Literature Reviews - 2025

Review: The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta

Introduction

The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta is a beautifully crafted young adult novel written in verse that explores identity, race, gender, and self-expression. Following Michael, a mixed-race gay teen growing up in Britain, the book chronicles his journey of self-discovery as he navigates family expectations, societal pressures, and his own evolving sense of self. Ultimately, he finds his voice and confidence through the world of drag, embracing his true self as The Black Flamingo. With stunning lyrical prose and poignant themes, this novel is both an artistic triumph and an emotional powerhouse.

Plot Summary

Michael grapples with his identity from a young age. Being mixed-race—half Greek Cypriot and half Jamaican—he often feels like he doesn’t fully belong to either cultural group. His struggles with race are compounded by his realization that he is gay, a revelation that makes him feel even more alienated during his school years.

Despite growing up with a loving mother and younger sister, Michael faces microaggressions and direct discrimination, both within his family and in broader society. His father is largely absent, and his friends don’t always understand or support him. He finds comfort in poetry, using words to express his emotions and make sense of the world around him.

Upon entering university, Michael seeks out a space where he can truly belong. While trying to fit into various student organizations, he finds a home in the Drag Society. There, he discovers a powerful and liberating way to express himself, ultimately stepping into the spotlight as The Black Flamingo. His drag persona allows him to embrace his full identity, merging his racial and sexual identity into a bold, unapologetic self-expression.

Character Development

Michael is a deeply relatable protagonist, and his journey is one of growth, resilience, and self-acceptance. His struggles with feeling “not Black enough” or “not Greek enough” resonate with many readers who have experienced the complexities of mixed heritage.

One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its portrayal of Michael’s relationships:

His mother is a supportive yet protective figure, who loves him deeply but also worries about the challenges he will face.
His younger sister, Anna, adds warmth to the story, providing a contrast to Michael’s struggles by representing a more carefree and loving presence in his life.
His friends, particularly Daisy, play crucial roles in both supporting and challenging him as he navigates his identity.
Jack, a closeted boy with whom Michael has a complicated relationship, highlights the internal struggles faced by many LGBTQ+ individuals who fear societal judgment.

Through these relationships, Atta explores the nuances of family, friendship, and romantic connections, making The Black Flamingo a richly layered coming-of-age story.

Themes and Representation

Dean Atta’s novel masterfully explores multiple themes:

Identity and Belonging: Michael’s journey is about self-acceptance and finding his place in the world. His experience as a mixed-race individual and his struggles with his sexuality create a powerful narrative about intersectionality.
Masculinity and Gender Expression: The novel challenges traditional notions of masculinity. Michael’s love for poetry and drag contrasts with societal expectations, illustrating that strength and confidence come in many forms.
Drag as Empowerment: The Drag Society gives Michael a space to express himself freely. His transformation into The Black Flamingo symbolizes self-liberation and confidence.
Race and Cultural Identity: Michael’s internal conflict about his racial background highlights the experience of many mixed-race individuals who struggle with feeling “enough” for any one culture. The book also addresses racism, particularly in dating and social spaces.
LGBTQ+ Representation: The novel provides an authentic and nuanced portrayal of a young gay man’s experiences, including coming out, first love, and dealing with homophobia.

Writing Style and Narrative Structure

One of the most distinctive aspects of The Black Flamingo is its format. Written in verse, the novel combines poetry, narrative storytelling, and personal reflections to create an intimate and immersive reading experience.

Atta’s background as a poet shines through in the book’s lyrical quality. The free verse structure allows for a fluid, emotionally charged narrative that captures Michael’s innermost thoughts and struggles. Despite being written in poetry, the novel maintains a clear, engaging plot, making it accessible even to those who may not typically enjoy verse novels.

Many readers have praised the audiobook, narrated by Dean Atta himself, for bringing an added layer of emotion to the text. Meanwhile, the physical edition features striking illustrations by Anshika Khullar, enhancing the book’s artistic and emotional depth.

Criticism and Weaknesses

While The Black Flamingo has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, some readers have noted minor criticisms:

The ending feels somewhat abrupt: While Michael’s first drag performance serves as a powerful climax, some readers wished for more closure regarding his relationships and future.
Jack’s subplot could have been developed further: Jack, a closeted love interest, represents an important but painful reality for many LGBTQ+ individuals. Some readers felt his storyline was left unresolved, making his role in Michael’s life feel incomplete.
The imagined conversation at the end: Some readers felt that Michael’s imagined version of a conversation with Jack was unnecessary, as the real conversation already conveyed the intended message.

Despite these minor issues, the novel remains a standout in contemporary YA literature.

Final Verdict

The Black Flamingo is a breathtakingly beautiful novel that celebrates self-acceptance, individuality, and the power of embracing one’s true identity. Dean Atta’s poetic storytelling, combined with a compelling protagonist and rich themes, makes this a must-read for young adults and beyond.