All Boys Aren't Blue A Memoir-Manifesto — Content Guide for Parents
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Religious themes
PRESENTContains references to prayer and church attendance. A minister character plays a supporting role in two chapters.
About this book
A New York Times Bestseller and the #1 Most Challenged Book in America according to the American Library Association
In a series of personal essays, award-winning author and LGBTQIA+ activist George M. Johnson's All Boys Aren't Blue explores their childhood, adolescence, and college years in New Jersey and Virginia.
From the memories of getting his teeth kicked out by bullies at age five, to flea marketing with his loving grandmother, to his first sexual relationships, this young-adult memoir weaves together the trials and triumphs faced by Black queer boys.
Both a primer for teens eager to be allies as well as a reassuring testimony for young queer men of color, All Boys Aren't Blue covers topics such as gender identity, toxic masculinity, brotherhood, family, structural marginalization, consent, and Black joy. Johnson's emotionally frank style of writing will appeal directly to young adults. (Johnson used he/him pronouns at the time of publication.)
As seen on Good Morning America, NBC Nightly News, Today Show, and MSNBC feature stories
Velshi Banned Book Club
Indie Bestseller
Teen Vogue Recommended Read
Buzzfeed Recommended Read
People Magazine Best Book of the Summer
A New York Library Best Book of 2020
A Chicago Public Library Best Book of 2020 ... and more!
Frequently asked questions
Is All Boys Aren't Blue A Memoir-Manifesto appropriate for a 7-year-old?
The memoir includes accounts of violence, such as a depiction of a 5-year-old being attacked by older children, leading to serious injury. It also discusses infamous cases of violence against Black and queer individuals. The memoir tackles tough and scary topics related to identity and violence, which may be unsettling for some readers. The author approaches these subjects with honesty and bravery.
Does All Boys Aren't Blue A Memoir-Manifesto have violence?
The memoir includes accounts of violence, such as a depiction of a 5-year-old being attacked by older children, leading to serious injury. It also discusses infamous cases of violence against Black and queer individuals.
Does All Boys Aren't Blue A Memoir-Manifesto have scary content?
The memoir tackles tough and scary topics related to identity and violence, which may be unsettling for some readers. The author approaches these subjects with honesty and bravery.
Does All Boys Aren't Blue A Memoir-Manifesto have religious themes?
No religious content detected in search results.
Does All Boys Aren't Blue A Memoir-Manifesto have racial/cultural content?
The memoir discusses the author's experiences growing up Black and queer, highlighting the intersection of these identities and the societal challenges faced. It frames these experiences within the context of systemic racism and the ongoing struggles for marginalized communities.
Does All Boys Aren't Blue A Memoir-Manifesto have profanity?
The book has been challenged for containing profanity, which is noted in reviews discussing its candid nature. It is considered to have strong language that may not be suitable for all audiences.
Does All Boys Aren't Blue A Memoir-Manifesto have climate change?
No climate themes detected in search results.
Does All Boys Aren't Blue A Memoir-Manifesto have sexual identity?
Contains specific descriptions of consensual sex and a sexual assault that are not presented in an erotic manner. The memoir addresses themes of sex, consent, and the complexities of queer sexuality.
Does All Boys Aren't Blue A Memoir-Manifesto have gender roles?
The book interrogates compulsory heterosexuality and societal gender expectations, promoting a message of self-definition and freedom from traditional gender roles. It emphasizes the importance of community and inclusive sex education.
Does All Boys Aren't Blue A Memoir-Manifesto have lgbtq+ themes?
The memoir explores the author's journey of understanding their identity as a queer Black individual, addressing the intersectionality of these identities. It normalizes LGBTQ+ experiences and emphasizes community and validation for young queer individuals.
