A book titled the “DC Book of Pride” featuring many well-known superheroes, such as Superman and a “non-binary” Flash, is set to hit shelves on May 16, 2023.
The book will be be published by DK of Random House and is written and curated by transgender author Jadzia Axelrod. The project is pitched as a “celebration of LGBTQ+ characters within the DC universe” and expand’s DC’s 2021 and 2022 “Pride Anthologies”.
Alexrod is also the co-creator of DC’s new transgender alien superhero, Taylor Barzelay.
To everyone who told me, "You know so much about queer superheroes, you should write a book," I have some excellent news: https://t.co/GHRIZUsd96 pic.twitter.com/Ptuph0Dx2u
— Jadzia Axelrod 🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️ (@planetx) September 6, 2022
The DC Book of Pride creators claim it will detail the lives of several superheroes, including Superman, Green Lantern, Robin, and even Flash who is described as “non-binary”. Flash’s illustration page uses “they/them” pronouns.
The book also includes a transgender heroine called “Dreamer” and a lesbian “Batwoman”.
As with DC’s other pride anthologies, the book will feature short tales following over 50 superheroes in comic book format.
In a press release, DC describes the book as an illustration of the “the rich histories, fascinating origins, amazing superpowers, and key storylines of DC’s leading queer Super Heroes and Super-Villains.”
Given that these books are clearly categorized as for children and young teens, some controversy has arisen from the pride anthologies. The exclusive focus on relationships have led to claims that this isn’t appropriate for children.
That said, the previous entries in the anthology series have been met with critical acclaim. Only time will tell if the anthology will continue forward.
Over the last several years, DC Comics has made the move to include a representation of diverse “queer” identities. This shift in focus has resulted in backlash from comic fans, who have questioned the necessity in changing the backstories and identities of various well-loved characters.
On the other hand, DC has been commended as inclusive by LGBTQ+ fans.
DC’s 2023 Pride collection of books and comics will drop throughout May, coinciding with June’s Pride Month.
