Rebellious: The Story of Keith Haring in 12 Pictures

Review Quotes:
What makes this book special is its expansive heart... This work will speak to many teenagers who are struggling to love themselves. During hostile times, Haring was an out and proud gay man who made art for ordinary people who were ignored by the art world. An honest, inspiring behind-the-scenes look into the highs and lows of an artist's life.-- "Kirkus Reviews"

Review Quotes:
Absorbing... This well-researched and highly engaging narrative is infused with photographs from Haring's life, deepening readers' connection to the artist. Long's easily accessible writing also explores Haring's artistic style and activism, which includes his contributions to projects like Free South Africa and ACT UP, making this a versatile work that crosses multiple curricula.... A fascinating page-turner about an important artist that belongs in all libraries.-- "School Library Journal (starred review)"

Review Quotes:
This exuberant, uplifting biography will inspire and encourage teens to more closely observe and engage with their surroundings as a means to spark creativity and connection.-- "Publishers Weekly (starred review)"

Review Quotes:
The book's eye-catching format and hand-held size will speak to teens interested in something a bit rebellious and odd... Long's writing is inviting and inquisitive while maintaining an air of authority, a perfect blend for this age group.-- "Youth Services Book Review (five stars)"

Publisher Marketing:

As an artist and activist, one theme remained a constant throughout Keith Haring's life: rebellion. In this young adult biography, acclaimed author Michael G. Long examines Haring's upbringing and career through this lens: hosting queer people and people of color at high-art gallery openings; refusing to use mediums and art styles that his professors required; coming out as a gay man and exploring his sexual experiences through his art; drawing guerilla-style on the New York subway; and painting in protest of nuclear weaponry, police brutality, racism, the spread of crack cocaine, and, most famously, the AIDS epidemic.

With each chapter anchored by an iconic work of Haring's art, Rebellious is a pacy, energetic, and accessible look at Keith Haring's unconventional life and how his paintings shaped and reflected the world around him--and how they still resonate today.

Review Citations:

• Publishers Weekly 04/06/2026 (EAN 9781324083948, Hardcover) - *Starred Review
• School Library Journal 05/01/2026 pg. 95 (EAN 9781324083948, Hardcover) - *Starred Review
• Kirkus Reviews 05/15/2026 (EAN 9781324083948, Hardcover)

Contributor Bio:Long, Michael G
Michael G. Long is the author of several books on politics, nonviolent protests, and civil rights history. His commentary about civil rights has appeared in the Afro, the Los Angeles Times, and ESPN. He lives in Camp Hill, PA.