The Backstagers Vol. 1: Rebels Without Applause
by James Tynion IV, Rian Sygh (Illustrator), Walter Baiamonte (Illustrator)
4 Stars
Jory has just started at a new all boys high school. After spending his first morning hiding in the bushes he decides (with a big push from his mom) to try and join the Drama Club. After being sent on a mission to find a prop for the Drama Clubs stars he stumbles across The Backstagers. The stage crew at the school who take him in and don't treat him like a new kid. What follows is far from a traditional backstage experience, considering that the backstage is a magical place with a life of it's own.
This was super cute and featured an extremely diverse array of characters. This includes BIPOC and LGBTQ characters. My favorite part about it is that it's never addressed in any specific way. There is a Trans character that although he is Trans it's never mentioned or used as a plot device. You honestly just figure it out based on context clues. There are also multiple m/m relationships that are sweet and adorable. It lacks any sense of toxic masculinity and every character shows emotion throughout the series. I highly highly suggest this book to anyone who wants a positive diverse comic.