Queer books are becoming more and more mainstream. Whether the author is queer or the story features queer characters, here are nine books we’re excited to share. Kick back this Pride Month with some of our favorite throwback queer books – we promise you’ll be just as obsessed as we are.
Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
The son to the President of the United States, Alex Claremont-Diaz has some serious beef with Britain’s Prince Henry. When the tabloids catch onto their feud, it causes serious problems for both camps, so they create a fake social media friendship to smooth things over. But as the two embark on this new reality where they pretend to get along, they find that they actually have feelings for each other.
In the Dream House: A Memoir by Carmen Maria Machado
In Carmen Maria Machado’s heartbreaking and inspiring new memoir, she discusses a volatile relationship she once had with a woman and the ways in which it shaped the person she would later become. This book breaks down the stereotype that all lesbian relationships are sweet and happy and brings to light the truth about an important topic others don’t normally write about.
Naturally Tan by Tan France
Queer Eye‘s Tan France leaves nothing unsaid in his debut memoir Naturally Tan. From his humble beginnings as a young gay boy to his successful career as a fashion expert and business owner, this book covers it all. If you want a book that will have you in tears from both laughter and heartbreak, you’ll love this summer release.
I Wish You All the Best by Mason Deaver
When high school senior Ben tells their parents that they are nonbinary, they don’t expect to be kicked out of the house. Now living with their estranged sister, Ben knows they must keep their sexuality a secret. But when Ben meets Nathan Allan, they learn that there’s a bright future ahead despite the fact that not everyone will accept them for who they truly are.
On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong
Ocean Vuong’s debut novel is a letter written to a mother who cannot read. The story explores the complexities of a family, their roots and the history they all share. This book covers topics of race, class and masculinity and is a must-read for anyone looking for a powerful story.
The Editor by Steven Rowley
From the author of Lily and the Octopus comes Steven Rowley’s latest hit, The Editor. Writer James Smale has always dreamed of being a bestselling author so when his manuscript gets picked up by a major publisher, he believes he’s finally made it. But when family and relationship issues arise, he realizes he’ll have to rework the ending entirely, learning along the way that his editor has secret motives of her own.
Like A Love Story by Abdi Nazemian
High school student Reza is an Iranian boy who has yet to come to terms with his sexuality – he fears that because he’s gay, he will get AIDS and die. In New York City in 1989, it’s hard for him to ignore the growing AIDS epidemic. When he meets Judy and Art, he learns that friendship and a new growing love can be his true savior.
Out East: Memoir of a Montauk Summer by John Glynn
At 27, John Glynn felt loneliness like never before so he decides to spend the summer at a share house in Montauk called The Hive. His memoir documents his summer – his friendships, conflicts and secrets, and his journey to discover his purpose in life.
Pet by Akwaeke Emezi
Best friends Jam and Redemption have always been told that monsters don’t exist in their town but when a creature emerges from one of Jam’s mother’s paintings, they start to believe that monsters really do exist. This book follows a transgender teen, making it a refreshing read for fans of the YA genre.
*Disclosure: The links above are affiliate links. These picks are editorially selected, but if you purchase, She Reads may get something in return. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
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