Written by Giovanna Napoleone
"Insecurity of identity in high school whether you are LGBTQ+ or not is faced by all characters of the book, whose inner struggles are reflected by the personal point of view used to write each piece..."
The unique format of Everything Under the Rainbow is a testament to how much Leonard cares about his readers, and a fresh take on a new and pressing issue - LGBTQ rights, safety, and community internationally. Short stories followed by advice based on topics such as the LGBTQ+ community's mental health and bullying are significant ways to educate yourself and become more aware of the struggles in other's lives and how to help yourself or your community.
"Alright, name, pronouns and your summer plans." - Mrs. Linn from Summer Solitude
The entire collection starts off with "Summer Solitude" - a story in which an ordinary experience turns into a relatable one as Leonard experiments greatly with characters who struggle with identity and a feeling of loneliness so common in the 21st century that it is hard not to appreciate the warmth attached to this piece of writing from the start. Overall, the messages and stories told by Leonard aren't incredibly different from others currently published, however, his realistic fiction paired with shocking statistics on how many kids are bullied in school for their sexual orientation and how little resources they get causes Leonard to make an even greater distinction between this work and others addressing the struggles of the LGBTQ+ community.
Insecurity of identity in high school whether you are LGBTQ+ or not is faced by all characters of the book, whose inner struggles are reflected by the personal point of view used to write each piece. The short stories "It Itches in the Dark" and "Dad Jokes" show the darker side of being a part of the LGBTQ+ community, and the inner struggles that make an impact on how these persons perceive themselves in comparison to others around them.
"Life-changing is such a vast word." - Lily from Dad Jokes
According to Leonard, about 24% of LGBTQ+ people have not been honest with their family members about being part of the LGBTQ+ community (GOV, 2017) - a notion incredibly unbelievable to many readers who may not know anyone of that identification themselves. This is only one reason why Leonard's work is so appreciated and important for readers, as it can help them form a more open mind about a community that exists beyond their borders and become more accepting of their humanity. The hotlines and websites provided as tools by Leonard for his readers to access add greatly to the cause of promoting and supporting the LGBTQ+ community, as it creates a safe space for people to go to in times of need, such as in the scenarios outlined within the fictional stories themselves.
"82% of LGBTQ+ people are open about their identities to all or most of their friends." (GOV, 2017)
The fact above seems almost impossible given the perspective of the rest of the facts and sad truths regarding what the LGBTQ+ community faces today, however, with it, Leonard urges his readers to consider whether or not their own peers and family members have been honest with them, and if they have, consider using their friendships to make them feel more comfortable in their environment and skin. The fluctuating events of tragic and happy stories such as "Dear Diary" and "Me, My Girlfriend and God" create tension and contrast that allow the reader to think deeply on the multifaceted conditions of being LGBTQ+.
Overall, Leonard creates an interesting and timely work for young readers to approach with thought and care as they consider their own identity and values, as well as resources to help them along the way.