LGBTQ+ History Month is not only a month of celebration of the work done by the LGBTQ+ community, but also an opportunity to delve into powerful narratives that capture the essence of a variety of experiences. To deepen your understanding and amplify diverse voices, we’ve compiled a list of 15 must-read books for LGBTQ+ History Month. 

Less by Andrew Sean Greer

This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel takes you on a journey with Arthur Less, a struggling writer navigating love and identity across various international destinations. It's a witty, heartfelt exploration of self-discovery.

 

Stone Butch Blues by Leslie Feinberg

A classic in LGBTQ+ literature, Feinberg's semi-autobiographical novel chronicles the life of Jess Goldberg, a young butch lesbian coming to terms with her identity in the midst of societal and personal challenges. 

Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin 

Baldwin's masterpiece explores themes of love, identity, and societal expectations. Set in Paris, this novel offers a poignant reflection on the complexities of sexuality and the pursuit of authenticity.

 

Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston

A delightful romantic comedy that reimagines the love story between the First Son of the United States and the Prince of Wales. McQuiston's novel is a heartwarming and modern take on love in the political spotlight. 

 

Trans Bodies, Trans Selves edited by Laura Erickson-Schroth

A comprehensive resource that covers various aspects of transgender life, this book provides personal narratives, medical information, and resources. It's an essential guide for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of transgender experiences. 

 

Redefining Realness by Janet Mock

In this empowering memoir, Janet Mock shares her journey as a transgender woman of colour, navigating identity, love, and activism. Her story serves as a powerful testament to resilience and authenticity. 

 

Fun Home by Alison Bechdel 

A graphic memoir that explores Bechdel's relationship with her father and her coming to terms with her own sexuality. The combination of words and illustrations creates a compelling narrative that invites readers into the author's deeply personal journey. 

 

The Color Purple by Alice Walker 

Walker's classic is a testament to the strength and resilience of Celie, an African American lesbian navigating love and self-discovery in the early 20th century. 

 

Becoming a Visible Man by Jamison Green 

A compelling memoir by trans activist Jamison Green, providing insights into his experiences as a trans man and shedding light on the broader transgender narrative.

 

Orlando by Virginia Woolf 

Woolf's novel follows the adventurous life of Orlando, a character who experiences both genders and various centuries, providing a whimsical exploration of identity and fluidity. 

 

They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera 

Silvera's novel features non-binary characters navigating a world where individuals receive a call alerting them to their imminent death, prompting reflection on life, love, and identity. 

 

Symptoms of Being Human by Jeff Garvin 

This novel explores the journey of a genderqueer teenager navigating identity, self-expression, and acceptance. 

 

Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides  

Eugenides' novel follows a multigenerational story and life of Cal, an intersex individual, exploring themes of identity, family, and the search for self-acceptance. 

 

Queer Crip: Disabled Gay Men and Their Stories by Bob Guter 

Guter's book provides a collection of personal narratives, shedding light on the experiences of disabled gay men and the intersection of disability and queerness. 

 

Real Life by Brandon Taylor 

Taylor's novel follows a Black, queer graduate student navigating relationships, identity, and academia, offering a nuanced exploration of intersectionality. 

 

Whether you're looking for love stories, memoirs, or thought-provoking fiction, these reads promise to enrich your perspective and foster a deeper connection to the stories that shape the LGBTQ+ community. If you are looking for a place to pick up one of these fantastic reads, take a look at our guide on LGBTQ+ book shops here. Happy reading! 

Find out more about LGBTQ+ History Month and what’s on here.