Pansy: A Black American Memoir

In this frank and fragmented autobiography, poet and YA novelist Joyner (Juniper Leaves) recounts their rocky adolescence in 1990s and early 2000s Memphis, Tenn., and their eventual exploration of their queer identity in New York City. Utilizing a nonlinear structure and conversational prose style, Joyner charts their messy voyage to understanding the “constant shape of me.” They wryly recall joining a Tennessee church with their family when they were 11 years old and attempting to fit in with their peers by presenting as “the best eleven-year-old, boy-loving (respectfully), boob-having Christian girl you ever did see.” Elsewhere, they memorably revisit a meeting of the New York City Dyke March committee in 2014, during which they sent their fellow members into a tailspin after asking to be referred to with they/them pronouns, and discuss the arduous process of getting their first novel published. Throughout, Joyner’s lyrical syntax and open-book attitude bolster the anecdotes, which come together to trace an inspiring arc toward self-acceptance. This is a captivating ode to the constant work of becoming—and understanding—oneself. (Self-published)