Make your own rainbow A drag queen's guide to color

A group of drag queens "speak our minds bravely" and "always make sure our inner beauty is reflected in our outer bling" across dozens of hues in this colorful account of creating "our own rainbows." The performers are shown wearing myriad colors and styles, from "RELIABLE RED" in shades of "SCARLET! CRIMSON! MAROON! RUST!" to "PLAIN OLD PURPLE" in "AMETHYST! LAVENDER! BYZANTIUM!" and more. Short sentences from Lil Miss Hot Mess highlight de Dios's stylized characters, portrayed with various abilities, body types, and skin tones. Fantasy elements and collections of objects representing each color are integrated into the uplifting spreads, which encourage readers to express themselves however they choose. Ages 4--8. (May)

Colors of the world, spice up your life! Much like that iconic Spice Girls song, sung by a quintet of beautifully adorned performers, this picture book also features a rainbow of shades and glamorously confident gals. The drag queens (and perhaps a pair of drag kings) in this tale offer an excellent message: Let's learn about colors! Seriously, girl, let'sreally learn them. Drag queen Lil Miss Hot Mess delves into a variety of hues. Readers whose favorite color is "yummy yellow" will eagerly discover citrine, maize, and mustard, for instance. The same applies across all the colors of the rainbow and a few additional shades as well. (We see you, brown!) Along the way, the divas dazzle, presenting readers with more than just a range of colors; the impressively inclusive cast features characters who vary in terms of body shape, skin tone, and physical ability. In the right hands, the book will provide countless interactive opportunities for storytellers to engage young readers, though some details may make the illustrations a little muddled for readers in large-group settings. Overall, though, the artwork is energetic and bold, with characters taking on an appropriately commanding presence. Get ready to see this book sashay off shelves during Pride month--and all year round. Fierce and fun, just like the best queens.(Picture book. 4-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.