LGBTQIA+ Voices to Check Out in Nonfiction

Before Pride Month ends, we wanted to spotlight these talented voices from the LGBTQIA+ community. We hope that they inspire and encourage not only for June, but for all year long. Happy reading!

With echoes of Gwendolyn Brooks and Sonia Sanchez, Mans writes to call herself—and us—home. Each poem explores what it means to be a daughter of Newark, and America—and the painful, joyous path to adulthood as a young, queer Black woman.

Black Girl, Call Home , by Jasmine Mans, Book | eBook

In this hilarious, tenderhearted book, LGBTQ advice columnist John Paul Brammer shares his story of growing up biracial and in the closet in America’s heartland, while attempting to answer some of life’s most challenging questions.

Hola Papi, by John Paul Brammer, eBook | eAudiobook

In My Sister, Orange Is the New Black star Selenis Leyva and Marizol Leyva narrate, in alternating chapters, their shared journey, challenges, and triumphs. They write honestly about the issues of violence, abuse, and discrimination that transgender people and women of color—and especially trans women of color—experience daily.

My Sister, by Selenis Leyva and Marizol Leyva, Book

This follow-up to the wildly successful Over the Top features thoughtful essays in Jonathan Van Ness’s signature voice, with topics including body positivity, healing and grief, personal style, tales from the hair salon, overcoming imposter syndrome, and issues surrounding systemic racism, cannabis reform, LGBTQ rights and HIV/AIDS awareness.

Love That Story, by Jonathan Van Ness, Book

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LGBTQIA+ Voices to Check Out in Nonfiction