43 pages • 1 hour read
Flamer
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Book Brief
368
Graphic Novel/Book • Fiction
Summer Camp • 1990s
2020
YA
14-18 years
Super Short Summary
Flamer by Mike Curato follows 14-year-old Aiden Navarro as he navigates bullying, racial identity, and the realization that he is gay during the final weeks of Boy Scouts summer camp in 1995. Set against a backdrop of systemic discrimination, Aiden grapples with self-acceptance and the challenges of growing up as someone deemed “other,” while forming bonds with his peers and confronting internal and external conflicts. The text contains references to suicidal ideation.
Emotional
Challenging
Inspirational
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
11,110 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Flamer by Mike Curato is a compelling graphic novel praised for its heartfelt storytelling and vivid illustrations that effectively capture the struggles of adolescence, identity, and self-acceptance. While the book receives accolades for its honesty and emotional depth, some critics note its intense themes might be overwhelming for younger readers. Overall, it stands as a powerful narrative with strong visual impact.
Who Should Read Flamer?
Readers who would enjoy Mike Curato's Flamer are typically teens and young adults navigating their identities, especially those who appreciated Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli or Drama by Raina Telgemeier. This book tackles themes of self-discovery, bullying, and coming-of-age with a poignant, relatable narrative in a graphic novel format.
11,110 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Elias Schaefer
Elias Schaefer
Aiden's tentmate and friend at camp known for his kindness and inclusivity. He provides a supportive presence and shares a mutual feeling of being an outsider.
Scout Leader Ted
Scout Leader Ted
A scout leader who supports Aiden and serves as a positive role model. He provides guidance and understanding at camp, offering insight into navigating identity within a challenging environment.
Mark Jones
Mark Jones
A member of Aiden's Boy Scout patrol who often challenges Aiden's differences under the guise of concern. His interactions with Aiden reflect the pressure to conform to social norms.
David Green
David Green
A friend of Aiden's at camp who shares a love of X-Men and mutual concerns about high school. Their friendship is marked by genuine connection and mutual support, offering Aiden a rare sense of belonging.
368
Graphic Novel/Book • Fiction
Summer Camp • 1990s
2020
YA
14-18 years
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