The books on this list will help you learn about queer history and explore queer stories.
Clouds Cannot Cover Us by Jay Hulme
This collection of poems cover everything from Jay's journey growing up in a working-class family in Leicestershire to his feelings and thoughts about school life and his experience as a transgender teenager.
Cinderella is Dead by Kalynn Bayron
It’s 200 years after Cinderella found her prince, but Sixteen-year-old Sophia would much rather marry Erin, her childhood best friend, than a prince. This fresh take on a classic story will make readers question the tales they’ve been told, and root for girls to break down the constructs of the world around them.
Boy Meets Boy by David Levithan
Paul has been gay his whole life and he’s confident about almost everything. He doesn’t have to hide his feelings like best friend Tony or even cope with loving the wrong guy like his other best friend Joni. But heartbreak can happen to anyone. Falling in love changes everything.
Queer, There and Everywhere by Sarah Prager
Learn about queer rights movements through the stories of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer individuals who made world history. This accessible book is the perfect intro or addition to any teenager’s journey learning about queer history.
The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta
Atta’s debut novel about a mixed race, gay teen is full of positivity, love, celebration, pride and fabulous flamboyance. But this isn’t just a great read, it’s also a book about having the bravery to accept yourself, and to share that person with the world.
Gears for Queers by Abigail Melton and Lilith Cooper
While it’s a great book about cycling around Europe, it’s also about existing as two queer people, making friends, taking on a landscape, and “being”.
Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender
Felix Love fears that being black, queer and transgender will prevent him from finding his happy ending. This young adult novel tells the story of a trans teen tumbling through love toward the realisation that the person who most deserves it is himself.
The Henna Wars by Adiba Jaigirdar
When henna business entrepreneur Nishat comes out to her family, they ask her to stay in the closet. So when Flavia, her charismatic and beautiful childhood friend, walks into her life again, she is left with a difficult decision.
