School Library Journal Review
Gr 5--8--Grace, a young transgender woman, is attempting to outrun the Civil War. Though she identifies as female, she was assigned male at birth. The Confederate army in her native Georgia sees her as a worthy soldier, but she's got other plans. Grace has made it as far as the New Mexico territory, aiming for acceptance and freedom in San Francisco. She is kidnapped by the legendary bandit Ghost Hawk, who is said to be half woman, half hawk. But Ghost Hawk, or Flor, is simply a woman, and a sympathetic and affirming one at that. Romance blossoms, and they bond over their shared yet different manifestations of gender nonconformity; Flor identifies as a woman, but her masculine dress and brusque nature are at odds with traditional gender roles of the time. With the New Mexico territory on the brink of Confederate takeover, Flor and Grace have a chance to team up and spy on the Confederate forces for the Union, raising the stakes of their westward adventure. Exploring themes of gender nonconformity and transgender identity, Gillman deftly avoids anachronisms through their emotive and subtle characterizations of Grace and Flor. The illustrations are gently shaded in colored pencil, the softness underscoring the sweetness of the characters. Despite the rough, Wild West setting, Gillman finds opportunities for tender moments. A thoughtfully researched appendix provides ample historical context. VERDICT This charming and poignant queer romance set against a Civil War--era backdrop will resonate with readers.--Anna Murphy, Berkeley Carroll School, Brooklyn
Publisher's Weekly Review
The Ghost Hawk--otherwise known as Flor--is a queer Latinx bandit with a bird-of-prey helpmate who wields a six-shooter and wears a leather hat atop her voluminous black mane. In the New Mexico Territory circa 1861, stagecoach passengers pass the time making conversation about Civil War strategies and Southwestern desperados. On cue, Flor swoops in, demanding loot and kidnapping a Southern belle, who modestly hides her face under a green bonnet. "Fine young ladies always make for the best ransoms--and company!" Flor quips with a lascivious wink. ("Despite appearances, it ain't my intent to hurt you," she later says, while tying her captive to a tree.) When Flor removes her prisoner's bonnet, however, she meets an angry, green-eyed, apparently transgender beauty named Grace, who is en route to "the theater in San Francisco" and on the run from "conscription" into the Confederacy. Both are smitten, and nervy Flor now has an accomplice for a daring plot involving a sly tailor, ball gowns, and espionage. Euphemisms and ambiguity leave readers to connect the dots in this Wild West whirlwind, though Grace's peach-fuzz facial hair implies trans identity. Gillman, whose As the Crow Flies was named a Stonewall Honor Book, delves into queer history and spins a witty and extravagant yarn about a dashing duo. Ages 13--up. (Sept.)
