Find books via Kindle Unlimited Membership Plans.4. After his theater teacher (who I imagine to be a well-meaning ally) casts him as a nontraditional Romeo, Dean quickly realizes he wants to be seen as a guy offstage as well. Gracefully Grayson is about what it means to express who we are on the inside and outside. Copyright 2022 The Uncorked Librarian LLC, best friendship books for adults and teens, Books That Make You Think For Adults & Teens. Nick is a year older, and while you might suspect that he is your typical jock, Nick is actually also an endearing gentleman who has now befriended Charlie. Doctors saw off Traviss head and freeze it for five years. Henrys grandmother has Alzheimers, his boyfriend committed suicide last year, and his entire family is struggling. Grappling with themes of acceptance and self-discovery, this tragicomic is not just telling a story, it's taking us on an emotional and psychological journey. Without giving away spoilers, Lord Blackheart might actually have a sweet rainbow heart instead. 16-year-old Simon's coming out story is not too far from what a lot of LGBTQ teens experience. Thank you so much for the thoughtful comment. We need more diversity in literature. Someone has posted Felixs dead name along with pictures of him pre-transition. Georgia knows theres more to his story than lies people are telling, but can she uncover the truth? While training in the royal palace, she becomes entangled in forbidden love. Its infuriating and you spend the book rooting for Felix while wanting to punch the people who refuse to accept him. Unapologetic and conversational, All Boys Arent Blue will inspire youth who are living in similar situations, making this an outstanding nonfiction LGBT book for teens. Linus tells Harrison that hes moving out of state. But when the royal family is assassinated and Felix becomes the next in line for the throne, he finds himself (and Joy) in mortal danger. Furthermore, there arent nearly enough books featuring queer characters of color, disabled queer characters, and other combinations of marginalized identities. What begins as a tiff and rivalry for all of the world to see ends in an unexpected way. A Coretta Scott King Honor Book and one of the most beautiful LGBTQ books for teens about being Black and queer, follow two young women from very different backgrounds. Graysons longing is the strongest emotion in the book. From bullying to finding joy, Johnson exemplifies healing, self-reflection, and self-discovery. If you are looking for one of the best graphic novel YA LGBT books,Nimona is where it is at. Meanwhile, Will Grayson 2 (written by David Levithan) is closeted and in an online relationship with another teen named Isaac, but his best friend Maura has feelings for him. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you or your teen are looking for more information and resources, this book is for you. Fall in love with the characters, stunning landscapes, and Keltie with her purple dolphin t-shirt. They face issues of family drama and teenage pressures while exploring their sexuality. But she possesses magical fire powers, which is a huge secret since magic is forbidden in Mynaria. Out to only a very select few, his secret ends up in the wrong hands and he has to face the idea of being outed instead of being allowed to decide who to tell and when. Thanks a lot for sharing it. Very nice post. Hani is well-liked and a bit of a doormat, while Ishu is abrasive and driven. If you are looking for LGBTQ books for teens who love paranormal elements, Carry On promises ghosts, magic, witches, wizards, and vampires. Through her journeys into her mothers past, Edie hopes to find peace and closure. Your next favorite read is probably on this list. Aristotle and Danteis a Printz Honor Book and has won numerous awards such as the Lambda Literary Award andStonewall Book Award. Hey there. A Stonewall Book Award-winning novel, I'll Give You The Sun is a story in two parts: half is told by Noah, and half is by Noah's twin sister, Jude. Unfortunately for these youth, the wilderness is full of horrific creatures. Somehow, Luis time travels back to the 1980s, where he has the opportunity to save the boys life. Meanwhile, Georgia cant stop thinking about the dead boy that she didnt even know. Against all odds, though, Amanda successfully integrates into the high school world. But what happens off the ice her first relationship, her forced coming-out, and her middle school friend drama is even more gripping. If you enjoy ghost story books or listening to stories, Cemetery Boys is also one of the best fantasy audiobooks. Plus, there's a musical production based on Tiny's life involved and who wouldn't want to read that? Thats tough when you are already a wallflower, and as we know, HS has its emotional and seemingly-at-the-time, momentous highs and lows. The pressure is on as Riley's dad is a congressman running for re-election in their conservative town. As the title suggests, this book focuses on the complexities and fluidity of gender. Levithan