Happy Pride! Are you looking for a new book to read or film to watch this month? Eavan Davis, circulation account services supervisor, has pulled together six recommendations from our collections. If you’re looking for more non-fiction or research titles, then check out our Staff Picks LibGuide “31 Days of LGBTQ+“.
The Tea Dragon Society by Kay O’Neill
“The Tea Dragon Society” is a middle grade fiction comic book that originated as a web comic by illustrator Kay O’Neill. This book is the sweetest fantasy/slice-of-life comic that follows Greta, a young blacksmith apprentice and soon to be Tea Dragon Society Member, as she learns about the importance of craft and community. The precious art will grab your attention first, but the heartwarming story will keep you enveloped for all, albeit few, 60 pages. Luckily there are 2 other books if you want to be in the tea dragon world a bit longer.
Where to find it: CMC Middle Grade Fic; One
The Sun and The Star by Rick Riordan and Mark Oshiro
“The Sun and The Star” is a middle grade fiction novel coauthored by Rick Riordan and Mark Oshiro. It is set in the familiar PJLU (Percy Jackson Literary Universe) but follows demigods Nico Di Angelo, son of Hades, and his boyfriend Will Solace, son of Apollo, as they embark on a treacherous quest together to Tartarus, the deepest, darkest part of the Underworld. If you’re a fan of the Sunshine/Grumpy trope, Greek mythology and angst, this is the book for you. As is common in the PJLU, Nico and Will go through many trials and difficulties on their quest through the Underworld. But they must also confront the darkest parts of themselves to get through it together and come out as stronger individuals and as partners.
Where to find it: CMC Middle Grade Fic; Rio
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
“The Song of Achilles” is a re-telling of the story of mythological Greek hero, Achilles from the point of view of his companion, Patroclus, by novelist Madeline Miller. In the myth, Patroclus is considered Achilles closest friend and life companion. Their relationship as depicted in Homer’s epic, Iliad, is perhaps one of the oldest examples of “historians will say they were just good friends.” With the utmost respect and care for the characters and the story’s roots, Miller does not agree with historians. Over 10 years she crafted a gorgeous and heartwarming story about a love so deep it survives all attempts to kill it, it disobeys the gods and lives on even in the afterlife. This novel is so beautifully written and gives so much respect to its origin that, despite the fated tragedy of the two lovers, you finish the book with your heart and soul glowing.
Where to find it: Main Stacks; PS3613.I5445 S65 2012
Giovanni’s Room by James Baldwin
James Baldwin was an American writer, essayist, poet, speaker and activist, best known for novels such as “The Fire Next Time” and “If Beale Street Could Talk.” Baldwin was deeply ingrained in the American civil and human rights movements in the 1950s and 60s, being a Black gay man himself, and was a close friend of both Malcom X and Martin Luther King Jr. Published in 1956, “Giovanni’s Room” is one of his most controversial novels about the struggles and risks of being queer in that period. The story follows David, an American man living in Paris, as he begins an affair with a man named Giovanni. Throughout the book David struggles with his identity, sexuality, masculinity, social alienation and possible persecution. This book is not for the faint of heart, it is heavy, emotional, dark and distressing at times. However, Baldwin is an exceptional and powerful writer and “Giovanni’s Room” is based on his personal experiences, giving a candid look into the lives of queer people in that era.
Where to find it: Main Stacks; PS3552.A45 G5 2016
Bicycles: Love Poems by Nikki Giovanni
Nikki Giovanni was and remains one of the most impactful American writers, poets, activists and educators. She is well known for her poetry, of which she has an extensive collection. In her life, she was also partnered with and eventually married to a woman. “Bicycles” is a collection of poems that was published in 2009 themed around that love she found with her wife. The poetry in this short collection is tender, intimate, hopelessly romantic but also easily approachable. A great read for any level of poetry fan and anyone trying to restore their faith in love.
Where to find it: Basement; PS3557.I55 B53 2009 (can request)
Pay it No Mind: Marsha P. Johnson (film)
You may recognize her name and maybe you know parts of her story or her profound impact on the gay liberation movement. Marsha ‘Pay It No Mind’ Johnson was a drag queen and activist in New York City in the 1960s. A legendary figurehead of the queer community then and now. This documentary is a celebration of her life and legacy. Included in this 55-minute doc are interview clips with Marsha herself and features from many of her friends from the 1960s and 70s era telling her story. Of course it’s an educational video about Marsha’s life and the gay liberation movements, but it’s also a wonderful exposition of community, friendship, joy and resilience in the face of oppression.
Where to find it: Academic Video Online