LGBTQIA+

Delightful and whimsical illustrations fill the pages along with wonderful text from a child's point of view about how a family is a family no matter what yours may look like. -Angie

Ever thought about who might have invented the high five? It was 1970s pro baseball player Glenn Burke! This biographical picture book follows Glenn Burke's brief but illustrious career in the major leagues, including the moment he and fellow player Dusty Baker spontaneously invented the high five. For Burke, a unique individual who was always joking, cheering, and dancing in the dugout, it was a natural progression. Burke also happened to be a Black gay man in the 1970s, and, heartbreakingly, he was pushed out of the league and later struggled with homelessness and substance abuse, dying of AIDS-related illness at only 42. These topics are dealt with sensitively but honestly in this picture book biography. I hope readers think of Burke every time they high-five someone after reading this story - a man who only now is being recognized for his legacy, not only in inventing such an iconic gesture, but in paving the way for LGBT+ athletes. If you want more on Burke, there is a middle-grade fiction title also by Phil Bildner that ties together the stories of Burke and a modern-day LGBT+ young male baseball player, also an excellent book. -Anne W

A very informative and gripping dystopian novel that will make you think about the U.S. prison system and how we consume modern-day professional sports. -Annie

A cool reimagining of the 1872 classic "Carmilla" that takes queer vampire murder mystery to a new level by incorporating Chinese folklore in the heart of 1990s New York. Perfect for the dark season! -Annie

From an author that primarily writes regency-era romance, I was so excited to see this historical romance set in a 1950s newsroom. Sebastian captures the time and place perfectly of 1950s New York City--the twinge of nostalgia post-WWII, mixed with the sense that big social change is on the horizon. I loved the banter between the love interests, Nick and Andy, and the way they work to create a life together and push against the boundaries society has created for them. It's quite emotional, but manages to also be funny and light-hearted throughout. If you enjoy the banter and tenderness of Emily Henry or the historical setting of Patricia Highsmith's The Price of Salt, I highly recommend checking out this romance. -Bailey

This is without a doubt one of the best YA novels I've ever read and it definitely deserves more readership! Perfect for lovers of music, art, anime and friends-to-lovers arcs, -Bailey

Harry Woodgate continues the story of Grandad's Camper in their second picture, Grandad's Pride. Grandad and Milly are back for another adventure, this time honoring the past and celebrating the future with a pride parade in their community. Woodgate's artwork is vibrant and colorful, making the characters bright and heartwarming. -Angie

This book gave me all the feels! I love a sapphic spin on the cheerleader/star player trope and this one did not disappoint! Amber and Jack had amazing chemistry and banter that had me completely invested in their relationship! While this book does tackle heavy themes of homophobia and misogyny, it does so while still remaining lighthearted and fun. -Bailey

This book was pure fun with a modern spin on the marriage-of-convenience trope. I loved the bookstore setting, nods to the romance industry, and best of all, all the hidden taylor swift references! If you love rich people drama, great communication, and over-the-top shenanigans, I recommend picking this one up! -Bailey

This adorable graphic novel series is ultimate spring vibes--full of whimsy, bright colors, and beautiful stories of friendship, reading it feels like a late-spring picnic. -Bailey

Every single story in this collection is beautifully crafted, emotionally impactful, with characters you'll feel connected to even in just a few pages. This was truly a delight to read, perfect for taking a pause between weekend errands. -Bailey

This was unlike anything I've ever read before and left me thinking every time I put it down. Not only is this about lesbian necromancers in space, it's hilarious and full of twists as Gideon finds herself part of deadly challenges amidst a suspicious cast of characters. You can expect not to fully understand what's going on to start, but your understanding of the world and the plot grows as time goes on, much like the characters themselves begin to shift perspectives as the nature of the challenges they face become more apparent. -Bailey

This middle grade novel is such a charming, wholesome book that perfectly captures the inner struggles of so many autistic teens: the desire to be seen as "normal" as peers, even when the energy to do so it is to the individual's detriment. Reading about Ellen making new friends and exploring a new place is so much fun to encounter for kids, and was so delightful to read as an adult. -Bailey

This YA thriller blends mystery with contemporary as Sam navigates life at a new school and works with new friends to solve a decades-old murder. I adore the way Sam's autism is such an integral part of their life or experience without overshadowing their personality or driving the plot. The mystery was intriguing and left me guessing until the end! -Bailey

This book is an exploration of internalized homophobia, dysphoria, and keeping your head above water. It follows a teenage swimmer struggling to explore themselves and remain competitive in the sport they love. -Bailey

This book broke my heart and pieced it back together. This is an intense and beautiful love story, but it's not a romance: it's an ode to internet friendships, the power of art, and the endurance of love across time and space. -Bailey

I love both of the sing-along picture books by Lil Miss Hot Mess! They are so fun to act out and sing and the illustrations are colorful and so fun to look at! This one was an absolute hit sung and performed by local drag queen Valencia, especially her dramatic twirling of her dress! This book is a staple for Drag Storytimes and an absolute blast to read at any time! -Mari

A cookbook, a history book, a science book, and a biography rolled into one! Sandor Katz is an American food writer, DIY food activist, Jewish LGBT+ man, and haver of cool facial hair who started a school that teaches people how to ferment foods. If you're not sure what fermentation is, then you definitely need to read this book! Learn about Sandor Katz's life and inspiration, how fermentation works, why fermented foods are so healthy for you, get the instructions to try it for yourself, then grow up and start a radical commune in the woods just like Sandor! -Anne W

A great read together story that is reassuring to kids whose families may not fit gender norms or who might be navigating their own feelings about gender identity and affirmation. There is plenty of sparkle and fun to engage all ages throughout the story. The author note at the end is in inclusive language, talkable and presented in an approachable way to learn more about gender and drag queens. -Angie

A fantastical reimagining of "The Great Gatsby"— told from the perspective of Jordan Baker, a queer Vietnamese American. Read while you wait for Nghi Vo’s new novel, “Siren Queen.” -Becky

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