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Reading books is an incredible way to enjoy alternate realities, as well as stretch the mind. Why then is it so darn hard to find books with characters we can relate to?
One of the best reasons to jump into a new novel is to find yourself in the main character’s shoes. That’s exactly why there’s a growing need for books with LGBTQ characters.
As LGBTQ people, we also deserve books where we can imagine ourselves as the characters, relate to the plotlines, and learn from their life lessons along the way.
Legendary Books with LGBT Characters
Keep reading for this guide to seven epic books with LGBT characters that you’ll enjoy regardless of how young or old you are.
1. The Song of Achilles
One of the best books with queer characters is The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller. Especially if you’re interested in Greek Mythology, then this retelling of The Illiad will undeniably have you interested.
This book explores the relationship between Achilles and Patroclus which is a very rare relationship for its time. You’ll experience the epic battle of the well known Trojan War.
It will leave you devastated and heartbroken, but it is a story that you will be raving about to all of your friends.
2. It’s Not Like It’s a Secret
Another one of our favorite books with gay characters is It’s Not Like It’s a Secret by Misa Sugiura. As you can tell from the title this book is filled with plenty of secrets but of course, those secrets are going to get out.
One of those secrets is that the main character, Sana, has a crush on her best friend who is also a girl.
This is a sweet story about two girls of color who fall in love. It is a light-hearted book that many can relate too. You’ll find diversity, friendship, humor, love, stereotypes, and acceptance in this book.
There are also quite a few poems throughout this book for people who love poetry. On the other hand, the author does a great job of explaining her use of poetry throughout the book as well.
3. Luna
If you’re seeking transgender representation within your reading, then Luna by Julie Anne Peters is the one for you. Liam doesn’t feel like herself during the daytime, which is why she has named herself Luna after the moon.
At night time, Luna’s sister helps her transform into the beautiful girl she is meant to be. They change her clothes and do her makeup. Until one day she is ready to show everyone the real Luna!
Take note that the story is told from the sister’s point of view, but it is one worth reading.
4. Echo After Echo
On our list of best books with LGBT characters is Echo After Echo by Amy Rose Capetta. This is a captivating novel about a Broadway theater crew getting ready for opening night. Of course, nothing can go as planned when a murder happens as well as the fact that there might even be a curse on the set of the theater.
Don’t forget about the two beautiful female characters in the book who must work closely together during the rehearsals and set up. One is a lead role in the play while the other is the assistant lighting designer.
You’ll fall madly in love with the characters as they fall madly in love with each other. It’s a fantastic novel that you will want to keep coming back to.
5. Two Boys Kissing
There isn’t a more obvious book with queer characters than Two Boys Kissing by David Levithan but it is one you must read.
In this book, two seventeen-year-olds plan to take part in a thirty-two-hour kissing marathon so that they can set a Guinness World Record.
During this long kiss, many other teens deal with coming out, gender identity, and relationships. It’s an emotional book that will pull at your heartstrings.
6. Tash Hearts Tolstoy
Have you ever dreamed about becoming internet famous on YouTube? If so, then this is the book for you! Tash Hearts Tolstoy by Kathryn Ormsbee is all about Tash being shoved into the spotlight after one of her YouTube videos goes viral.
Her YouTube series is a modern version of Anna Karenina but has gained lots of attention. This means that she has tons of new followers who are wanting her to produce the best content ever.
We find out that Tash has a crush on another content creator but how can she reveal that she is asexual? This is a great book if you’re looking for asexual representation, because it is something that we rarely see explored in print.
This book is more than romantic relationships as well. It has an interesting plot and wonderful characters that you will become invested in.
7. Carry On
If you ever wanted to read a story about gay wizards, then Carry On by Rainbow Rowell has you covered. This is a ghost story, love story, and mystery all packed into one!
Simon Snow is a student at Watford School of Magic and also happens to be the chosen one. Of course, he can’t make his wand work half the time which makes him the worst chosen one ever.
His roommate Baz also might be an evil vampire, but you’re going to have to read the book to find out.
This is a book you won’t be able to put down so be prepared to spend hours of your life reading it as soon as you start. It is entertaining, wild, and contains numerous characters to whom you’re sure to relate.
Epic Books With LGBT Characters
More authors are writing fantastic books with LGBT characters but it is up to you to read as many as you can. Finding characters that we can relate to in books is a great feeling so be sure to check some of these off of your reading list as soon as possible.
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Arneda Ferro says
I am sure that these are wonderful books, however you are missing Ruby Fruit Jungle, Desert of the Heart, Claire of the Moon, Curious Wine. These were published the now defunct NAIAD Press. The Publisher was Barbara Grier who I had the awesome pleasure to speak with.