Author Paul Waring Reveals an Illustrated Book That Tackles Gay Issues
Portland, Maine (PRWEB) August 28, 2013 -- Children’s picture books depicting gay characters have become the most banned books in America. Even so, they have made a mark over the last two decades. Each book moving the genre forward, but never stating or even using the word “gay” (except once). This avoidance can only continue to teach children that homosexuality is wrong and should be hidden and talked about in hushed tones. George the Gay Lion unashamedly uses the word gay in every way, as the book takes the readers through a coming out story, a search for like-minded individuals, the formation of a new family and the ultimate acceptance of a gay lion. It is the next step in empowering the word gay.
The author, Paul Waring, felt compelled to write this book after watching California propositions 8 take away the right of same sex couples to equality. Having a gay brother who felt he could not safely come out until he was 24 and even then with the belief that his family would disown him, Waring gained an understanding of the complexities and stresses of coming out.
The illustrator, Camilla Ring, met the author in San Francisco and was moved by his desire to speak out against LGBT inequality. She grew up in Texas and spent the majority of her teenage years closeted before coming out in college. Having a strong penchant for illustration, collaborating with Waring was an easy decision for Ring, as George’s story is one she can closely relate to.
George the Gay Lion was written with the strong belief that the creation of a positive, young, gay character will remove the stigma and negative connotations of the word “gay”. It is the hope of the author that this book will do much toward educating children and adults in diversity, creating a platform for the future acceptance of all people, no matter the background or sexual orientation.
Scissor Sisters front man, Jake Shears, is the book’s narrator.
“As soon as I read this book, I knew I wanted to narrate it,” he shares.
For more information on this book, interested parties may log on to http://www.Xlibris.com.
About the Author
Paul Waring was born in England. He moved to New York in 2000. In 2002, he and his wife moved to San Francisco. They have two beautiful daughters and many beautiful gay friends.
George the Gay Lion * by Paul Waring
Publication Date: August 7, 2013
Picture Book; $17.49; 40 pages; 978-1-4836-6081-3
Picture Book Hardcover; $24.99; 40 pages; 978-1-4836-6082-0
Ebook; $3.99; 978-1-4836-6083-7
To request a complimentary paperback review copy, contact the publisher at (888) 795-4274 x. 7879. To purchase copies of the book for resale, please fax Xlibris at (812) 355-4079 or call (888) 795-4274 x. 7879.
For more information, contact Xlibris at (888) 795-4274 or on the web at http://www.Xlibris.com.
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