The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta

The Black Flamingo is about a teenage boy, Michael, coming to terms with his identity. Michael enjoys poetry and uses this as an outlet. This book takes place in modern society where Michael struggles with his identity for being gay and of mixed race. Michael is both Jamaican and Greek-Cypriot. Feeling as though he has never quite fit in, he works to accept himself throughout the story. He hopes that his acceptance of himself will allow society to understand him for who he is rather than trying to change him. 

By Teen Reviewer Grace