To continue my LGBTQ-Friendly books saga for Pride month, I have compiled a list of books for high school aged individuals or children ages 14 and up. LGBTQ representation in high school literature is essential for creating an inclusive and accepting environment for all students. As I stated in my previous post, if you live in a state that is trying to restrict inclusive content in the classroom, these would be a great addition to your home library. Happy reading!
Here are five LGBTQ-friendly high school books that are perfect for both LGBTQ students and allies alike.
5 LGBTQ-Friendly Books for High School Students
1. "Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda" by Becky Albertalli
"Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda" follows the story of Simon, a closeted gay high school student who begins exchanging emails with another student who is also gay but remains anonymous. This is a very heartwarming and cute read; it will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside. However, the perspective of being a gay teen trying to figure out the world around you is a painfully relatable one and can help people who are going through a similar process feel like they are not entirely alone. So if you enjoy playful banter and fluffy cuteness with a relevant queer teen point of view, this is the book for you. This book explores themes of coming out, first love, and navigating relationships as a teenager.
Simon vs. The Homosapien Agenda is available at:
2. "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz
"Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" is a coming-of-age story that follows two Mexican-American boys who form an unlikely friendship that evolves into something more. Another book that has very relatable characters and brings you right back to the confusing world of adolescence (if you are an adult reading it like I was), or is a reflection of your high schoolers current life. All of the characters are extremely well developed to the point you feel like they are all fleshed out in front of you. You can feel Ari's anger and awkwardness as if it were your own. I highly recommend this book to all people LGBTQ and allies alike. This book explores themes of identity, family, and the complexities of growing up.
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is available at:
3. "We Are Okay" by Nina LaCour
"We Are Okay" follows the story of Marin, a college student who is grappling with the aftermath of a family tragedy and a complicated relationship with her best friend. This book is less plot driven and more about relationships and emotions. It will resonate deeply with those who have experienced isolation and loneliness whether that be due to coming of age or coming out. Be ready to feel the heart wrenching ache along side Marin as she struggles with her loss. Be ready with some tissues and the idea of blinking at the walls as you contemplate life long after you have closed this book. This book explores themes of grief, friendship, and the importance of vulnerability.
We Are Okay is available at:
4. "I'll Give You the Sun" by Jandy Nelson
As you may have noticed I included this book in my post "5 LGBTQ-Friendly Books for Middle School," but I stated that this would be appropriate for kids 14 and up which also falls into this category. And I love this book so much, I couldn't help but rave about it some more. If you didn't read my previous post, here is a brief synopsis of "I'll Give You the Sun." This is a beautifully written novel that follows the story of twins Jude and Noah, who are both struggling with their own personal demons. Part of the book is told from 13 year old Noah's point of view and other parts of the book are told by 16 year old Jude's point of view. This book will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions as the two struggle with identity, love, and the power of art to heal.
I'll Give You the Sun is available at:
5. "The Miseducation of Cameron Post" by Emily M. Danforth
"The Miseducation of Cameron Post" follows the story of Cameron, a high school student who is sent to a Christian conversion camp after her conservative aunt discovers that she is a lesbian. This is a book I wish I had discovered back when I was a teenager. I love the representation and the struggle of being part of a conservative religious family while trying to come to terms with being LGBTQ. Cameron is, in essence, just a normal run of the mill teenager, who loves movies, gives her family a hard time, and is experiencing her first love; only to become rejected and abandoned by her family by being sent away to be "fixed" for merely being who she is. It is a powerful read, and one I highly recommend to all who need a little more perspective in their life. This book will help one see life from an LGBTQ point of view and hopefully encourage empathy. This book explores themes of identity, religion, and the damaging effects of conversion therapy.
The Miseducation of Cameron Post is available at:
Conclusion
In conclusion, these five LGBTQ-friendly high school books are essential for creating an inclusive and accepting environment for all teenagers. They would be a wonderful addition to any person's home library no matter there race, sexuality, religion, or gender identity. They explore themes of identity, love, friendship, and the complexities of growing up. Reading these books can help teenagers feel seen, heard, and understood, which is essential for creating a safe and supportive environment for all.
Thanks for reading!
Have other book recommendations?
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Note: Next week I will be taking a brief hiatus as my family is going on vacation. I will return posting Monday, July 3.
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