.png)
Happy Pride everyone! I know it’s not quite June yet (despite the glorious weather) but with Exeter Pride taking place on May 10, it’s never too early to celebrate the LBGTQIA+ community, whether as an ally or a member. What better way to do this than with a book to enjoy in these light summer evenings?
The T in LGBT+
The T in LGBT+ is a conversational and approachable book by the internet personality Jamie Raines (aka Jammidodger) about the realities of being trans in the UK, discussing topics from dysphoria to hormones and surgery.
Non-Binary Lives
With the subtitle ‘An anthology of intersecting identities’, Non-Binary Lives is a book aimed at exploring the complexities of intersectionality experienced by non-binary people, touching on faith, race and sexuality, as just some examples.
Youngman
The memoir entitled Youngman follows Lou Sullivan’s life from 1961 to 1991 through his diary entries, giving the reader a direct insight into Lou coming to terms with his transgender and gay identities.
Sensible Footwear
Sensible Footwear by Kate Charlesworth is an award-winning graphic novel that depicts lesbian identities from 1950 to the present day. This book provides a beautiful and emotional insight into challenges faced by queer women and is particularly personal due to its nature as a memoir.
A Short History of Queer Women
Kirsty Loehr takes a sarcastic jab at how queer women have been presented (and erased) throughout history in her book A Short History of Queer Women, taking the reader on a light-hearted journey from pirates to poets.
No Modernism Without Lesbians
No Modernism Without Lesbians, by Diana Souhami, brings to life the birth of the Modernist movement in Paris and the core role played by a group of lesbian women within that.
The Milkman’s on His Way
Published in 1982, The Milkman’s on His Way was a controversial book by David Rees as it was one of the first queer young adult novels to appear in the UK. It follows the coming-of-age story of Evan as he realises his gay identity and is now known as a modern classic.
Coming Out Stories
Coming Out Stories, edited by Emma Goswell and Sam Walker, is a collection of just that: an array of real-life experiences of coming out as queer across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. Based on the popular podcast of the same name, this book is uplifting and a powerful way of showing solidarity throughout the queer community.
Loud and Proud
Tea Uglow’s Loud and Proud is a compilation of inspirational speeches from members of the LGBTQIA+ community and allies, including names such as Elton John and Barack Obama.
Rainbow History Class
Rainbow History Class by Hannah McElhinney takes the reader on a journey from the ancient world to the present day by means of highlighting queer individuals and stories throughout the ages.
All these books and more can be found in the Community Library outside the Greenhouse in Devonshire House - happy reading and happy Pride!
Written by Matilda Jenkins (Student Community Librarian)