Queer and Fearless: Poems Celebrating the Lives of LGBTQ+ Heroes

“Everyone loves a hero,” states Sanders’s introduction to this informative collection of poems about 17 activists and politicians who “made/ a difference for members of the LGBTQ+/ community.” Varying by form and subject, the assorted poem types (cento, diamante, limerick, shape poem, and more) highlight individuals including Stormé DeLarverie, Marsha P. Johnson, Cleve Jones, Harvey Milk, and José Sarria. On each spread, a heartfelt poem is accompanied by a brief contextualizing biography—at times needed to understand the poems and Woodgate’s illustrations, which portray each activist in abundant detail. Alongside a vibrant image of Gilbert Baker with the Pride flag he designed, lines foreground how “sewing let him be who he always was/ A man as good as any other.” It’s an upbeat collection that’s, like Baker’s rainbow flag, “lovingly crafted.” Back matter includes a glossary, list of poem types, and author’s note. Ages 6–9. (Apr.)