June is LGBTQ+ Pride Month, so it’s a great time of year to pick up a book by an LGBTQ+ author. But what kind of book are you in the mood for? I have a handful of diverse selections today, so hopefully there’s something that suits you. If not, feel free to let me know and I’m happy to suggest a book for whatever kind of mood you’re in!
In the mood for… something creepy
Sorrowland by Rivers Solomon (e-book, audiobook). Having escaped from the strict religious community of The Blessed Acres of Cain, Vern gives birth to twins in the woods and will do anything to help her tiny family survive. When her body starts to betray her, she must find help to keep her kids alive. If you’re looking for a really creative scary book (and especially if you couldn’t stop watching The Last of Us), pick up this book next.
In the mood for… queer joy!
Juliet Takes a Breath by Gabby Rivera (e-book). It’s a big summer for Juliet, who comes out as a lesbian to her family, and then heads across the country to start an internship with her feminist icon. She’s still figuring out so much about herself and about queer culture and how to rely on chosen family when things really get rocky. Although Juliet goes through some hard things, she comes out on top and this book is a love letter to the queer community, perfect for anyone in the process of coming out (at any age) or remembering what that felt like.
In the mood for… something funny
Your Driver is Waiting by Priya Guns (e-book, audiobook). Damani is exhausted, living paycheck to paycheck while the company she drives for keeps cutting her share of the fees, but when she picks up a stunning white girl Jolene (5 stars), she feels like her luck is starting to change. But is Jolene’s privileged allyship only skin deep? This book is a riot and if you’re in the mood for dark comedy that will keep you turning the pages, this is it.
In the mood for… a classic
Giovanni’s Room by James Baldwin (e-book, audiobook). Written in the 1950s, this beautifully written novel examines a love affair between a charismatic Parisian and an expat American caught between his new love and his fiancée. This is a lovely, sad book that’s perfect for reading when you’re looking for something reflective.
In the mood for… learning about tough history
The Prettiest Star by Carter Sickels (e-book, audiobook). When Brian left his small Appalachian town for New York City, he had no idea he’d be back in 6 years, having lost countless friends to AIDS and now dying himself. His arrival rocks his hometown and changes his family forever. Set in the throes of the AIDS crisis, this bleak novel is a look at history that shouldn’t be forgotten.
In the mood for… something warm & fuzzy
Legends and Lattes by Travis Baldree (e-book, audiobook). Orc barbarian Viv is ready to hang up her axe and open up Thune’s first coffee shop… but first she’ll have to introduce everyone to what coffee actually is. This is a heartwarming novel that’s perfect for fantasy fans. Read it on off weeks from your D&D campaign.
