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Starred Review from Kirkus Reviews. “The animated evolution of a queer boy from his strict religious upbringing to a liberated adolescence. . . . Tokyo-based couple Mann and Gatts integrate their illustrative and authorial talents in this debut graphic memoir vividly detailing Mann's coming-of-age while cloaking his burgeoning homosexual feelings.”
One of the Best Graphic Novels for Adults 2024 from the American Library Association
Lonnie's Orthodox Jewish community has always been clear: it's not okay to be gay. Growing up in a devout family and going to school at a yeshiva, he's told by his parents, his teachers, and his friends that being gay is a sin and an abomination. But as he gets older, he realizes that he likes boys, and wonders what kind of life he will be able to live. As Lonnie expands his world beyond the yeshiva to theater camp, college classes, and movie nights, he sees that the life he wants isn't compatible with the life of his parents — and his whole religious community.
This emotional graphic novel explores the fissures between identity and religion and charts Lonnie's journey from a kid who loved the rules of the Orthodox Jewish tradition to becoming increasingly independent and defiant, embracing his gay identity and developing his own chosen family.
"Excellent for readers seeking to understand challenges facing devout LGBTQIA+ people and for religious queer individuals themselves." —Library Journal
"The art is gentle and naturalistic, with crisp lines and often gradient, color wash backgrounds that soften even the starkest moments. Younger adults navigating their own coming out within religious communities will find resonance." —Publishers Weekly
“I'm so glad this beautiful, thoughtful book exists for readers who need it; for anyone fighting their way out or searching for a clear path. I can't wait to share it with kids who need it!” —Lucy Knisley, author of Kid Gloves and Relish
“I loved this book! It is for any of us who have been othered by our upbringing. This book lets you know that the journey out is worth it.” —Shelby Criswell, author of Queer As All Get Out
“While the circumstances of growing up in a strict orthodox household are highly individual, the feelings of loneliness and confusion mixed with hope are universal. Read it and remember.” —Rob Kirby, author of Marry Me a Little
“This tenderly-drawn journey of self-definition gave me a peek into a very different world. I loved it.” —Hazel Newlevant, author of No Ivy League
Ryan Gatts grew up in North Carolina. They studied animation at the Savannah College of Art & Design and later worked as a videogame technical artist in Seattle. Ryan worked with their husband Lonnie Mann to create the art for Lonnie’s graphic memoir. Ryan and Lonnie live together with their pet rabbit Kinako in Tokyo, Japan.