also speaks to our basic human needs and deeply evaluates love, the soul, and the body. Along with Shara's quarterback BF, Smith, and bad-boy neighbor, Rory, Chloe begins a search for Shara after receiving a cryptic letter from her. A Cinderella retelling, we meet Ash a now almost orphan left to a cruel stepmother. For LGBTQ+ teens who aren't necessarily surrounded by people like them, books can be an especially crucial resource. You want a love triangle? Henry has to decide if the world is worth saving. The story centers two lovable teens, Audre and Mabel, telling the entire story in their two distinct voices. Read The Girl from the Sea: Amazon | Goodreads. Next, we have another title that many fans of YA are familiar with. Similar to Will Grayson, Will Grayson, a lot of meaning comes from the theater. However, Yadriel accidentally summons the wrong ghost, who turns out to be a boy from his school. It was super touching and a bit sad at times, but after all that there is a happy ending. Furthermore, it is interactive, featuring worksheets and reflective exercises to guide you on your journey. They write some of the best LGBT books for teens, tweens, and new adults that even adults can appreciate. The Kindred sees commoner Joy and royal Felix linked through mind-pairings a connection created to save their kingdom from revolution. You might think that every book I read couldnt possibly be as amazing as I say it is, but thats where youre wrong. Thank you so much! What occurs from that moment on changes the course of both of their lives. This is definitely a must-read for adults and teens alike. Aristotle and Dante are polar opposites. Unfortunately, when she misses out on financial aid, Liz might have to gun for prom queen its the only way to get a scholarship. When Morgan almost accidentally drowns, Keltie saves her and lives up to her namesake. It has been 200 years since Cinderella married her prince, and now teen girls are required to attend the Annual Ball where the male kingdom members select their soon-to-be brides. And I just adore Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Senz! Lesbian fangirl probably reading a book in the woods or watching highlights from RuPaul's Drag Race right now. Even more notable is that Travis best friend confesses that he is gay before the procedure. This is one of the great YA LBGT books also made into an endearing movie.Read Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda: Amazon | Goodreads. This book is great for both teen and adult readers. The government is deporting Chinese citizens on a whim and is paranoid about Communist activities. Beautiful Lei a member of the lowest caste known as Paper finds herself under the kings watchful eye. Surprisingly, she soon learns the mystery of her mothers death is tied to an underground society at the very university she attends. We Are Okay will get at the core of your being. The concept of chosen family is very important to queer communities. Read We Are Okay: Amazon | Goodreads. Austin is bisexual and in love with both his male best friend and his girlfriend. Check out even more famous 90s books for adults and teens.Read The Perks Of Being A Wallflower: Amazon | Goodreads. Charlie is famously known in school as the boy who came out as gay last year. I Kissed Shara Wheeler is the latest release by Red, White, and Royal Blue author Casey McQuiston. As Audre heads to Minneapolis, we watch as another teen, Mabel, tries to reconcile her feelings over her ex-boyfriend as well as her encounter with a girl in the woods. Will Grayson 1 (written by John Green) has a "very big and very gay" best friend, Tiny Cooper, and while he's been there for Tiny through every heartbreak he's endured, he's on the fence about their friendship. One of the most talked-about 2020 LGBT books for teens, Thomass debut, Cemetery Boys, is a Latinx and paranormal story filled with spirits and romance. Read more terrific LGBT graphic novels for adults and teens. Addressing depression, love, friendship, and coming out, Will Grayson, Will Grayson humorously but passionately portrays a modern-day, coming-of-age story. The book is just so sincere and sweet. Leah's usually on beat when it comes to drumming, but she's the opposite when it comes to other areas of her life. The Lumberjanesisreminiscent of the Powder Puff girls and is an uplighting, cutesy LGBT book for tweens.Read The Lumberjanes: Amazon | Goodreads. Excuse me while I bask in the varied and nuanced queer YA coming into the world. Lastly, explore LGBT books for tweens about friendship, sexuality, and gender. Honest, heart-wrenching, and based on a true story, Two Boys Kissing follows two boys trying to break the world record for the longest kiss. The first was a library loan for us, and we couldnt wait even a day longer for the second, especially with that cliffhanger. Follow non-binary journalist and LGBTQIA+ rights activist George M. Johnson throughout childhood, adolescence, and college while they are living in New Jersey and Virginia. This is one of the sweetest LGBT