Bad Queer by Gayathiri Kamalakanthan and Chi Nwosu tells affirming coming
Bad Queer is a new young adult novel-in-verse by Gayathiri Kamalakanthan and illustrator Chi Nwosu that explores themes of self-acceptance and queer identity. The book uses a unique combination of poetry and line drawings to depict the protagonist's journey of finding representation within their culture.
Why it matters
The book contributes to the growing body of literature focused on intersectional queer experiences and the importance of representation for non-binary youth.
Poet, playwright and author Gayathiri Kamalakanthan wrote Bad Queer, a YA novel about self-acceptance. ( Supplied: Allen & Unwin )
Link copied Share Share article Surya feels like a bad queer. When an ice cream man misgenders them, they stay silent.
Kamalakanthan has said Bad Queer is about queer "futures & the worlds we're building together". ( Supplied: Allen & Unwin )
"I pray for a sharper tongue," they think when a classmate harasses them for not looking like either a boy or a girl.
Surya is the protagonist of Bad Queer, a young adult novel-in-verse written by London-based Gayathiri Kamalakanthan and illustrated by Chicago artist Chi Nwosu.
Coming into their final year at school, Surya has come out to their parents, who are queer and non-binary, and their close friend Maha, but not to everyone.
They're also yet to have their first romantic relationship.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in