Join in honouring the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia on May 17. Explore narratives that foster inclusivity, respect and understanding, inviting readers to celebrate the diverse experiences within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
It Feels Good to Be Yourself by Theresa Thorn
A picture book that introduces the concept of gender identity. Writer Theresa Thorn and illustrator Noah Grigni craft a sweet and straightforward exploration of gender with child-friendly language and vibrant art. This book is a great starting point for young readers and adults to learn about and discuss this important topic. Ages 4-8.
Spin with Me by Ami Polonsky
Seventh-graders Essie, in North Carolina for just one semester, and Ollie, a non-binary classmate, develop a gentle romance while Essie works to find her sense of belonging at the new school. This book is a thoughtful, sensitive middle-grade novel about non-binary identity and first love. Readers of Polonsky’s previous work, like Gracefully Grayson, will love this. Ages 8-12.
Bitter by Akwaeke Emezi
Bitter is excited to attend Eucalyptus, a special school where she can focus on her art. When the other teens get involved with the injustices happening in the city, Bitter wants to help the revolution while staying true to herself. This prequel to Pet highlights themes of protest, art activism and resistance while mixing in the complexities of everyday life. Ages 12+.
The Magic Fish by Le Nguyen Trung
Trying to communicate with your parents as a kid is hard, but Tiâãen doesn't even have the right words because his parents are struggling with their English. Is there a Vietnamese word for what he's going through? Is there a way to tell them he's gay? This story highlights the complexity of family and how stories can bring us together. The Girl from the Sea fans will enjoy this YA graphic novel. Ages 12+.
None of the Above by Travis Alabanza
Alabanza, an award-winning trans writer and performer, writes a gripping memoir exploring what it means to live outside society's normative boundaries. The memoir considers the meaning of gender and its role in a world that rigidly and aggressively enforces the binary. It is recommended for readers who enjoyed Bellies.
He/She/They by Schuyler Bailar
He/She/They uses storytelling and the art of conversation to give readers the fundamental language and context of gender so that we can pave the way to understanding, acceptance and inclusion.
The Famous Lady Lovers by Cookie Woolner
Learn more about Black queer women and their impacts on American culture before the era of gay liberation. Cookie Woolner uncovers the intimate lives of performers, writers and educators by examining blues songs, Black newspapers, vice reports, memoirs, sexology case studies and more.
Care of by Ivan Coyote
Writer and performer Ivan Coyote has kept a file of the most special communications received from readers and audience members over the years. Care Of combines the most powerful of these letters with Ivan's responses, creating a correspondence of startling intimacy, breathtaking beauty, heartbreaking honesty and openness.
