You don’t have to be a part of the LGBTQ+ community to enjoy a book with a queer storyline. Nowadays, there are more stories than ever featuring gay, lesbian, bisexual or trans characters, so whether you’re looking for a book that reflects your own experience or something completely different, we’ve got some of the best LGBTQ+ books ever written for you to dive into.
From classic coming-of-age stories to steamy romances and works of nonfiction, these books are absolutely amazing. Pride Month may only last for 30 days in June, but celebrating the community and the beauty of its diversity can happen all year round. One simple way to do that is by enjoying a great book.
Reading queer stories is a learning opportunity for everyone on the gender spectrum, including those who are gender-non-conforming.
Here are five of the best LGBTQ+ books of all time, written by Black authors, that you absolutely need to add to your reading list right away.
Giovanni’s Room by James Baldwin (1956)
Arguably the most famous and long-lasting portrayal of Black queer masculinity in Western literature, this novel focuses on David’s life, a young American living in 1950s Paris with his girlfriend. However, he gets involved in a relationship with Giovanni, an Italian man he meets at a bar. Despite being engaged to be married, David finds himself inexplicably drawn to Giovanni, but the affair leads to a tragic outcome.
James Baldwin takes us on a journey of love, death and passion, and explores the complexities of the human heart in deeply moving ways. If you’re into stories that delve into the depths of emotion and challenge conventional morality, Giovanni’s Room is for you.
The Color Purple by Alice Walker (1982)
A timeless masterpiece, Alice Walker’s The Color Purple is a gripping tale that unfolds through a series of raw and unfiltered letters. Trapped in poverty, Celie has suffered both physical and sexual abuse at the hands of her father and later, her husband. Adding to her struggles, she embarks on a profound journey of self-discovery, particularly in relation to her sexuality.
Here Comes the Sun by Nicole Dennis-Benn (2016)
In a captivating setting at an opulent resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica, we meet Margot, a woman who tirelessly works to support her younger sister, Thandi, in her pursuit of education. Margot’s upbringing ingrained in her the belief that she had to rely on her sexuality to survive, but she is adamant in shielding Thandi from a similar fate.
As destiny would have it, a new hotel project looms over their village, presenting a potential threat. Margot perceives this as an opportunity not only to achieve financial independence but also to unveil a long-held secret: her forbidden love for another woman.
Margot’s narrative is one of unwavering determination, boundless love and an unyielding desire to forge a brighter future. This powerful tale will captivate you from start to finish, leaving you anxiously anticipating how it ends.
Greenland by David Santos Donaldson (1959)
This brilliant novel-within-a-novel starts in 1919 when Mohammed el Adl, a young Egyptian lover of British author E. M. Forster, finds himself in a jail cell. Fast-forward to the present day and Kip Starling has locked himself in his Brooklyn basement study armed with a pistol and 21 gallons of Poland Spring water. His mission? To write Mohammed’s story within the three-week deadline set by his publisher.
Kip and Mohammed share more than just their writing aspirations. They both identify as Black and queer, navigating a world that often treats them as “Others.” Their lives have been shaped by their encounters with Whiteness, homophobia and the challenges of having an elite education.
Redefining Realness by Janet Mock (2014)
Queer and trans memoirs have gained significant popularity in recent times, but in 2014, Janet Mock’s Redefining Realness, truly stood out among the rest. What made it unique was its focus on the personal journey of a Black trans woman in search of her true self, and the tremendous support she received from her community.
Mock’s story offers a powerful and authentic perspective on the experiences faced by Black trans women, and sheds light on the importance of community support in their lives. If you are looking for a thought-provoking and inspiring memoir, Redefining Realness is a must-read. It not only educates and raises awareness about the challenges faced by marginalized groups but also celebrates the resilience and strength of individuals striving to live their truth.
