Diverse Reads Annotation

Author: Tee Franklin

Title: Bingo Love

Genre: LGBTQ+ fiction, graphic novels

Publication Date: February 20, 2018

Number of Pages: 88 pages

Geographical Setting: New Jersey

Time Period: 1960's and Present

Series (if applicable): n/a

Plot Summary: 

Hazel Johnson and Mari McCray first met at church bingo in the 1960s. They are teenagers who become fast friends. After years of friendship, they discover that they both have romantic feelings for each other. Unfortunately, their families do not approve of their love and separate them. 

Both women go on to marry men and have children. The story primarily focuses on Hazel's family and the unhappiness she experiences being away from her one true love. Decades later, Hazel and Mari run into each other again and decide that life is too short to not be with the one you love. 

Subject Headings: According to Novelist

• Lesbian seniors
• Lovers' reunions
• African American lesbians
• African American women
• Second chances

Appeal:

Characters

The main characters and love interests, Hazel and Mari, are easy to fall in love with. They both are driven, hardworking women who have always put others first. As the story progresses, you see Hazel and Mari put themselves (and their love) first. The story includes a large cast of characters (mainly Hazel's children and grandchildren) who are supportive and proud of her. 

Storyline

The story takes place over 60 years, focusing primarily on the 1960s and 2000s. Readers watch as Hazel and Mari struggle through the years without each out but also witness the joyful moments of them building their life together. 

Pacing

This is a fast-paced, short graphic novel that still manages to capture very pivotal moments in the character's life. 

Illustrations

Bingo Love is a vibrant graphic novel that captures Hazel and Mari's love story through captivating illustrations. They provide depth to the story and characters. 

3 terms that best describe this book: romantic, heartwarming, engaging

3 Relevant Non-Fiction Works:

The Book of Pride: LGBTQ Heroes Who Changed the World by Mason Funk

Funk pays tribute to those who contributed to the LGBTQ rights movement. This book is perfect for readers looking to learn more about influential leaders who helped change history. 

Sister Outsider: Essays and Speeches by Audre Lorde

"A celebration of intersectionality, Black lesbian poet and feminist Audre Lorde analyzes the presence of ageism, sexism, racism, classism and homophobia in her own life through a collection of lyrical essays and speeches (Jackson & Aviles, 2017). 

The Gay Revolution: The Story of the Struggle by Lillian Faderman

Faderman documents LGBTQ struggles and activism from the 50s to the present. 

3 Relevant Fiction Works and Authors: 

Kiss Number 8 by Colleen AF Venable

An LGBTQ+ graphic novel for young adult readers. A coming-of-age story about coming out and acceptance. A great pick for readers looking for more graphic novels with LGBTQ+ representation. 

You Should See Me In A Crown by Leah Johnson

A young adult novel about a young Black girl discovering her identity in her small town. This coming-of-age story features relatable characters and witty dialogue. 

The Girl from the Sea by Molly Ostertag

The Girl from the Sea is an LGBTQ+ graphic novel that is a coming-of-age story with an element of fantasy mixed in. 

                 

References

Jackson, C. S., & Aviles, G. (2017, October 6). LGBTQ history month: 17 must-read books about queer history. NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/select/nbc-out/11-books-read-lgbtq-history-month-ncna808486