Immerse Yourself in 12 Enlightening LGBTQ+ Non-Fiction Reads
Book RaiderIn a world where it seems everyone is writing a memoir, the genre is thriving beautifully within the LGBTQ+ community. With these enlightening reads, we have the chance to catch an intimate glimpse into a spectrum of experiences and identities. So, let's peel back the heavy drapes of traditional narratives and blow away a bit of the heteronormativity dust in the process.
Turn off your streaming binge for a bit, put on your favorite cozy socks, and get comfy in your favourite reading nook. Because we are going on a journey into worlds woven with tangles of identity, love, struggle and resilience. Enlightening doesn't even begin to cover these LGBTQ+ non-fiction reads. They're more like rainbows at the end of a storm - unexpected, beautiful, and brightening up the whole darn sky.
The Deviant's War: The Homosexual vs. the United States of America
by Eric Cervini
Why The Deviant's War: The Homosexual vs. the United States of America is on this list: If you're interested in diving deep into the civil rights era of the LGBTQ+ community, then here's your literary snorkeling gear.
This hefty read isn't just about the LGBTQ+ rights movement, it's a dive into the life of Frank Kameny, a Harvard-educated astronomer and World War II veteran who loses his federal job for being gay. Fueled by his deep-seated resilience and unwavering belief in justice, Kameny takes on the U.S. government and in doing so, creates a roadmap for the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. This is history unfiltered and uncensored.
What readers like: Readers love this book for its in-depth research and the way it humanizes a part of history that's often glossed over. The storytelling is top-notch, making you feel as though you're right there with Frank, marching on Washington. And let's be honest, who doesn't love a David vs. Goliath story?
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Tomorrow Will Be Different: Love, Loss, and the Fight for Trans Equality
by Sarah McBride
Why Tomorrow Will Be Different: Love, Loss, and the Fight for Trans Equality is on this list: Who better to powerfully illuminate LGBTQ+ stories and struggles than one of America’s most recognized transgender activists? That's right, nobody.
This book isn't just a memoir - it doubles as a crash course in transgender rights. Sarah McBride elegantly flips through her own journey as a transgender woman interwoven with the fight for trans equality in America. Expect to be hit in the feels with tales of love, loss and yes, the pursuit of normalcy.
What readers like: Readers rave about Sarah's down-to-earth writing style that packs one hell of a punch. Her storytelling brings out the human side of what is often mistaken as a 'complex issue'. It’s especially beloved for its raw honesty and ability to throw readers into a world beyond their own experiences, all while inspiring a call to arms for equality.
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All Boys Aren't Blue: A Memoir-Manifesto
by George M. Johnson
Why All Boys Aren't Blue: A Memoir-Manifesto is on this list: Ever wondered what the inside of a rainbow looks like? Well, Johnson’s 'All Boys Aren’t Blue' isn’t a fairytale set over the pots of gold at the end of rainbows. It's even better. It's a riveting LGBTQ+ non-fiction perfect for your experience-hungry soul.
This memoir-manifesto bridges the junction where the personal meets political. Johnson shares experiences from his colorful life as a black queer man - from tackling masculinity and familial relationships, to exploring friendship, love, gender identity and more. It's like stepping into a different pair of shoes and seeing the world through a very different, but equally fabulous, lens.
What readers like: Readers love this pick because of its raw, brutally honest, and uplifting narrative. It lays the groundwork for some deep thinking about life, identity, and the road towards self-acceptance. Plus, Johnson’s prose is relatable and real, not a dolled up, sugar-coated fairy story.
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Good Boy: My Life in Seven Dogs
by Jennifer Finney Boylan
Why Good Boy: My Life in Seven Dogs is on this list: The book provides an enlightening perspective on the LGBTQ+ experience, seen through the lens of the author's relationship with her seven dogs. Each dog signifies a different period in her life, including her transition from male to female, making it an important read for those interested in LGBTQ+ non-fiction.
Good Boy: My Life in Seven Dogs is a heartwarming memoir by Jennifer Finney Boylan that ties together two universal themes: love for our pets and the journey of self-discovery. The author cleverly uses her life with seven dogs as an allegory of major life stages, especially her transition. It's humorous, touching, and charming, all while conversing about such serious matters.
