In June, we recommend our favourite LGBTQ+ reads.
Ho’onani Hula Warrior by Heather Gale
This incredible book tells the story of Ho’onani, who identifies only as Ho’onani, and not wahine (girl) or kane (boy). She follows her dreams to be part of an all male traditional hula chant. Accepted by her parents, but misunderstood by her sister, Ho’onani stays strong, sure, and steady, even during times where she wonders if she is enough. Ho’onani holds her place “in the middle”, gaining admiration and acceptance as a leader—a hula warrior. - Mary
In Memoriam by Alice Winn
"In Memoriam" absolutely wrecked me, in the best way. It’s a love story set against the horrors of World War I and it’s one of the most powerful books I’ve read in a long time. Ellwood and Gaunt are best friends, secretly in love with each other, but unable to say it for years. Then war comes and everything changes. The way their relationship unfolds, through letters, flashbacks, and the brutalness of the trenches, is heartbreaking and beautiful all at the same time. This historical novel is raw, tender, and honest about what war does to the body, mind, and soul. But at its core, it’s about how love can survive in the middle of chaos. If you’re looking for something historical, poetic, emotional, and unforgettable this Pride Month, this is the book for you. - Emma
Red, White, and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
“Red, White & Royal Blue” is a romantic comedy that reimagines political and royal life through a queer lens. When Alex Claremont-Diaz, the First Son of the United States, is forced into a fake friendship with Prince Henry of Wales, their staged camaraderie unexpectedly blossoms into a heartfelt romance. McQuiston explores themes of identity, love, and the courage to live authentically, all set against a backdrop of international politics and media scrutiny. The novel's witty dialogue and rich characters create a narrative that is both humorous and deeply moving. A great book if you’re looking for something lighthearted and hilarious that might make you cry a little too. - Natashia
This is How You Lose the Time War by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone
In this "sapphic time travel fantasy love story," two agents from warring futures work their way through the past, begin to exchange letters, and soon fall in love. Told in letters written alternately by Blue (El-Mohtar) and Red (Gladstone), this short book is brilliant science fiction and heart-wrenching romance. - Elisa
Untamed by Glennon Doyle
Glennon Doyle offers a remarkable memoir of her life-changing realization that she had lost her true-self while devoting so much of who she thought she was to her marriage to her husband as well as her kids. "Untamed" shares her experience of re-igniting her fire within, finding love with another woman, showing up as a true powerhouse for her kids and acknowledging hard truths about mental health and addiction. - Samantha
Get more LGBTQ+ recommendations with our book list: Diverse Pages: A Collection of LGBTQ Books for All Ages