Pride Month (or LGBTQ+ History Month) is upon us and with that comes a fresh set of LGBTQ+ book recommendations. Whether you’re seeking stories of love, friendship or non-fiction books about the community and its history, our curated list of queer book recommendations offers something for everyone.
We urge you to not limit your reading of queer books to just Pride month! Celebrate queer stories all year round, and happy Pride!
Author: Casey McQuiston
Dive into a whirlwind romance between the First Son of the United States and the Prince of Wales in this modern queer classic. McQuiston’s charming narrative celebrates love across borders, offering a refreshing take on queer relationships in the public eye. This delightful rom-com is perfect for Pride Month, blending humor, heart, and political intrigue into an irresistible read.
Author: Angela Chen
Chen’s book challenges misconceptions and stereotypes around asexuality, a sexual orientation often neglected in LGBTQ+ spaces and discussions. Through personal anecdotes and research, Chen sheds light on the diverse experiences within the ace community and what it means to identify within the asexual spectrum in today’s society. Whether you are ace, know someone who is, or simply want to broaden your perspective, Ace is an essential read that promotes inclusivity and intersectionality with race and disability.
Author: Nemat Sadat
Set in 1970s Afghanistan, the book follows the journey of Kanishka Nurzada, a young man discovering his sexuality amidst political turmoil and societal expectations. What sets this novel apart from its contemporaries is its rich depiction of Afghan culture and the focus on discovery of oneself outside of queerness too, making this is a well-rounded read. The Carpet Weaver is hence a powerful reminder of the universality of love and the fight for freedom.
Author: Sachin Kundalkar, translated by Jerry Pinto
Kundalkar’s work explores love and loss through the perspectives of a brother and sister, both enamored with the same man. Set in India, the novel delves into themes of desire, identity, sexual awakening, sensory experiences and familial expectations. Cobalt Blue sheds light on the complexities of LGBTQ+ lives in a conservative society, doing so by offering first-person points of view of both siblings.
Author: Philippe Besson, translated by Molly Ringwald
Set in 1984 France, it follows the clandestine romance between two teenage boys, Philippe and Thomas. Besson’s poetic writing and poignant reflections on youth, desire, and memory make this novel a deeply moving read. Although much sadder than the previous recommendations, Lie With Me offers a timeless story that resonates with anyone who has experienced the emotions that come with first love. It’s a beautiful testament to the power of love and the bittersweet nature of growing up.
Author: Ciara Smyth
Saoirse, a cynical teenager, has sworn off serious relationships after a family tragedy. Enter Ruby, who convinces Saoirse to embark on a summer romance full of classic rom-com moments with no strings attached. As they recreate iconic movie scenes, romantic feelings blossom, challenging Saoirse’s guarded heart. Smyth’s witty dialogue and authentic characters make this novel a heartwarming exploration of love, grief, and self-discovery. It’s an ideal pick for those seeking an uplifting and lighthearted queer and lesbian romance.
Check out some of our other book recommendations on the queer coming-of-age experience:
If You Loved Heartstopper, You Will Love These Queer Coming-Of-Age Books
