JYOTI RAJAN GOPAL
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Picture
Order Desert Queen Here
Link to Teacher Guide


​​"​In his desert world
there are lines in the sand
that keep you in your place.
Boy OR girl.
Man OR woman.
The boy knows this."
Picture
    

 "This picture book biography, spun in vibrant verse, traces the journey of a beloved Rajasthani drag performer who defied tradition and dazzled the  world.".
A 2024 ALA Stonewall Honor Book
Kirkus Best Books of 2023
BookPage Best 10 Picture Books of 2023
Book List Best Books of 2023
CCBC Best Books 2024


6 stars for DESERT QUEEN!
“A love letter to gender fluidity, accompanied by stunning art full of vibrancy and warmth.” – Betsy Bird, Fuse8

★ “Vibrant, kaleidoscopic illustrations inspired by the desert environs and the textiles, architecture, and artwork of the city of Jaisalmer capture the joyful dancer's whirling and swirling movements… Lyrical poetry mirrors the sounds and beats of the local folk music and complements the dreamlike visuals. Evocative and electrifying.”– Kirkus (starred)

★ "...this powerful biographical picture book is both a celebration of art and a manifesto for living on one's own terms" - Publisher's Weekly (starred)

★ "As gorgeous and indefinable as Queen Harish herself, this book belongs on every shelf. " - Booklist (starred)

★ "Desert Queen is a fearlessly triumphant depiction of the wonder, magic and sparkle of dance." - BookPage (starred)

★ "Celebratory...striking." Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (starred)

★ "..this picture book is nothing short of brilliant. An essential purchase." 
School Library Journal (starred)

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  • Home
  • About
  • Books
    • American Desi
    • My Paati's Saris
    • Desert Queen
    • One Sweet Song
    • Sister Day
    • Love is Here With You: A Lullaby of Blessings
  • Deal Announcements
  • Author Visits
  • Contact
  • IN THE MEDIA
  • Inspiration
  • Resources
    • For Writers >
      • KidLit Community
      • Blogs
    • For Teachers >
      • Poetry in your classroom
      • The Story of Words
      • The Story of Play
      • Science is Everywhere
      • Publications and Presentations