LGBTQI2S Books This Fall for Younger Readers

by Christine Kinori

As summer comes to an end and leaves begin to fall, it just might be the perfect time to cuddle up on the sofa with a good book and a hot cup of tea. Reading a good book can transport us away from long rainy days or stresses from school and friends. Here are some recently released LGBTQ2I books for school-aged and young adult readers.

THE BARE NAKED BOOK
BY KATHY STINSON AND MELISSA CHO

This book has been a children’s classic since it was first published in 1986. The revised version was released back in March this year and it is still a good read. The author noted that it was important for her to update the book given the new understanding this generation has on gender. Another fun fact about the updated version is the inclusivity of people with disabilities and different religions. It is a great book for pre-school children and broaches these heavy topics in a fun relatable way that makes it easy for them to understand. It is an empowering book, that both parents and children can enjoy.

THE STREET BELONGS TO US
BY KARLEEN PENDLETON JIMÈNEZ

The American-Canadian author released this queer identity book this year and it is a good read for 8-12 year olds. The book is based on the adventures of two best friends in 1980s Los Angeles. Alex is a tomboy while Wolf is a troubled kid and they take advantage of the construction on their street to start an exuberant war with neighbouring kids .

It is a book that celebrates the adventures of a youthful summer and still manages to have a unique depth when it comes to history, Mexican-American identity and experience.

BRUISED
BY TANYA BOTEJU

Boteju is an amazing Canadian author who also wrote the YA novel Kings, Queens and In-Betweens. Bruised is her most recent book , published in March . The book is about a young girl named Daya who is handling grief while also trying to figure out her gender identity and falling in love for the first time . It is one of those books that will touch your heart .

Daya’s road to getting past the grief , healing and finding strength to go on will keep you hooked . This is a great book for teenagers because they will be able to relate to Daya in one way or another .

ZARA HOSSAIN IS HERE
BY SABINA KHAN

Khan is a Muslim author originally from Bangladesh but is now settled in British Vancouver. Zora Hossain is Here is a book about the Islam culture, gender diversity and love . Our protagonist is a 17 year old Pakistani immigrant, Zara whose family has settled in Texas. She has a hard time in her new Catholic school given she is the only Muslim girl. She is bullied and as things escalate , she must choose between taking a stand and defending herself or lose things she holds dear. It is a good read for young adults especially immigrant kids who may be going through similar experiences.

A DARK AND HOLLOW STAR
BY ASHLEY SHUTTLEWORTH

Shuttleworth is a young adult fantasy author who resides in Ontario. This is their debut book and it is worth a read . The book follows four LGBTQ2I characters who have a magical connection and key pieces of truths that can solve a series of mysterious murders in Toronto. They have to come together and form an alliance to solve the crimes and restore the balance of scales between the Mortal and Immortal realms . It is a good book that will take you into a magical world while you hang on the edge of your seat.

Christine Kinori is a travel freelance writer. “I enjoy meeting new people and experiencing new culture. I believe in equality and I want my daughter to live in a better world.”