books for tweens and about a transgender girl. We couldnt leave off a few more of our favorite Levithan LGBTQ books for teens, and Every Day is certainly one of them. Fans of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe eagerly awaited this sequel to the story of two boys and their journey from best friends to lovers. Growing up in North Carolina, Deonn brings a little bit of that Southern tradition to Legendborn, winner of the Coretta Scott King Award. She finds herself trying on dresses at the thrift shop. The pair are total strangers, but are looking to make a new friend on their "End Day." The inspiration behind the Tony Award-winning musical Fun Home, this graphic memoir revisits Alison Bechdel's adolescence, culminating in her coming out to her parents just before her father's death. Exploring the intricacies of both familial and romantic love, this story promises to tug at the heartstrings. Living in Harlem, Xiomara Batista is attracting unwanted attention as her curves fall in place, pouring her frustrations and anger into her notebook. Portrayed as loners, watch Ari and Dantes friendship grow in a sweet, tentative, and confusing manner. An absolutely beautiful novel set in New York and California, LaCours emotional & poetic writing captivated us. That book is magic. How will this play out?Read Heartstopper: Amazon | Goodreads. With the blog gaining momentum, one reader threatens to out Riley. You see, I dont finish books I dont like. Her closest friend her twin brother is distant and secretive, struggling to come to terms with his sexuality. Can Morgan find a way to truly be with Keltie and her friends while saving the seals? As an elder queer, I am constantly astonished by the brilliant options available. Darkness and loss tied in with feminine strength make for a powerful and almost magical storyline. Content warning for biphobia. Find sex, cursing, and underage drinking as just a few examples. An accidental email paired with blackmail threatens to send Simons world into a tizzy. Follow along with the histories of three women: Katie, her mom Caroline, and her grandmother Mary. Most importantly, it focuses on the message that God made and loves queer kids exactly as they are. Join our Uncorked Reading Challenge. This story meets up with Ari and Dante in their senior year of high school as they navigate loss, love, and finding their own way in the world. However, Angie is relatable, and her joy (and unhappiness) is sourced from many aspects of her life. One of the newer and stunning LGBT books for teens released in 2020, watch as a plot of revenge leads to self-discovery and the shot at love that Felix deserves.Read Felix Ever After: Amazon | Goodreads. A sweet YA LGBT graphic novel also made into a Netflix series, become utterly engrossed in a story of friendship and new love. A Stonewall Book Award winner, among many other recognitions,If I Was Your Girlis a strong and must-read LGBT book for teens.Read If I Was Your Girl: Amazon | Goodreads. Follow along with Simon and his process of not-so-slowly coming out to the world in Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda. Together, these endearing Bengali girls discover and fight for the space to be who they truly are. Thank you so much for sharing your recommendation and review of it with us. We would have loved to be on the Printz committee for this one. Plus, if you like audiobooks, this is a great one to listen to as the readers really capture the voices of our two protagonists. So, you can trust me when I say that this book is absolutely amazing. It would not be exaggerating to say this is one of the most beautifully written stories of love of all kinds, Blackness, and queerness that I have ever read. Will the two rekindle their affection? A few have criticized the title for its lack of plot. Puerto Rican lesbian Juliet has just come out to her mother and it didn't go so well. LGBTQ books for teens have come a long way in recent years. If you love magic and secret societies with some romance and mystery sprinkled throughout, then this is the book for you. Not to mention that its also the winner of the Michael L. Printz Award, the National Book Award for Young Peoples Literature, andthe Pura Belpr Award. Aristotle and Dante are best friends but feelings can be a tricky topic in adolescence. So, keep reading for top LGBTQ books for teens in all genres: science-fiction, graphic novels, fantasy, and so much more. Since the first queer young adult book was published in 1969, the number of YA books featuring queer characters has grown from roughly one a year in the 1970s to 50+ titles a year more recently. Grab the best LGBT books for tweens and teens here: 1. Naturally, the whole thing turns on its head when Kai Sheridan, a shy boy in his theater class, asks him out in the final week of the bet. Consequently, Harrison decides to plan an amazing final day for the two of them, complete with a bucket list of all the things theyve been too afraid to do before. As the age-old quotation goes, "We read to know we are