Over the years, young-adult books have become increasingly popular not only for teens but also for readers from every generation. From Harry Potter, Hunger Games, Twilight, The Fault in Our Stars, and the Percy Jackson series, these modern classics of love, adventure, and friendship have captured the imagination of many.
As we move towards equality, love, and understanding, more and more books are now featuring stories and journeys from LGBTQIA+ individuals that resonate with the struggles and triumphs of the community. Moreover, it also helps young queer readers to learn more about themselves through reading these stories.
With that, here's a list of queer YA novels to inspire you to be true to who you are this #PrideMonth.
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe
Though seemingly having nothing in common, troubled Aristotle, and know-it-all Dante, eventually build a special friendship that changes how they look at themselves, and at life. Perfect for those who enjoy stories about friendship, and being introspective.
Autoboyography
After enrolling himself in a prestigious book writing seminar in Utah, the center of Mormon cultural influence, a young, now back in the closet, bi-sexual teen Tanner Scott, falls in-love with Sebastian Brother, the mentor of this writing class, and a Mormon prodigy who thinks homosexuality is a sin. Perfect for those who find religion's discussion of sexuality fascinating.
Everything Leads to You
After her dream of being a set designer for Hollywood comes true, young Emi meets Ava, a mysterious movie star with an unglamorous past. The gorgeous star makes Emi a part of her unconventional, and enigmatic life, and the two fall-in love. Perfect for those who enjoy stories about Hollywood, and those who love to meet mysterious and exciting people.
Echo After Echo
Landing her dream role in the New York stage adaptation of the Greek tragedy, Echo and Ariston, Zara Evans is living her life! But, nothing in her life has prepared her to face the no-nonsense director, Leopold, 3 murders in the theater, and the enchanting lighting director, Eli Vasquez. Perfect for those who enjoy theater, mystery, and tragedy.
Her Royal Highness
After being cheated on by her sort-of-best friend/sort-of-girlfriend, Millie Quint moves from Houston, to study in a gorgeous boarding school in Scotland. But Millie finds trouble in paradise when she finds herself rooming with the literal princess of Scotland. And does she act like one! But can these two people who barely stand each other find love in each others' arms? Perfect for those who like buddy films, stories about royalty, and moving on from past relationships.
━━ Written By Alec Luigi Fernandez