serve a purpose and this one just did not. I often found myself confused on where we were in the grand scheme of things.
Please check CWs before reading. - SA, CA, stalking, eating disorders, mental health, suicidal ideations, body dysmorphia, homophobia, transphobia, surgical procedures......more