June is Pride Month and – especially for us bookworms – this is the perfect time to add more titles to your toppling to-be-read pile. Whether you’re already an avid reader of LGBTQ+ authors or you want to discover new perspectives, we’ve curated a list that includes everything from a beautiful coffee table tome celebrating activism to a new romance release that promises lots of twists and turns. Read on to discover 5 brilliant beach reads for Pride Month below.
1. We Are Everywhere by Leighton Brown and Matthew L. Riemer
This photographic history of the queer liberation movement in the USA is as beautiful as it is impactful. Created by the people behind the popular @lgbt_history Instagram account, We Are Everywhere is a visual tour of LGBTQ+ activism from the late 19th century onwards. It was released in 2019 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall riots and is still very relevant.
2. Skye Falling by Mia McKenzie
They say not to judge a book by its cover but it’s hard not to fall in coverly love with Skye Falling. This new release combines family drama with romance, and we can’t wait to get our hands on it! Mia McKenzie has won awards for her previous books, too.
3. Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo
San Francisco? Chinatown? The 1950s? What a setting! Malinda Lo’s latest book lays a coming-of-age lesbian romance against the uncertainty and paranoia of the Red Scare in America. It’s got all the makings of an unforgettable read, and comes complete with another stunning cover to add to the wish list!
4. Take Me With You by Andrea Gibson
Even if you’re not usually a poetry reader, it’s worth giving Andrea Gibson’s words a go. This non-binary activist uses art and poetry to communicate pain and love in a strikingly beautiful way. Check out their spoken word poetry on YouTube too.
5. What’s the T? by Juno Dawson
Juno Dawson’s chatty, loveable writing style is the perfect approach for this handbook, which is aimed at young trans and non-binary people – and their loved ones. More of a sci-fi fan? She’s also penned some exciting speculative fiction and Doctor Who tie-in novels!
Fancy celebrating Pride on the beach? Check out our guide to Maspalomas Winter Pride!
