Shelby Criswell is a queer comics creator living in San Antonio, TX. They studied studio arts at the Santa Fe Institute of Art and Design as well as illustration at Academy of Arts University. Shelby is an author of the TERMINAL PUNKS comic series and has also illustrated comics for THE NIB.

“While there have been several collective biographies published about notable historical LGBTQIA+ figures in the last decade, none feel as personal, relevant, and engaging as this one. The decentering of cis gay men allows for a necessary spotlight on lesser-known (but no less important) subjects. . . . Unique in both format and content, this important book is a first choice to help diversify teen graphic nonfiction collections.” —Starred Review, School Library Journal“As White, nonbinary college student Criswell wanders around San Antonio, Texas, they unpack the complexities of Southern identity and begin to research, draw, and discuss significant icons with friends. Accompanying them on this journey, readers meet history-makers who are often overlooked by mainstream U.S. sources—people who broaden Criswell's understanding of the difficulties facing those who have fought for LGBTQ+ justice around the world. . . . A highly personal addition to the body of LGBTQ+ stories.” —Kirkus Reviews“Part personal history, part showcase of heroes, and part resource guide. This is a great start for students writing reports or anyone looking for a new hero.” —Booklist, from the American Library Association“A thoughtful exploration of the lives of often overlooked queer heroes. These people fought for the freedoms we have today, and lived unapologetic lives against the odds.” —Maia Kobabe, author of Gender Queer: A Memoir“A beautiful showcase of what it’s like to have a conversation with history. Queer people have existed throughout time and their lives echo in our actions and our love.” —Archie Bongiovanni, author of A Quick and Easy Guide to They/Them Pronouns“I can't wait to gift this queer history book to every teen I know. Shelby Criswell's personal reflections on queer and trans icons who carving out their own ways to thrive reminds me of how resilient and wonderful humans can be.” —Sarah Mirk, author of Guantanamo Voices“A delightful tour of personal heroes—people who lived with bravery, integrity, and creativity—visualizing the proud history of sexual and gender diversity.” —Hazel Newlevant, author of No Ivy League“An outstanding collection of the vital stories of important and under-heralded queer figures, paired with Shelby's always excellent art and a touching personal narrative.” —Matt Lubchansky, artist and associate editor of The Nib“An illuminating read about the lives of ten lesser-known queer historical heroes, drawn in an engaging and personable fashion.” —Melanie Gillman, author of As the Crow Flies and Stage Dreams“An exciting, essential addition to the queer canon. Shining a light on a diverse group on extraordinary queer folks from the past, and reminding us exactly why these stories are so vital. This book is a treasure!” —Ashley Robin Franklin, author of That Full Moon Feeling“Books like this are so important! Just by reading about the queer activists of our past, a community forms around you. And that community will give you power.” —Steenz, cartoonist of Heart of the City“A heartfelt love letter to the oft-forgot pioneers of the global queer movement.” —Ronnie Garcia, an illustrator in Puerto Rico Strong

Shelby Criswell is a queer comics creator living in San Antonio, TX. They studied studio arts at the Santa Fe Institute of Art and Design as well as illustration at Academy of Arts University. Shelby is an author of the TERMINAL PUNKS comic series and has also illustrated comics for THE NIB.

“While there have been several collective biographies published about notable historical LGBTQIA+ figures in the last decade, none feel as personal, relevant, and engaging as this one. The decentering of cis gay men allows for a necessary spotlight on lesser-known (but no less important) subjects. . . . Unique in both format and content, this important book is a first choice to help diversify teen graphic nonfiction collections.” —Starred Review, School Library Journal“As White, nonbinary college student Criswell wanders around San Antonio, Texas, they unpack the complexities of Southern identity and begin to research, draw, and discuss significant icons with friends. Accompanying them on this journey, readers meet history-makers who are often overlooked by mainstream U.S. sources—people who broaden Criswell's understanding of the difficulties facing those who have fought for LGBTQ+ justice around the world. . . . A highly personal addition to the body of LGBTQ+ stories.” —Kirkus Reviews“Part personal history, part showcase of heroes, and part resource guide. This is a great start for students writing reports or anyone looking for a new hero.” —Booklist, from the American Library Association“A thoughtful exploration of the lives of often overlooked queer heroes. These people fought for the freedoms we have today, and lived unapologetic lives against the odds.” —Maia Kobabe, author of Gender Queer: A Memoir“A beautiful showcase of what it’s like to have a conversation with history. Queer people have existed throughout time and their lives echo in our actions and our love.” —Archie Bongiovanni, author of A Quick and Easy Guide to They/Them Pronouns“I can't wait to gift this queer history book to every teen I know. Shelby Criswell's personal reflections on queer and trans icons who carving out their own ways to thrive reminds me of how resilient and wonderful humans can be.” —Sarah Mirk, author of Guantanamo Voices“A delightful tour of personal heroes—people who lived with bravery, integrity, and creativity—visualizing the proud history of sexual and gender diversity.” —Hazel Newlevant, author of No Ivy League“An outstanding collection of the vital stories of important and under-heralded queer figures, paired with Shelby's always excellent art and a touching personal narrative.” —Matt Lubchansky, artist and associate editor of The Nib“An illuminating read about the lives of ten lesser-known queer historical heroes, drawn in an engaging and personable fashion.” —Melanie Gillman, author of As the Crow Flies and Stage Dreams“An exciting, essential addition to the queer canon. Shining a light on a diverse group on extraordinary queer folks from the past, and reminding us exactly why these stories are so vital. This book is a treasure!” —Ashley Robin Franklin, author of That Full Moon Feeling“Books like this are so important! Just by reading about the queer activists of our past, a community forms around you. And that community will give you power.” —Steenz, cartoonist of Heart of the City“A heartfelt love letter to the oft-forgot pioneers of the global queer movement.” —Ronnie Garcia, an illustrator in Puerto Rico Strong