Flamer

Named one of Kirkus' best books of the 21st century.

Award-winning author and artist Mike Curato draws on his own experiences in Flamer, his debut graphic novel, telling a difficult story with humor, compassion, and love.

"This book will save lives." —Jarrett J. Krosoczka, author of National Book Award Finalist Hey, Kiddo

I know I’m not gay. Gay boys like other boys. I hate boys. They’re mean, and scary, and they’re always destroying something or saying something dumb or both.

I hate that word. Gay. It makes me feel . . . unsafe.

It's the summer between middle school and high school, and Aiden Navarro is away at camp. Everyone's going through changes—but for Aiden, the stakes feel higher. As he navigates friendships, deals with bullies, and spends time with Elias (a boy he can't stop thinking about), he finds himself on a path of self-discovery and acceptance.

AWARDS

2020 NYPL Best Books of the Year long-listed 

2020 NPR Best Book of the Year long-listed 

2020 School Library Best Books of the Year long-listed 

2020 Kirkus Reviews Best Books of the Year long-listed 

2021 Lambda Literary Award - Nominee short-listed

2021 Lambda Literary Awards - Winner winner 

2020 School Library Journal Best Books of the Year long-listed  

2020 NPR Best Book of the Year long-listed  

2021 Lambda Literary Award - Nominee short-listed  

2020 Kirkus Reviews Best Books of the Year long-listed  

2021 Lambda Literary Awards - Winner winner  

2020 School Library Journal Best Books of the Year long-listed  

2020 NYPL Best Books of the Year long-listed