The young boy protagonist here loves his Uncle Leo, an accountant, and his Auntie Lotta, a drag queen—who are both the same person. One day at a Pride parade, Auntie Lotta saves a dog from being hit by a truck, and the mayor plans an award ceremony. Uncle Leo wants to invite many friends, but doesn’t know who should accept the award, Leo or Lotta—the friends who know one might be surprised to see the other. The boy helps craft a “fierce” look for Leo/Lotta that incorporates both aspects of his “Auntie Uncle’s” personality. All the friends applaud in a happy denouement.
An introduction by Marti Gould Cummings, a drag artist and self-identified “auntie uncle” to 20 nieces and nephews, explains that “Drag is an art form that is rooted in activism and protest; a way to show the world that being different is beautiful.” The protagonist’s love for his Auntie Uncle sends a strong message to young readers that this is indeed true.
