One Day in June: A Story Inspired by the Life and Activism of Marsha P. Johnson

Ages 4 to 8, Grades P to 3

You can sparkle, shimmer, shine – just like Marsha did.

This vibrant and joyful picture book celebrates the legacy of Marsha P. Johnson, a Black trans woman and activist who played an instrumental role during the Stonewall Riots that lead to PRIDE month, written by award-winning filmmaker and artist Tourmaline.

You wouldn’t even believe the things Saint Marsha used to get up to—she had more of a zest for life than anyone I’ve ever known, and the biggest heart, too.

It’s a hot summer day and New York City is buzzing like a hive of eager honeybees. From Riis Beach to the Flower District, into the West Village and over to the Brooklyn Museum, folks young and old embrace the resolute and love-filled spirit of icon activist Marsha P. Johnson in all that they do.

Told through the eyes of an old friend and with bright, buoyant artwork, this jubilant story celebrates the indelible stamp that Marsha P. Johnson left on New York City and beyond, culminating in a powerful convergence one day in June 2020, when activists from across all five boroughs rallied loudly for Black trans lives.

The spirit of Marsha has never been more alive and present in what we do.

About the Author

Tourmaline is an award-winning artist, filmmaker, cultural producer, writer, and activist whose work is dedicated to aestheticizing Black trans survival, beauty, and liberation. Tourmaline has been credited with bringing Marsha P. Johnson’s story, previously lost to history, forward in the public eye. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @tourmaliiine.

Charlot Kristensen is a Dublin based illustrator, designer, and author. As a Black artist she often depicts underrepresented characters in empowering ways to help change their narratives. Some of her most renowned clients include HuffPost, Google, Penguin Random House and the New York Times. Charlot's graphic novel, What We Don’t Talk About, published by Avery Hill, is now out. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @Zolwia.