At Chicago Public Library, we believe every teen deserves to see themselves in the stories they read. Whether you're looking to feel understood, discover a new perspective, or dive into a world where identity is explored and celebrated, these titles shine a spotlight on the full spectrum of LGBTQIA+ experiences. From high school drama to magical realism to historical activism, each book below highlights a letter in the LGBTQIA+ acronym—and each one belongs on your to-be-read list.
L – The Prom by Saundra Mitchell
Love, glitter, and protest take center stage in this novel adaptation of the Broadway musical. When Emma wants to take her girlfriend to prom, her small Indiana town says no—but a group of washed-up Broadway stars says yes, sparking a media storm and a celebration of love that can’t be silenced.
G – You Brought Me the Ocean by Alex Sanchez and Julie Maroh
Jake Hyde is drawn to the ocean—despite growing up in the desert—and drawn to Kenny, his best friend. This beautifully illustrated graphic novel blends coming out, first love, and a hint of superhero origin story in a tale as deep and powerful as the sea itself.
B – Perfect on Paper by Sophie Gonzales
Darcy Phillips is bisexual, anonymous advice-giver, and totally in over her head. When the school’s golden boy enlists her to help win back his ex, things get complicated. Smart, witty, and heartfelt, this rom-com explores identity, labels, and what it really means to be honest—with others and with yourself.
T – Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender
Felix Love has never been in love, painful irony that it is. He desperately wants to know why it seems so easy for everyone but him to find someone. He is proud of his identity, but fears that he's one marginalization too many-- Black, queer, and transgender. When an anonymous student begins sending him transphobic messages-- after publicly posting Felix's deadname alongside images of him before he transitioned-- Felix comes up with a plan for revenge. He didn't count on his catfish scenario landing him in a quasi-love triangle.
Q – Love & Resistance edited by Jason Baumann
Queer history lives and breathes in this powerful collection of firsthand accounts, photographs, and ephemera from the years leading up to and following the Stonewall Uprising. A vital resource for young readers looking to understand where we’ve been—and how far we’ve come.
A – The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee
Adventure, aristocracy, and attraction collide in this swashbuckling historical romp. Monty, a bisexual English lord, embarks on a European tour with his best friend (and crush), Percy. Packed with humor, danger, and undeniable chemistry, this one’s a wild ride through history and the heart.
I – Just Ash by Sol Santana
Ash is intersex—and he’s known that for a while—but when his secret is suddenly revealed to the entire school, everything changes. His family is split on how to “handle” him, the bullying ramps up, and Ash is forced to confront what it really means to live as his authentic self. Told with honesty, vulnerability, and strength, Just Ash is a powerful story about identity, autonomy, and the courage it takes to speak up—even when the world tries to speak for you.
+ – It's Totally Normal! by Monica Gupta
Exploring the experiences of asexual and aromantic teens with empathy and humor, It’s Totally Normal is a heartfelt coming-of-age story about embracing your identity—even when it feels like no one around you quite gets it. A perfect read for anyone navigating the “plus” side of the spectrum and looking for a reminder that your experience is real, valid, and—yes—totally normal.
Looking for your next empowering read? All of these titles are available at your local Chicago Public Library branch or online through our digital collections. What LGBTQAI+ teen read do you think should be on this list? Let us know in the comments.
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