Drag queen story returns to library by popular demand

The event, which involves a drag queen reading children’s stories, aims to celebrate inclusion, gender diversity, acceptance, love and literacy.

News that the Drag Queen Story Hour is being repeated has raised eyebrows on social media.

Critics of the experience say it is indoctrination of innocent children and gives an overly-sexualised version of womanhood.

On Twitter, Deputy Barry Brehaut questioned the appropriateness of it.

‘I don’t understand why such acts are not seen as equivalent to “blackfacing” – both rely on grotesque stereotypes. But if parents remain content then that’s their choice ultimately.

‘Discussing how some men choose to represent women shouldn’t actually be that difficult. Sadly, any defence of feminism is seen as an assault on those exploring wider (at times political) agendas.’

Deputy Jonathon Le Tocq chimed in and echoed that view.

‘We live increasingly in a world where certain people seem to have strong values about very particular issues which they seem unable to consistently apply, or to see the lack of coherence in such a worldview.

‘It is certainly not a more liberal or thoughtful environment.’

Last year tickets for the special story time went within a day of being made available and there was a long waiting list.

Many parents welcomed the opportunity for their children to meet people from different walks of life, and understand that gender can be a fluid concept.

The drag queen is called Aida H Dee, and he refers to himself as being on the autism spectrum, and says that his autism is also his ‘super-power’, which leads to his best work and creativity.

Stories to be read this year include We’re Going On A Bear Hunt and The Lion Inside.

There will also be songs, crafts and a photo opportunity.

Saturday’s event is rated as most suitable for children up to the age of 8, and free tickets are available through Eventbrite.

.The Guille-Alles Library is also launching Lit with Liberate this year, which is a new, monthly LBGTQ-themed reading group.

Up for the discussion at the first event this Thursday is the book Tales of the City by Armistead Maupin.

The book has blazed its own trail through popular culture – from a newspaper serial to a classic novel, to a Netflix series that has been watched by millions.

Lit with Liberate is a free reading group that is 18+ and open to all with no need to make a reservation.