All Boys Aren't Blue: A Memoir-Manifesto

Ages 14 to 18

This New York Times bestselling debut YA memoir—about growing up Black and queer—has become a media sensation in the face of book banning across America. Finally available in paperback!

In a series of personal essays, the prominent journalist and LGBTQIA+ activist George M. Johnson explores their childhood, adolescence, and college years in New Jersey and Virginia. From the memories of getting their teeth kicked out by bullies at age five, to going to flea markets with their loving grandmother, to George's first sexual relationships, this young-adult memoir weaves together the trials and triumphs faced by Black queer children.

Both a primer for teens eager to be allies as well as a reassuring testimony for young queer people 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.

About the Author

George M. Johnson (they/them) is a writer and activist based in New York. They have written on race, gender, sex, and culture for Essence, The Advocate, Buzz Feed News, Teen Vogue, and more than forty other national publications. They are a columnist for AFROPUNK, and have appeared on BuzzFeed AM2DM as well as MSNBC. All Boys Aren't Blue is their debut. iamgmjohnson.com