One day in June A story inspired by the life and activism of Marsha P. Johnson

In front of a purple timepiece whose design resembles the Riis Park Memorial Clock, a crowd enjoys the surf and sand. "Marsha sure does love this scene," an unnamed narrator declares, "Do you know about Marsha?" The following pages introduce activist Marsha P. Johnson (1945--1992), a Black trans woman, describing in reverent lines and anecdotes the way she moved through the world--she "loved people just as they were, and she had a good time doing it." Tourmaline movingly explains how people still benefit from the figure's work, and how Johnson's dedication to creating change by showing up for others "has never been more alive." Alternating between historical scenes and depictions of a modern-day protest at the Brooklyn Museum, Kristensen's electric-hued illustrations focus solidly on community, affectionately painting Johnson as a larger-than-life star who passed her deep knowledge to others. An author's note concludes. Ages 4--8. (May)

PreS-Gr 3--Transgender artist, activist, and author Tourmaline narrates her debut picture book, a joyful, gentle story that takes readers on a journey through New York City in the context of Marsha P. Johnson's life. While it is not biographical, the story uses Johnson's life to spark inquisitive young minds by encouraging them to consider the meaning of appearance, acceptance, community, and protest. The story shows readers how having joy and the spirit of giving can open up opportunities to help those in need. This work layers tough topics, such as protest and activism, with elements of community and hope. Back matter includes a note from the author that provides context and biographical information about Johnson as well as additional resources for learning and support. Tourmaline's narration is gentle, warm, and well-paced, matching the warmth and joy of the story. There is music throughout to help readers follow transitions between pages and settings. While listening with the printed book would likely build upon the narration, readers will not need the visual cues as the audio includes details matching the background art, such as trumpet music and the sound of kids playing. VERDICT A wonderful addition in all formats that is sure to spark joy and hope as well as big conversations.--Taylor Skorski

On a day in June 2020, people across New York City gather in defense of Black trans lives--and to honor queer activist and icon Marsha P. Johnson (1945-1992). "You see…the way we are exactly ourselves, no more, no less? That's because of Marsha." Addressing both a young child and readers, a Black caregiver offers glimpses of Marsha's life: her style, her attitude, her struggles, but most especially her seemingly simple but radical acts of kindness and acceptance. Connecting these past moments to the present, Tourmaline's text is wonderfully light on its feet, dancing through rather than around the threats faced by Marsha and by Black trans people today while also showing that the sunshine of connection and joy is more than a match for the shadow of all-too-real struggle. A distinctly intergenerational pulse thrums under every word, emphasizing the storytelling and living knowledge at the heart of queer, trans, and Black community resilience and resistance. Kristensen's illustrations bring Marsha's full glory to bear as she sweeps not only skirts too fabulous for words, but also a larger-than-life light across the cityscape of her home and her people. Most impressively, Tourmaline brings Marsha the icon into the more intimate space of Marsha the person as she finds joy in accepting herself and others, knowing "that's how we change the world"--something the youngest of readers will understand they can do. A tribute as bright, luxuriant, and giving as Marsha herself. (author's note, additional resources)(Informational picture book. 3-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.