All Boys Aren't Blue

Content Warning: Part 2, Chapter 8 references anti-gay bias, while Part 2, Chapter 9 alludes to HIV/AIDS. The Part 2 Analysis discusses slavery, HIV/AIDS, racism, and anti-LGBTQ+ bias.

“Dear Little Brother” is a short letter addressed to Johnson’s younger brother, Garrett. Garrett, who is cisgender and heterosexual, is proof that anti-queer bias is not innate, sharing a deep bond with his older sibling. Johnson especially appreciates Garrett never making Johnson feel as if they had to separate their Blackness and queerness when so many others did.

Chapter 7 is about Johnson’s maternal grandmother, Nanny. Johnson spent most of their after-school hours at Nanny’s house (the “Big House”) as a child due to their parents’ work schedules. Nanny spent most of her time raising her grandchildren when their parents were unable to.

As Johnson grows older, they begin self-isolating due to their queerness and the pressure to conform. Nanny senses this and takes Johnson under her wing, becoming their best friend in the process. Nanny openly accepts them when they come out as gay later in life. Johnson credits her for making them who they are.