Due to how the end/foot notes work - having to go to the end - I was unable to finish this fantastic book. I followed the end notes in hopes to see a picture source and was locked out from the book. Apologies. I look forward to purchasing this in the future despite this.

This is my book of the year for 2024 - if I could give it 6 stars, I would.

Jon Key's book discusses queer Black design through the ages, mixed in with autobiographical anecdotes, interview excerpts, and images to create an incredible thoughtful and well-written book. The chronological nature of the book mirrored in the autobiographical elements makes you feel like you're going on a journey through time and space.

Jon Key's language and style means that you never feel patronised by technical language and the way he describes artworks is second to none. Every word felt like it had been carefully chosen to fulfil a role.

I enjoyed the variety of people and media covered throughout the book including album artwork, book covers, zines, and other print media. The design of the book was sublime too - this book is not just interesting and informative, it is also a cornucopia of visual delights.

It was a pleasure to read the digital version of this book and I will be buying it in print too (yes, I'm also one of those people, Jon).

With thanks to NetGalley for an ARC

**ARC received in exchange for an honest review**


It's no secret that minorities are still excluded from many LGBTQ+ spaces and often face even harsher discrimination due to the intersection of racism and homophobia. That’s why I’m eagerly anticipating the physical release of this book. It’s a powerful non-fiction memoir/historical procession of the authors journey growing up queer and black and reflecting on important figures throughout history.
With that the author shines a light on Queer History in general through the lens of Black intellectuals, fighters, political figures, writers, artists, activists, and more, spanning from the 19th century to today.

What stood out to me the most were the artifacts—ranging from photographs to newspaper clippings and drawings—which brought history to life. I also appreciated the fresh insights of the author’s life. A
vulnerable yet strong and empowering narration.

(Some background information was entirely new to me, and I was thrilled to learn more about some of my favorite historical figures, like Zora Neale Hurston and Toni Morrison)

Thank you NetGalley and Jon Key for the ARC!

I admired the range of this book, and the attention to detail and amount of research that went into it. I loved learning about types of medium when it comes to art, whether that be painting or photography, but the importance of capturing a moment and visual arts in history. One of the reasons I was drawn to the book was the title, displaying the significance of intersectionality and how our society needs to do better in recognizing this aspect. We live in a time where we must be aware of respecting others and educating ourselves on topics that might be unknown to us. I appreciated how it was chronological, watching the progress of art and meaning to individuals over time as a reflection of time and environment. The personal connections to the author and our American culture and existence was great to read about. I have also found artists that I am excited to dive into more.