In 2022, the American Library Association recorded a record number of book challenges in America. Flamer by Mike Curato was listed at number four on this list, with 62 challenges as of writing this review. According to the ALA, it was challenged for LGBTQIA+ content and sexually explicit material.
The graphic novel itself is about a boy named Aiden, who is spending his summer before high school at a sleepaway boy scout camp. He's been bullied throughout middle school, and he's not looking forward to potential threats in high school. At this point, he's just trying to enjoy his summer. Boy scout camp is the only place he feels comfortable with others, and the narrative is about Aiden working up the confidence to be himself and learn who he is. This is hard, though, as he's having gay thoughts and doesn't understand why.
This is a book off the 2022 Banned Books list I really enjoyed. Curato's narrative manages to incorporate funny elements into a serious story. Although the book is meant for a middle and high school audience, I enjoyed it greatly and found many of the situations Aiden finds himself in relatable. I may be heterosexual, but I was a girl scout and an altar server growing up. It's clear Curato was most likely a scout and altar boy as well since some of the scenes are the type of situations you could only write if you experienced them yourself. I'm always a fan of authors incorporating personal experiences into their stories, as it makes the book feel more genuine.
As a reminder, Banned Books Week is coming up from October 1st-7th this year. Now is a great time to get a head start on the list so you have some books to talk about!
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