Leo Rising: Queer Spaces, Sexuality, and Fame

Three queer 20-somethings from “Squarebanks,” Alaska, push each other to find their respective paths—to love, work, and an authentic identity—in this clever graphic novel from Bongiovanni (Mimosa). Laura, an ironically self-proclaimed “gay icon,” vlogs as a #lesbianwarrior. That brand begins to feel confining, however, when Laura develops crushes on men, then starts thinking about becoming one. Rachel has been Laura’s rock since high school, but now she wonders if her dull job at a tour company—not to mention Laura’s self-centeredness—could be holding her back. Court, a trans man and transplant to New York, returns to town to help his emotionally manipulative mom. He encourages his old besties to take stock of their lives. For Laura, this means googling “lesbians who are into men NOT porn,” trying out the name Leo, going on a Grindr-style app, and fumbling through awkward hookups. For Rachel, it means emerging from Laura/Leo’s shadow and starting her own business. Bongiovanni’s loose, confident linework and ensemble of sassy characters make for plenty of affectionate riffs. On-point details of queer life in a small tourist town (Leo works for a combination bird observatory and gift shop) are a fun bonus. This lighthearted but sincere riff on the queer Gen Z zeitgeist hits its mark. (Jan.)