Are you searching for the best books about being gay? Look no further! Whether you’re looking for fiction, memoirs, or non-fiction, there’s a book on being gay for everyone. Dive into the 20 best being gay books that celebrate the LGBTQ+ experience, explore identity, and navigate the complexities of love and relationships. From classics to contemporary bestsellers, these books offer powerful and diverse perspectives on the gay experience. Get ready to be captivated, moved, and inspired by these essential reads that illuminate the beauty and challenges of being gay.
Contents
- 1 20 Best Being Gay Books
- 2 Red, White & Royal Blue
- 3 Less
- 4 The Song of Achilles
- 5 Call Me By Your Name
- 6 Giovanni’s Room
- 7 The Color Purple
- 8 Middlesex
- 9 The Picture of Dorian Gray
- 10 Stone Butch Blues
- 11 Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic
- 12 The Price of Salt
- 13 Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit
- 14 A Little Life
- 15 The Line of Beauty
- 16 Fingersmith
- 17 The Hours
- 18 Tipping the Velvet
- 19 Maurice
- 20 The Color of Water
- 21 Orlando
- 22 Final Thoughts on Best Being Gay Books
- 23
20 Best Being Gay Books
Red, White & Royal Blue
by Casey McQuiston
Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston is a heartwarming and swoon-worthy romance novel that follows the love story between Alex Claremont-Diaz, the First Son of the United States, and Prince Henry of Wales. When an altercation at a royal wedding threatens to derail international relations, Alex and Henry are forced to fake a friendship for the public eye. However, as they spend more time together, their animosity turns into a secret romance that could change the course of their lives and the political landscape.
This book is a delightful and refreshing take on the enemies-to-lovers trope, filled with humor, wit, and plenty of steamy moments. It explores themes of identity, family, and love, and offers a compelling portrayal of the struggles and triumphs of being gay in the public eye. With its charming characters and captivating storyline, Red, White & Royal Blue is a must-read for anyone looking for a heartwarming and uplifting being gay book.
Less
by Andrew Sean Greer
Less by Andrew Sean Greer is a humorous and heartfelt novel that follows the misadventures of Arthur Less, a struggling writer who embarks on a round-the-world trip to avoid attending his ex-boyfriend’s wedding. As he travels from one location to another, he grapples with his insecurities and confronts the realities of being a middle-aged gay man in a world that often values youth and beauty.
Throughout the book, Greer skillfully weaves together themes of love, loss, and the search for identity, creating a compelling and relatable story that resonates with readers. Less is a poignant exploration of the complexities of relationships, the pursuit of happiness, and the universal desire for acceptance and belonging.
This award-winning novel is a captivating and insightful read for anyone interested in a moving and humorous portrayal of the human experience, and particularly recommended for those seeking a book about being gay that delves into the challenges and triumphs of navigating life and love as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
The Song of Achilles
by Madeline Miller
The Song of Achilles is a captivating and poetic reimagining of the timeless Greek myth of Achilles and Patroclus. Madeline Miller weaves a rich tapestry of love, friendship, and war, bringing to life the deep bond between the two legendary heroes. The story follows the life of Achilles, a fearless warrior, and his companion Patroclus, as they navigate the complexities of love and honor in the midst of the Trojan War.
Miller’s lyrical prose and meticulous attention to detail create a vivid and enchanting world that draws readers in from the very first page. The novel beautifully explores themes of love, identity, and destiny, making it a must-read for anyone interested in Greek mythology or historical fiction. At its core, The Song of Achilles is a powerful and poignant book about being gay, as it portrays the deep and enduring love between Achilles and Patroclus in a way that is both tender and profound.
Call Me By Your Name
by André Aciman
Call Me By Your Name, written by André Aciman, is a poignant and evocative coming-of-age story set in the sun-drenched Italian countryside. The novel follows the passionate summer romance between 17-year-old Elio and the older, charming American scholar Oliver. As their relationship deepens, the narrative explores the complexities of desire, longing, and identity.
At its core, Call Me By Your Name is a tender exploration of love and self-discovery, capturing the intensity and vulnerability of first love. Aciman’s lyrical prose beautifully conveys the emotional turmoil and yearning that Elio experiences as he grapples with his burgeoning feelings for Oliver.
