Coming of age tales often play a huge part in our formative experiences as young people, but it’s rare that queer young people see ourselves reflected in the media we consume, though this has slowly been changing with incredible books like Jillian and Mariko Tamaki’s This One Summer, Lumberjanes, and so many more! Another amazing story is Lemonade Summer by Gabi Mendez, which is currently running a Kickstarter to fund the publication of this kid-friendly LGBTQ story about “young, queer characters who grapple with the conflicts of their own worlds. The characters in these stories come of age in positive environments and find supportive communities.”
Mendez told us that “Lemonade Summer is a collection of stories I’ve made at different points in my life that all have the same purpose–to help the people who don’t often get the spotlight be seen.” We were lucky enough to get a glimpse at Lemonade Summer and the comic is lovely, showcasing a positive, sweet, and loving representation of the young queer experience! Mendez is clearly an amazing talent, and her sweet, soft art is a wonder to behold.
We’ve made a gallery full of Mendez’s gorgeous art for you to flick through, and you can support this great comic right here! We’re excited to see what Mendez does next and can’t wait for Lemonade Summer to make its way into libraries and comic shops around the country!
Do you have a favorite queer comic book? Can’t wait to support this rad Kickstarter? Just want to make your own comics? Let us know below!
Images: Cow House Press
