Banned Books Day 4 – Rich in Color

One aspect of the lesson we’ve all learned from the rise of book bans is how important local elections are. Many of these bans came about because many people focus on presidential and congressional elections but don’t often think locally. This needs to greatly change and slowly but surely school boards are changing for the care of the students rather than forcing an agenda. Of course, this is an election year and well…shenanigans are already happening so if we want to continue to bring about change we MUST get out and VOTE! Click on the logos below to check your voter registration status or to register to vote. Your voice matters and in 2024 especially.

Today’s book is from Audrey and her book is The Lesbiana’s Guide to Catholic School by Sonora Reyes. She states, “I knew I would love THE LESBIANA’S GUIDE TO CATHOLIC SCHOOL from the moment I saw the table of contents filled with hilarious faux “commandment”-style chapter titles. It is a delightful young adult book that sensitively tackles what it’s like to be a lesbian first-generation Mexican American teen trying to fly under the radar at a largely white Catholic high school. Yami’s relationships with her family and the girl she has a crush on create a solid emotional foundation for a compelling novel.”

The Lesbiana’s Guide to Catholic School by Sonora Reyes

Sixteen-year-old Yamilet Flores prefers to be known for her killer eyeliner, not for being one of the only Mexican kids at her new, mostly white, very rich Catholic school. But at least here no one knows she’s gay, and Yami intends to keep it that way.

After being outed by her crush and ex-best friend before transferring to Slayton Catholic, Yami has new priorities: keep her brother out of trouble, make her mom proud, and, most importantly, don’t fall in love. Granted, she’s never been great at any of those things, but that’s a problem for Future Yami.

The thing is, it’s hard to fake being straight when Bo, the only openly queer girl at school, is so annoyingly perfect. And smart. And talented. And cute. So cute. Either way, Yami isn’t going to make the same mistake again. If word got back to her mom, she could face a lot worse than rejection. So she’ll have to start asking, WWSGD: What would a straight girl do?

Told in a captivating voice that is by turns hilarious, vulnerable, and searingly honest, The Lesbiana’s Guide to Catholic School explores the joys and heartaches of living your full truth out loud.

If this novel appeals to you, show your support by visiting your local library or purchasing a copy at Bookshop.org.