not alone." It covers terminology, healthy relationships, dealing with bigotry, and much more. So, he visits the one place he can find other Gods and demigods for help: Camp Half-Blood. I found a few books that I hadn't heard about before and I'm definitely adding them to my tbr. Aristotle And Dante is, instead, an endearing character development story about life, growing up, and being in love. Its a choose-your-own-adventure style read that allows for individual exploration. The protagonist, Cameron Post, loses her parents in a car crash just as she's beginning to discover her own sexuality, which propels her into an entirely different narrative of queer adolescence. However, Melissa knows that she is a girl on the inside and would like the outside to reflect this as well. I needed to get lost in a world where people were good and in love. Charlie also tends to have cool kids in his corner, and hes great at almost everything. An anonymous commenter discovers Riley's real identity and threatens to expose it. As the world watches, we gain insight into other teens lives with questions about acceptance, love, and sexuality. The main premise is that only when they are together can Jude and Noah be complete. A younger version of Will Grayson, Will Grayson, and similar to Gracefully Grayson, Melissa really wants to play the female role in the upcoming play Charlottes Web. During a rather life-changing moment at a porn store, Will Grayson happens to meet another Will Grayson. Skim doesnt hold back and addresses all of the heavy-hitting issues that face teens growing up, including sexuality and depression. AlthoughDrag Teenis not one of the most well-written LGBT books for teens, the story is unique in that youth can dip their toes into the world of drag. He even saves Charlie from being sexually assaulted. Written by two cartoonists, this illustrated guide explains the basics of gender and sexuality. There are so many youth out there, especially teenagers, who are starting to find themselves. Over the years, A has learned to live with never having the option or strong desire for a tomorrow until A meets meet Rhiannon. For LGBT teen graphic novels, this is a heartfelt must. Travel around the world with a book a month as part of our Uncorked Reading Challenge. Cate, though, is now 21 and engaged to someone else. Dante is fair-skinned, self-assured, and knows how to swim. Youll certainly champion Lilys strength. Teen fiction is 70% of this list so it is the most influential. Langford included everything from puberty for trans youth to dating violence in this must-read resource. Yet, she feels that shes too weird, too Black, and too poor to ever fit in, making college her exit strategy. YA is my favorite genre to read, and Aristotle and Dante grabbed me by the cover as well. As a member of Amazon Prime, dont miss Amazon First Reads early access to Kindle books. Back in my day, we used to have trudge uphill both ways to find queer books. May I also recommend Hurricane Season? When her siblings start to go missing, Derry is determined to save them even as her growing powers threaten to spiral out of control. Told through the lens of 16-year-old Sana, whose family moves to California as her parents go through their own trials, this coming-of-age story is impossible to put down. A falls in love with her, and every day, A essentially kidnaps the body they find themselves in to meet up with her. Seventeen participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. All the books mentioned are the best ones. It's about a girl who lives with her dad and loves Van Gogh. If youve ever had a crush on one of your teachers, Skim is one of the LGBTQ books for teens that you have to read. Book Riot contributor Jaigirdar breathes new life into that favorite romance trope by giving us distinctly different and complex queer protagonists of color. Again, as an elder queer I cannot get over the variety of stories were starting to see. Now, these extraterrestrials are threatening to end the world unless he hits this big red button to stop them but he doesnt want to. Thanks to the tireless work of too many people and organizations to name, the world has become a safer place for young people who identify as queer. This award-winning novel is already quintessential YA reading, and its film adaptation, Love, Simon inspired a spin-off Hulu series, Love, Victor. Set in New England, Nova Huang a queer, deaf witch works at her familys bookstore where she helps investigate supernatural occurrences. What happens when Yadriel starts falling for a ghost he has agreed to help? A has been everywhere and has borrowed just about every body type. Sign up for bookish LGBTQ+ news and recommendations! This graphic novel is all about feminism, especially since the head of the camp is Rosie the Riveter. Read Two Boys Kissing: Amazon | Goodreads. Although some readers have had enough of John Green, we are unapologetically not quite sorry. Each year, eight girls are chosen to serve the king. Read The Symptoms Of Being Human: Amazon | Goodreads.