As we all learn how to live in a post-pandemic world after having vaccines, Pride Month is going in full force after having to be on a smaller scale due to shutdowns last summer. Whether you find yourself at parades and festivals or being more comfortable staying home, we’ve got a list of books to help you celebrate the month.
The Guncle by Steven Rowley
Patrick, or Gay Uncle Patrick (GUP for short), is a once-famous sitcom actor whose life is changed drastically when he becomes the primary caregiver for his niece Maisie and nephew Grant. The story is full of heartfelt moments as well as witty jokes that will have you laughing until you’re crying as the trio navigates their new dynamic as a family. Lionsgate recently bought the film rights for this book as well.
The Stonewall Reader by New York Public Library
In honor of the fiftieth anniversary of the Stonewall rising, the New York Public Library looked into their archives to collect the first accounts, diaries, periodic literature and articles from LGBTQ magazines documented both the years leading up to the Stonewall riots as well as the years following them. It also spotlights icons who were pivotal for the movement, such as Sylvia Rivera and Ernestine Eckstein.
Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
A favorite of the online book community, this book has an enemies-to-lovers plotline as well as a secret relationship that many tend to enjoy in a romance. Alex Claremont-Diaz, the first son of President Claremont, is seen getting into a public altercation with his longtime nemesis Prince Henry. After the press catches wind of it, they have to stage a fake friendship to keep American/British relations at peace. It’s a light and fun read for everyone.
Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Don’t let the title of this book fool you. Evelyn Hugo is a former Hollywood icon ready to tell her story years after leaving show business. While she talks about her life and the husbands along the way, it’s the forbidden romance that makes this one so captivating.
All Boys Aren’t Blue by George M. Johnson
LGBTQ activist and journalist George M. Johnson explore his childhood, adolescence and college years in a series of personal essays. Sharing memories from his life helps the reader connect to him on a deeper level. His memoir is a powerful recollection about being black and queer and the intersection of those identities.
One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston
This recent release follows cynical 23-year-old August, who doesn’t believe in love and moves to New York City to prove that magic and love don’t exist. But then, she runs into the charming and mysterious Jane. Suddenly all August can think of is Jane and the crush becomes the best part of her day. The problem is Jane is displaced from the 1970s, and August has to decide to either help her or try to make her stay. This story is magical and big-hearted where the impossible is possible.
Honey Girl by Morgan Rogers
One of my favorites this year, “Honey Girl” follows the story of Grace Porter, who has been organized and had a plan for most of her life after being raised by her stern, ex-military father. She’s not one to do spur-of-the-moment things until one night when she drunkenly marries a stranger, Yuki, in Vegas. Now she’s having to navigate what she wants out of her life since she’s not feeling fulfilled from completing her Ph.D. and feels the staggering pressure of her father’s expectations. She decides to flee Portland for the summer to live in New York with a wife she barely knows.
The Ex-Girlfriend of My Ex-Girlfriend is My Girlfriend: Advice on Queer Dating, Love, and Friendship by Maddy Court
Advice columnist Maddy Court answers anonymous queries from lesbian, bisexual and queer women about queer dating dilemmas. Prepare to laugh, cry and reminisce as you read through the responses about first loves, heartbreak, coming out and queer friendship.
Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender
Felix Love secretly fears that he’s one marginalization of too many being black, queer and transgender. During all of this, an anonymous student sent him transphobic messages and posted his deadname along with images of him before he transitioned. He finds himself in a catfish scenario that leads to complicated feelings. Along the way, he begins a journey of questioning and self-discovery that redefines his most important relationship: how he feels about himself.
Hola Papi: How to Come Out in a Walmart Parking Lot and Other Life Lessons by John Paul Brammer
Popular LGBTQ advice columnist and writer John Paul Brammer brings a heartwarming and hilarious memoir in the form of essays as he chronicles his journey as growing up as a queer and mixed-race child in Oklahoma. Releasing in June, this memoir is labeled as one of the most anticipated reads of the summer.
