Thinking Queerly Medievalism, Wizardry, and Neurodiversity in Young Adult Texts

Why do we love wizards? Where do these magical figures come from? Thinking Queerly traces the wizard from medieval Arthurian literature to contemporary YA adaptations. By exploring the link between Merlin and Harry Potter, or Morgan le Fay and Sabrina, readers will see how the wizard offers spaces of hope and transformation for young readers. In particular, this book examines how wizards think differently, and how this difference can resonate with both LGBTQ and neurodivergent readers, who've been told they don't fit in. Jes Battis (he/they) teaches literature and creative writing with an emphasis on the Middle Ages and the eighteenth century. Previous publications include Mastering the Game of Thrones (with Dr. Susan Johnston) and Supernatural Youth.