What readers like: Readers appreciate Boylan's skill in weaving the ordinary and extraordinary stories of her life together with humor and tenderness. She unflinchingly portrays her journey as a transgender woman, which is as revealing as it is encouraging. The dogs add a fun twist on what could be a heavy subject, making it both heartening and engaging. It's a great pick for both dog lovers and those seeking to understand the nuanced journey of an individual in the LGBTQ+ community.
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Loveless
by Alice Oseman
Why Loveless is on this list: If you are on a journey of exploring the deep and diverse spectrum of gender and sexuality, 'Loveless' is bound to be a lighthouse guiding you through. It's a book deeply rooted in the LGBTQ+ community, showcasing the struggles and joys of identifying as asexual.
'Loveless' takes us through deep but relatable phases of self-discovery. It follows the protagonist, Georgia, through her first year at University. After years of romantic disappointments, Georgia begins to question her sexuality, leading her to the realization that she might be asexual. This beautifully written novel doesn't just centre around Georgia's self-discovery, but also delves into topics like friendship, love in its various forms, and the pressure society puts on young people to fit into certain molds.
What readers like: Readers were drawn to the rawness of this novel, crediting it for its frank and easy-to-understand exploration of identity and sexuality. They loved the fact that while 'Loveless' sent an important message about personal understanding and acceptance, it never compromised on storytelling, engaging them right till the end. Its relatable characters and splendid portrayal of friendships are quite the winning charm too.
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The Infinity Courts
by Akemi Dawn Bowman
Why The Infinity Courts is on this list: While 'The Infinity Courts' may not strictly be non-fiction, its insightful and uniquely creative exploration of identity, morality, and love, through the lens of a complex, LGBTQ+ protagonist, surely places it in our list, nudging us to adjust our non-fiction qualification because of its profound thematic relevance
Imagine your worst nightmare, you're dead. And, to top it all off, the afterlife is run by a malicious Artificial Intelligence who means nothing but tyranny. This is exactly what happens to our heroine, Nami Miyamoto, when she's transported to a place called Infinity, where humans become the servant to their past AI servants. But her biggest question is, who is the real enemy? As Nami navigates the complexities of Infinity, she also grapples with her own identity, and therein lies the importance of her LGBTQ+ perspective and contribution.
What readers like: Readers admire Bowman’s skill in portraying authentic relationships, emotional depth, and creating a fresh take on an afterlife scenario. The book is especially praised for Nami’s character development, a brave, resilient, and complex LGBTQ+ heroine whose journey may resonate deeply with many readers. It would be a shame to miss out on this one. Just saying.
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Scarborough
by Catherine Hernandez
Why Scarborough is on this list: Scarborough is a heartwarming book that draws you into the lives of people living in a queer and ethnic urban community. Its focus on the LGBTQ+ community and the issues they face make it a perfect addition to our list of enlightening LGBTQ+ non-fiction reads.
Scarborough is a wonderfully woven tapestry of the diverse population that resides in a disadvantaged Toronto suburban area. It gracefully navigates through stories of resilience, rebellion, identity, and inclusivity. This book humanizes the struggles of communities that are typically seen through a lens of prejudice and discrimination. It explores the nuances of living as a queer person of colour while juggling cultural expectations and societal pressures.
What readers like: Scarborough has been praised for its beautifully crafted and authentic characters. Readers appreciate the rawness, empathy, and deep understanding of human emotion that Hernandez injects into her writing. They love the gripping narratives that are nuanced, relevant, and extremely moving, making them feel deeply invested in the characters' journeys.
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The Gender Games: The Problem With Men and Women, from Someone Who Has Been Both
by Juno Dawson
Why The Gender Games: The Problem With Men and Women, from Someone Who Has Been Both is on this list: Juno Dawson is an openly trans author who dives right into her personal experience with navigating the world as both genders, offering enlightening insights into the LGBTQ+ community.
In 'The Gender Games', Dawson infuses humor and candid narrative into a sensitive subject, making it not just an educational read, but an entertaining one as well. The book explores the complexities of gender identity and the pressures of societal gender norms. It's like having a chat with a wise friend who happens to be an expert in gender and sexuality.
What readers like: Readers love Dawson's honest, no-nonsense approach and her ability to simplify complex ideas. They appreciate the humor she brings to the journey, making the book feel more like a conversation with a good friend rather than stuffy academic reading. Plus, it's not everyday you get such personal insights from someone who has lived experience in both male and female worlds.
