Thoughts 
by George M Johnson, Macmillan Audio 2020, 5 hours 12 minutes
Narrated by the author.
Challenge: What’s in a Name: Color category
Genre/Theme: Nonfiction, essays, LGBTQ+
Type/Source: Audiobook / eLibby
What It’s About: This is a collection of essays detailing the author’s growing up in a loving family and also identifying with interests more socially conditioned to be typically girl things – like double-dutch jump rope at recess. They talk about trauma of bullying, wanting and fearing being different, identifying as queer, how much their Nanny provided in love and support, their education from a black perspective, and their sexuality.
The memoir is a firsthand account of trials, tribulations, and triumphs that have made George M. Johnson into the person they are today.
—Coryandre Wright (IMDB link)
Thoughts: I learned a few things! Important work – they’re willing to share and I am willing to know more and do more about how to promote respect for all humanity and be a good human.
This book was requested via my library because school districts near me have banned it. I wanted to know why and I wanted to show community support for books and marginalized people. I believe a couple of things when the topic of books and age appropriateness is discussed; 1) if a kid reads something they don’t understand, they look it up and/or ask a trusted adult to explain more, or 2) they just skip over it because they don’t understand it or it’s just not relevant to them to relate to. They aren’t groomed or seduced or corrupted. If a kid is seeking out this book, they just might need it and it would be best for all to be able to discuss and pour love not judgement onto the situation. Education, education, education. I respect the parents that take the tough questions and build trust rather than promote fear and shame. Love and respect. Stand up to hate. Have the tough conversations.
Rating: Four slices of pie.
Care's Books and Pie 