As 2020 comes to a close, everyone is trying to reach their reading goals for the year, so we’ve compiled a list of the best quick LGBTQ+ reads to make sure everyone can hit their target. From graphic novels to novellas, to books so good we couldn’t put them down – we’re sure you’ll find something to whizz through as we approach the end of this year!
Heartstopper by Alice Oseman – Originally a webcomic, this sweet and earnest graphic novel by Young Adult author Alice Oseman is a window into the lives of Nick and Charlie as they navigate love, life and everything in between.
Boy Meets Boy by David Levithan – A slice-of-life romantic comedy set in an idyllic, judgement-free town. Perfect for a bit of escapism!
Giant Days by John Alison – Set at a UK university, this graphic novel sees new friends Susan, Esther and Daisy navigating the perils of their first time away from home. Freshers’ flu, gross guys and old rivalries revived? They’ll need each other to survive!
Her Body and Other Parties by Carmen Maria Machado – A queer, otherworldly collection of short stories, centred around the female body. This strange, visceral collection is not for the faint of heart.
Knit One, Girl Two by Shira Glassman – In this feel-good #ownvoices novella, two queer Jewish girls find inspiration, friendship and love in each other.
On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong – A story written in the form of a letter from a son to his mother. Delve into the beautiful prose and be ready to shed a few tears.
The Gender Games by Juno Dawson – Featuring stories from well-known activists including the likes of Hannah Witton and Rebecca Root, The Gender Games acts as a public notice, shedding light on stories of gender and societal expectations.
Why be Happy When You Could be Normal? by Jeanette Winterson – A memoir of hurting, healing and overcoming. Deeply personal, honest and moving, but filled with Winterson’s sharp wit; this is a book about loving books.
Annie on My Mind by Nancy Garden – A groundbreaking classic, Annie on My Mind is the story of two adolescent lesbians falling in love despite pressures from all sides.
Giovanni’s Room by James Baldwin – A classic of gay literature set in 1950s Paris.
We Have Always Been Here by Samra Habib – A queer Muslim memoir exploring faith, love, art, self and sexuality.
Symptoms of Being Human by Jeff Garvin – An illuminating Young Adult story about a genderfluid teen trying to navigate a so-called ‘normal’ life.
Bloom by Kevin Panetta and Savanna Ganucheau – Full of beautiful and intricate illustrations, this delicious graphic novel is a story of young love, making mistakes and learning to grow.
Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up with Me by Mariko Tamaki and Rosemary Valero-O’Connell – A sweet and heartbreaking graphic novel with a gorgeous art-style, all about the addictiveness of loving someone who is always just out of reach.
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller – This classic is based on the Trojan war and will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat as you follow the journey of Patroclus and Achilles.
The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern – For fans of amazing worldbuilding and magical realism. So good you’ll probably finish it in one sitting!