Read With Pride!

Here at Susquehanna University, we don’t typically get the opportunity to celebrate Pride Month in June (seeing as we tend to finish Spring Semester in mid-May) as such, we usually partake in the festivities in April, and this year the Student Library Advisory Committee pulled together a list of 45 of our most popular LGBTQIA+ titles to bring awareness and show support for the queer community. Now, I don’t want to bore you with a paragraph about each one of these amazing books, so I have picked two from each category to share with you.

Young Adult

All Boys Aren’t Blue by George Johnson

All Boys Aren’t Blue by George M. Johnson is a powerful memoir-manifesto that explores the intersections of Black and queer identity. The book is a collection of personal essays detailing Johnson’s experiences growing up as a Black queer person in America, delving into themes of identity, family, trauma, and resilience. Johnson begins by recounting their childhood, highlighting the love and support from their family, particularly their grand-mother, Nanny, who played a significant role in their life. The narrative addresses the challenges of navigating masculinity and sexuality in a society that often marginalizes both Black and queer individuals. 

The book does not shy away from difficult topics such as sexual abuse and bullying, offering an honest and unflinching look at the pain and adversity Johnson faced. Yet, it also celebrates the joys and triumphs, illustrating the author’s journey to self-acceptance and pride in their identity through their intimate and engaging writing, blending personal anecdotes with broader social commentary. All Boys Aren’t Blue serves as both a fantastic memoir and a guide for young queer people of color, providing solace, validation, and a sense of community. It is a heartfelt and urgent call for equality and understanding, making it an essential read for both young adults and those seeking to understand the complexities of identity.

Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo

One of my favorite genres is queer historical fiction, Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo is no exception, being a beautiful romance novel set in 1950s San Francisco. The story centers on Lily Hu, a Chinese American teenager who discovers her sexuality in an era and community where being gay is fraught with danger and discrimination. Lily’s life changes when she stumbles upon a lesbian bar called the Telegraph Club, an underground haven for women like her. There, she meets Kathleen Miller, a white girl from her high school, and the two develop a deep, romantic relationship. As their bond grows, Lily battles with the fear of being outed and the potential repercussions on her family, who are already under scrutiny due to the Red Scare and anti-Chinese sentiments.

The novel vividly portrays the Chinatown community and the challenges of navigating multiple marginalized identities. Lily’s internal struggle with her feelings and her fear of societal rejection are depicted with sensitivity and authenticity, while her relationship with Kathleen offers a stark contrast to her conservative upbringing, highlighting the tension between tradition and the desire for personal freedom. Malinda Lo’s meticulous research and evocative prose brings the 1950s setting to life, capturing the era’s social dynamics and the clandestine nature of LGBTQ+ spaces. The novel also addresses broader issues such as racism, xenophobia, and the impact of McCarthyism on Chinese American families. Last Night at the Telegraph Club is a tender and compelling exploration of first love, identity, and the courage it takes to live authentically.

Adult Fiction

Shuggie Bain by Douglas Stewart 

Another historical fiction exists in Douglas Stewart’s Shuggie Bain, a harrowing novel set in 1980s Glasgow, detailing the life of a young boy, Shuggie Bain, and his struggle to care for his alcoholic mother, Agnes. The novel paints a stark portrait of poverty, addiction, and resilience in a working-class Scottish community. Shuggie is a sensitive and effeminate boy, often ostracized and bullied for his differences. His mother, Agnes, is a beautiful and charismatic woman whose life unravels due to her dependence on alcohol. Abandoned by her husband, she spirals deeper into addiction, leaving Shuggie to shoulder the responsibilities of caring for her. 

Stuart’s narrative delves into the complexities of their familial relationship, capturing moments of tenderness and profound sadness, and set against the backdrop of a decaying industrial city, the book highlights the economic and social challenges faced by the working class. Stuart’s vivid descriptions and authentic dialogue immerse readers in the gritty reality of Glasgow life during this harrowing period of time. Shuggie Bain is a heart-wrenching exploration of love, loyalty, and survival, examining the enduring bond between mother and son and the toll of addiction on family dynamics.

Under the Udala Trees by Chinelo Okparanta 

Under the Udala Trees by Chinelo Okparanta is a coming-of-age novel set against the backdrop of Nigeria’s civil war and its aftermath. The story follows Ijeoma, a young Igbo girl, whose life is irrevocably changed by the conflict and her burgeoning awareness of her sexuality. The narrative begins with Ijeoma’s childhood, marked by the turmoil of the Biafran War. After losing her father, she is sent away by her grieving mother to live with a family friend for safety. There, Ijeoma meets Amina, a Hausa girl, and their friendship quickly blossoms into a deep, romantic relationship.  As she grows up, she faces immense pressure to conform to societal and religious expectations, especially for her devout Christian mother.

