Desert Queen by Jyoti Rajan Gopal

This picture book biography in verse follows the life of beloved Rajasthani
drag performer Queen Harish, known as the Whirling Desert Queen of
Rajasthan. Lit by an inner fire and propelled by a family tragedy, Harish defied
the gender conventions of middle class Indian life, battled discrimination and
intimidation, and eventually grew up to dance with Bollywood movie stars and
on stages across the world.
Jyoti Gopal's rhythmic phrases evoke the particular sounds and beats of the
music Harish danced to, and capture the passions and conflicts of his life. The
poignant and inspiring tale is interpreted by internationally acclaimed
Rajasthani artist Svabhu Kohli in kohl-black lines and shapes and brilliant
jewel-like colors.

Jyoti Rajan Gopalis the author of American Desi and My Paati's Saris .
Growing up, she lived in Thailand, Indonesia, Myanmar, India and China. She
now lives in New York, in a quirky old Victorian in Yonkers, with her husband,
where they raised their two daughters. Her favorite place in the house is the
wrap around porch where she loves to gather with family or friends, read,
write and drink coffee.

Svabhu Kohli is an visual storyteller. His practice focuses on the intersection
of magical realism, conservation and art as a medium to understand our
relationship with the universe and its complex life forms. He has illustrated for
Google Doodle, The Guardian and GQ. The Desert Queen is his first book for
children

Levine Querido
On Sale: Oct 3/23
7.5 x 11 • 50 pages
9781646142620 • $28.99 • CL - HC - Hardcover
Ages 4-8 years