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Pride Month Reads for Every Age: Celebrate Pride with Inclusive Stories for All
- coalvalleylibrary
- Jun 1
- 4 min read
Pride Month is a time to celebrate love, identity, resilience, and the beautiful diversity of the LGBTQIA+ community. Whether you’re looking for powerful coming-of-age stories, tender love stories, or eye-opening nonfiction, there’s a book waiting to connect with every reader—regardless of age.
At the Coal Valley Public Library, we believe stories can foster understanding, spark empathy, and help everyone feel seen. In the spirit of that belief, we’ve rounded up some standout reads for every age group—books that honor the spectrum of LGBTQIA+ experiences and offer unforgettable journeys for readers to explore.
Browse these hidden gems and time-honored favorites—then follow the links to place a hold and get reading!
For Little Listeners & Early Readers
Julián Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love
When Julián sees three women dressed as mermaids on the subway, something magical awakens in him. At home, he transforms into a mermaid using items he finds around the house—until he worries what his abuela will think. With stunning watercolor illustrations and minimal text, this book tells a story of acceptance, self-expression, and unconditional love in a way even the youngest readers can understand.
Pride: The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag by Rob Sanders
This vibrant picture book introduces young readers to the inspiring true story of Harvey Milk, one of the first openly gay elected officials in the U.S., and how the rainbow flag became a symbol of hope and equality around the world. With accessible language and vivid illustrations, it’s a perfect way to spark conversations about activism, representation, and love.
For Middle Grade Readers
The Best at It by Maulik Pancholy
Twelve-year-old Rahul Kapoor is determined to have the best school year ever, especially now that he’s in seventh grade. His grandfather tells him to find one thing he’s good at and be the best at it. But as Rahul navigates bullies, anxiety, and his growing feelings toward his classmate Justin, he learns that being your best doesn’t mean being like everyone else. Heartfelt, humorous, and authentic, this coming-of-age story explores identity, family, and the courage to be yourself.
Melissa (formerly George) by Alex Gino
Everyone thinks Melissa is a boy, but she knows she’s a girl. When her fourth-grade class puts on a play of Charlotte’s Web, Melissa wants to play Charlotte, but her teacher says she can’t because she’s "a boy." With the help of her best friend, Melissa finds the strength to show the world who she truly is. A trailblazing middle grade novel that introduced many readers to the power of gender identity and inclusive storytelling.
For Teens & Young Adults
Heartstopper series by Alice Oseman
Charlie, a quiet and openly gay teen, and Nick, a cheerful rugby player, meet at school—and their friendship quickly blossoms into something more. Told in graphic novel format, this beautifully illustrated and emotionally resonant series explores themes of love, self-discovery, mental health, and the importance of supportive friendships. Heartwarming and tender, Heartstopper is perfect for fans of slow-burn romance and authentic teen experiences.
Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo
In 1954 San Francisco, Chinese American teenager Lily Hu is expected to excel in school, avoid trouble, and live up to her family’s high expectations. But when she secretly begins visiting a lesbian nightclub called the Telegraph Club, Lily finds herself pulled into a world that feels both terrifying and exhilarating. As she begins to fall in love and understand her identity, Lily must also confront the cultural, familial, and societal pressures of the era. Richly researched and emotionally profound, this novel is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and queer representation.
For Adults
The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune
Linus Baker leads a quiet, rule-bound life as a caseworker for the Department in Charge of Magical Youth. When he's assigned to assess a mysterious orphanage on a remote island, he expects a routine report. Instead, he finds six unusual children and their enigmatic caretaker, Arthur Parnassus. As Linus grows closer to this magical family, he begins to question everything he’s ever believed about rules, love, and what makes a home. Whimsical, humorous, and filled with heart, this novel is a celebration of found families and queer joy.
Detransition, Baby by Torrey Peters
This daring and deeply layered novel explores what happens when Reese, a transgender woman yearning for motherhood, is invited by her ex, Ames—who has detransitioned and now lives as a man—to co-parent a child with him and his cisgender girlfriend, Katrina. Together, the three must navigate gender, identity, and unconventional paths to family. Peters' sharp writing and fearless approach to complex emotional territory make this a standout work of contemporary queer fiction.
No matter your age or where you are on your reading journey, Pride Month is a wonderful time to discover stories that broaden perspectives and celebrate humanity in all its vibrant forms.
And remember: these are just the beginning. Stop by the library or browse our online catalog to explore even more LGBTQIA+ titles. Let books be your guide as you connect with the world of literature—one meaningful story at a time.
Happy Pride from all of us at the Coal Valley Public Library!
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