Okparanta’s lyrical prose and vivid storytelling bring to life the vibrant culture and harsh realities of Nigeria’s civil war. The novel tackles themes of forbidden love, faith, and the clash between personal freedom and societal expectations. Through Ijeoma’s eyes, readers experience the emotional and psychological toll of living in a society that does not accept who you are. Under the Udala Trees is a compelling and heart-wrenching tale of love and survival, highlighting the bravery it takes to live in the face of oppression. It is a powerful exploration of the intersection of sexuality, culture, and faith.

Graphic Novel

Flung Out Of Space by Grace Ellis and Hannah Templer

Flung Out of Space: Inspired by the Indecent Adventures of Patricia Highsmith by Grace Ellis is a graphic novel that delves into the early life of famed author Patricia Highsmith. Set in the 1940s to 1950s, the book provides a nuanced portrayal of Highsmith’s struggle with her identity, creative ambitions, and the societal constraints of her time. The story opens with Highsmith working as a writer for comic books, a job she despises but needs to make ends meet. Despite her success in this field, she yearns to write serious literature. Ellis and Templer explore Highsmith’s complex romantic and platonic relationships, as her affairs with women highlight the tension between desire and the pervasive societal norms. 

Central to the narrative is the creation of Highsmith’s groundbreaking novel The Price of Salt (later republished as “Carol”), one of the first lesbian novels to have a happy ending. This work becomes a lifeline for Highsmith, providing an outlet for her to express her true self under the guise of fiction. Illustrated by Hannah Templer, the graphic novel combines expressive artwork with a compelling narrative to bring Highsmith’s story to life. Flung Out of Space is a tribute to the resilience and complexity of Patricia Highsmith, capturing the tumultuous journey of a woman who defied societal norms to find her voice and live authentically.

Messy Roots by Laura Gao

Messy Roots: A Graphic Memoir of a Wuhanese American by Laura Gao is a touching and insightful graphic novel that explores the author’s experiences growing up as a queer Chinese American. Through vibrant illustrations and candid storytelling, Gao navigates the complexities of cultural identity, family, and self-acceptance. The memoir begins with Gao’s early childhood in Wuhan, China, capturing the warmth and challenges of her formative years. Her family’s decision to move to the United States marks a significant turning point, thrusting young Laura into a world that feels both exciting and alien. As she grows up in Texas, she grapples with the pressures of assimilation, often feeling caught between two cultures.

Gao’s narrative addresses the internal and external struggles of being a first-generation immigrant. She highlights the clash between her traditional Chinese upbringing and the desire to fit in with her American peers. This conflict is compounded by the rise of anti-Asian sentiment, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, which brings Wuhan into the global spotlight and adds another layer of complexity to her identity. Throughout the memoir, Gao explores themes of belonging and self-discovery. Her journey is marked by moments of humor, pain, and triumph as she learns to embrace her multifaceted identity. Messy Roots is not just a personal story but a broader commentary on the immigrant experience. 

Non-Fiction

Glitter and Concrete by Elyssa Maxx Goodman

A new addition to our library, Glitter and Concrete: A Cultural History of Drag in New York City by Elyssa Maxx Goodman is an enlightening exploration of the rich and vibrant history of drag culture in New York City. Spanning several decades, the book delves into the evolution of drag and its significant impact on the city’s social and cultural landscape. Goodman begins by tracing the origins of drag in New York, highlighting its roots in vaudeville and underground performance scenes of the early 20th century. The narrative chronicles the rise of drag as a form of artistic expression and social commentary, showcasing its role in challenging gender norms and societal expectations.

The book offers detailed accounts of iconic drag venues, such as the legendary Stonewall Inn, and pivotal moments like the Stonewall Riots, which marked a turning point in LGBTQ+ rights activism. Goodman introduces readers to a diverse array of drag performers, from early pioneers to contemporary stars, capturing their unique contributions and struggles. Glitter and Concrete also examines the intersectionality within the drag community, addressing issues of race, gender, and sexuality. Goodman provides insight into how drag has served as a platform for marginalized voices, fostering a sense of community and resilience amidst adversity. By weaving together personal anecdotes, historical events, and cultural analysis, Glitter and Concrete presents a comprehensive and celebratory history of drag in New York City, emphasizing its enduring influence and relevance in contemporary society.

Out In Central Pennsylvania by William Burton and Barry Loveland