Are you a friend of Dorothy?
Book Review: Are You a Friend of Dorothy? by Kyle Lukoff, Illustrated by Levi Hastings
Are You a Friend of Dorothy? is a brilliantly crafted and deeply meaningful picture book that blends storytelling, history, and LGBTQ+ identity into a beautifully illustrated narrative for young readers—and the adults who guide them. Written by acclaimed author Kyle Lukoff and illustrated by Levi Hastings, this book introduces children to an important piece of queer history in a way that is accessible, celebratory, and empowering.
A Hidden History, Made Visible
The phrase “a friend of Dorothy” has long been used as a coded way for LGBTQ+ people—especially gay men—to identify each other during times when being openly queer could lead to discrimination, arrest, or worse. The book takes this historical phrase and builds a thoughtful story around it, exploring how queer people formed communities, supported each other, and created safety in secrecy. Lukoff doesn't shy away from the realness of oppression, but his tone is always hopeful and age-appropriate.
This book isn’t just about a secret phrase—it’s about survival, solidarity, and the power of chosen family. Through the metaphor of Dorothy (yes, of Wizard of Oz fame), the book gently teaches that LGBTQ+ history is rich with creativity and resilience, even when the world wasn’t safe.
Visual Storytelling That Shines
Levi Hastings' illustrations are a perfect match for the story. With vibrant, expressive faces and warm, vintage-inspired tones, the visuals draw the reader into both a historical past and a present moment of joy. His art captures the nuance of community and secrecy, pride and connection. For children, these visuals are engaging and fun; for adults, they’re layered with meaning.
Why This Book Matters
Books like Are You a Friend of Dorothy? are essential because they do what history books often fail to do: make invisible stories visible. By personifying “Dorothy” as a sort of imaginary protector and code word, Lukoff teaches children about solidarity and the history of coded language used by oppressed groups without ever overwhelming them.
It’s a reminder that LGBTQ+ people have always existed, always found ways to thrive, and always helped each other—sometimes through something as simple as a question: “Are you a friend of Dorothy?”
Final Thoughts
Kyle Lukoff’s storytelling is poignant and poetic, and Levi Hastings’ illustrations give life to a narrative long left in the shadows. This book belongs in every school, library, and home that values inclusivity, historical truth, and compassion. It opens the door for important conversations and honors those who came before us with kindness and pride.
Whether you’re a child learning about LGBTQ+ history for the first time or an adult who remembers what it was like to look for signs of acceptance, this book offers a heartwarming and vital message: You’re not alone. You never were.
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I remember the first time I heard the phrase 'Are you a friend of Dorothy?' It sounded so innocent, like a casual inquiry about a mutual acquaintance. But as I delved deeper into LGBTQ+ history, I discovered the profound, often poignant, true story behind this seemingly simple question. It wasn’t just about making friends; it was a lifeline, a secret handshake in a world that often forced queer individuals into the shadows. This *code name*, 'friend of Dorothy,' emerged decades ago, likely in the mid-20th century, as a discreet way for gay men to identify each other without explicitly outing themselves. Its origins are widely believed to stem from Judy Garland's iconic role as Dorothy Gale in 'The Wizard of Oz.' Garland herself became a beloved gay icon, and her character Dorothy, who welcomed a diverse group of outsiders and longed for a place 'over the rainbow' where she belonged, resonated deeply with the queer community. For many, the phrase was a subtle nod, a hopeful whisper that you might be in safe company in a time when being openly gay could lead to severe social ostracism, job loss, or even legal repercussions. Imagine being in a new city or a crowded room, feeling isolated, and hearing someone ask, 'Are you a friend of Dorothy?' It was an invitation, a signal of shared understanding and potential solidarity. It built bridges between strangers, fostering a sense of community when public spaces and conversations were often hostile. This wasn't merely a playful reference; it was a vital survival mechanism, allowing people to find chosen family and support networks in secret. The beauty of this coded language, and what Kyle Lukoff's book so brilliantly captures, is how it highlights human ingenuity and resilience in the face of adversity. It reminds us that LGBTQ+ people have always existed, always found ways to connect, to love, and to thrive, even when society tried to erase them. It's a testament to the power of shared culture and symbols in creating belonging. In today's more open, though still evolving, world, phrases like 'friend of Dorothy' might seem like relics of the past. However, understanding their history is crucial. It honors the struggles and triumphs of previous generations, and it underscores the ongoing importance of safe spaces and inclusive language. Learning about these 'true stories' helps us appreciate how far we've come and how much more journey there is. So, next time you hear or see 'Are you a friend of Dorothy?', remember the rich tapestry of history, courage, and community woven into those simple words. It’s more than a book title; it’s a piece of our collective past that continues to resonate.
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