Representation in the media and in literature is important, but it's also important to have representation on your bookshelf! In this 5x5 we interviewed five authors who identify as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community to talk about writing, representation, and the future of queer literature
Jonathan Van Ness, the author of Over the Top and star of Queer Eye, has stepped out of his comfort zone. Bringing his signature humor and positivity, Van Ness has written a Children’s Book to inspire kids to celebrate everything that makes them special.
Looking back on his childhood, Van Ness never understood why he was more over the top than the rest of the children. It came to a point when he realized that there was little to no solace in books to make him feel as though his uniqueness was what made him special. This inspired Van Ness to write a book of his own that focused on a gender-neutral character in the form of a guinea pig.
Peanut Goes for the Gold is a heartfelt picture book that shows the uniqueness of a gender nonbinary guinea pig named Peanut. Peanut never fails to show their uniqueness. As the blurb states, “Whether it’s cartwheeling during basketball practice or cutting their own hair, this little guinea pig puts their own special twist on life.” By using gender-neutral pronouns, Van Ness gives room for children to insert themselves into the story in ways that they wouldn’t normally be able to.
Although Peanut can love themselves at such a young age, it wasn’t as easy for Van Ness to do the same. In his book, Over the Top, Van Ness shares his experiences with being different from other children. Growing up in a small Midwestern town, his unique personality caused “years of judgment, ridicule and trauma.”
Over the Top gives permission for Van Ness to share a side of himself that others haven’t seen. By sharing the pain and passion he felt at such a young age, it made headway for many to gain more insight into the whole Jonathan.
Through the good and the bad, Van Ness has been able to rise above and uplift children who may be experiencing the same.
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DC comics’ character ‘Aqualad’ has a new graphic novel. Jackson Hyde, the new Aqualad will be the main character of this novel. We follow Hyde as he discovers his powers and explores his sexuality. It so important to see stories like this, especially in the super hero genre. There are so many different interpretations of superheroes in different times lines and universes; its great to see variety in their sexualities as well.
You Brought Me The Ocean comes out this coming summer. So do yourself a favor and pick up a copy. It is sure to be good.
Featured Image via CBR
