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.
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 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 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