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Real Queer America: LGBT Stories from Red States
by Samantha Allen
Why Real Queer America: LGBT Stories from Red States is on this list: Exploring the heart of queer resistance in less traditionally accepting parts of America, this book is a testament to the power and resilience of LGBTQ+ communities. It's a beacon of enlightenment for anyone seeking to understand the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals in red states.
Samantha Allen presents a heartwarming journey through the unexpected havens of queer community in America's heartland. Buckle up as you join Allen's road trip through conservative corners of the country, where she uncovers the brilliant queer resistance happening right under the noses of the closed-minded. Along the way, you'll hear incredible LGBT stories, meet countless inspiring people, and perhaps even learn to see the red states through a new, queer lens.
What readers like: Readers especially appreciate Allen's engaging and depthful writing style, her powerful conveyance of LGBTQ+ narratives in these often overlooked regions, and the surprising optimism that permeates the book. Real Queer America effectively offers a vision of hope amidst a climate that often feels bleak, making it an enlightening stride in LGBTQ+ literature.
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Sissy: A Coming-of-Gender Story
by Jacob Tobia
Why Sissy: A Coming-of-Gender Story is on this list: Buckle up folks, 'cause Jacob Tobia is about to take you on a wild, hilarious, and sometimes heart-wrenching ride of self-discovery and self-acceptance in this enlightening LGBTQ+ non-fiction read.
Swerving away from the stereotypical transgender narrative, this book documents Tobia's journey as a gender non-conforming individual in modern America. From a playful yet powerful narrative about their childhood in North Carolina to their fearless exploration of their identity amid the fast-paced streets of New York, this book is a triumphant slap on society's tiresome gender norms. With the continuous journey to reclaim the term 'sissy', Tobia provides a fresh, invigorating take on what it truly means to defy gender limitations.
What readers like: Readers appreciate Tobia's transparency, humor and indomitable spirit. Their candor in discussing the personal and societal struggles of identifying as non-binary is both enlightening and inspiring, and their narrative voice resonates with undeniable charm. This book has served as a liberating revelation for many, reassuring them that their own unique identities and experiences have a rightful place in the world.
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Red, White & Royal Blue
by Casey McQuiston
Why Red, White & Royal Blue is on this list: This book is a fresh and funny glimpse into the world of LGBTQ+ politics and royal family dynamics. It's thought-provoking, full of compelling characters, and touches on the realities of being a young gay man in the public eye. It perfectly fits our list of enlightening LGBTQ+ non-fiction reads.
Red, White & Royal Blue is an entertaining blend of romance, politics, and power. The story revolves around Alex Claremont-Diaz, the millennial son of the American President and Henry, Prince of Wales. When photos of their rivalry threaten British/American relations, the PR teams stage a truce. And things get a little interesting from there. In a world watching their every move, Alex and Henry grapple with their feelings for each other, often with hilarious results.
What readers like: Readers love the wit, the humor, and the heart. They like how McQuiston's writing style is relatable, fun, and perfectly balances the serious moments with light-hearted one-liners. They also appreciate the inclusive representation and the candid exploration of identity, sexuality, and political dynamics in the current era.
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Young, Female and Black
by Heidi Mirza
Why Young, Female and Black is on this list: If you're looking to expand your understanding of intersectionality, particularly as it relates to the lived experiences of queer people of color, Heidi Mirza's 'Young, Female and Black' is an essential read.
As a gripping exploration of race and gender within the UK, this book dives headfirst into the unique challenges faced by young, black British women in the latter half of the 20th century. It breaks down the complexities of interwoven identities, tackles stereotypes bravely, and is even sprinkled with a personal touch as the author weaves in pieces of her own experience growing up as a young, black woman in a predominantly white society. While it doesn't exclusively center on queer experiences, its examination of intersecting identities holds indispensable lessons for anyone trying to understand the LGBTQ+ community more holistically.
What readers like: Readers have praised 'Young, Female and Black' for its honest and robust examination of intersectional identities, its thoughtful balance of personal anecdotes and academic insight, and its knack for highlighting the power of resilience despite societal challenges. It's a book that’ll keep you glued, turning page after page, as you seek to understand the world from a whole new perspective. Plus, Heidi Mirza's empathetic writing style is like a warm yet enlightening chat with a wise, cool friend.
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