The novel delves into themes of intimacy, sensuality, and the complexities of sexuality, offering a deeply resonant portrayal of the human experience. Call Me By Your Name is a captivating and achingly beautiful book about being gay that will linger in the hearts of readers long after the final page.
Giovanni’s Room
by James Baldwin
Giovanni’s Room is a poignant and evocative novel by James Baldwin that delves into the complexities of identity, desire, and love. Set in 1950s Paris, the story follows David, a young American man who grapples with his sexuality and his feelings for Giovanni, a charismatic Italian bartender. As David navigates his relationships with both men and women, he is forced to confront the societal expectations and personal conflicts that come with being gay.
Baldwin’s prose is lyrical and expressive, capturing the emotional turmoil and longing that David experiences as he struggles to find his place in the world. The novel provides a raw and honest portrayal of the challenges faced by individuals who are marginalized and oppressed due to their sexual orientation. Giovanni’s Room is more than just a book about being gay; it is a timeless exploration of the human experience, offering insight into the universal themes of love, loneliness, and self-discovery.
The Color Purple
by Alice Walker
The Color Purple by Alice Walker is a poignant and powerful novel that delves into the lives of African American women in the early 20th century. The story is told through letters and diary entries, chronicling the life of Celie, a young girl who faces abuse and hardship at the hands of her father and husband. As she navigates through her struggles, she finds solace and strength in her relationships with other women, including her sister Nettie and the independent and vibrant Shug Avery. The novel explores themes of love, resilience, and the bonds of sisterhood, as well as the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality. It is a profound exploration of the human spirit and the power of hope and redemption. At its core, The Color Purple is a book about being gay, as it portrays the complexities and challenges of LGBTQ+ identity in a society that often marginalizes and oppresses those who do not conform to traditional norms.
Middlesex
by Jeffrey Eugenides
Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that follows the life of Calliope Stephanides, who later becomes known as Cal. This Pulitzer Prize-winning book explores themes of identity, gender, and sexuality as Cal navigates the challenges of growing up intersex in a conservative Greek-American family. The novel offers a rich and multilayered exploration of self-discovery and the search for belonging.
Set against the backdrop of the 20th century, Middlesex delves into the complexities of family history and the impact of cultural and societal norms on personal identity. Eugenides skillfully weaves together elements of Greek mythology, history, and genetics to create a unique and compelling narrative that spans continents and generations.
Through Cal’s journey, readers are invited to contemplate the fluidity of gender and the intricacies of human relationships. Middlesex is a profound and moving exploration of the human experience, making it a must-read for anyone interested in a captivating story about self-discovery and the complexities of being gay.
The Picture of Dorian Gray
by Oscar Wilde
The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde is a captivating novel that delves into the themes of vanity, morality, and the consequences of living a hedonistic lifestyle. The story follows Dorian Gray, a young and handsome man whose portrait ages and bears the consequences of his immoral actions while he remains eternally youthful. As Dorian indulges in a life of pleasure and decadence, the portrait becomes increasingly grotesque, serving as a haunting reminder of his inner corruption.
Wilde’s novel is not only a compelling exploration of the destructive nature of vanity and the pursuit of pleasure, but it also carries a subtext of the author’s own experiences as a gay man in Victorian England. The novel’s themes of hidden desires, societal pressures, and the duality of public versus private personas make it a significant book on being gay, despite the fact that homosexuality was not openly discussed during Wilde’s lifetime.
Stone Butch Blues
by Leslie Feinberg
Stone Butch Blues, a groundbreaking novel by Leslie Feinberg, is a powerful and poignant exploration of gender identity and the struggle for self-acceptance. Set against the backdrop of working-class America in the 1950s and 1960s, the story follows the life of Jess Goldberg, a young butch lesbian coming to terms with her identity in a society that is hostile towards those who do not conform to traditional gender roles.
The novel delves into the challenges faced by individuals who are marginalized for their gender expression, as Jess navigates through the complexities of love, friendship, and activism. Feinberg’s writing is raw and unflinching, capturing the harsh realities of discrimination and the resilience of the human spirit.
Stone Butch Blues is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the experiences of those who defy societal norms and expectations. It is a profoundly moving and important book about being gay, offering a rare and authentic glimpse into the lives of individuals who are often overlooked and misunderstood.
Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic
by Alison Bechdel
Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic is a poignant and deeply personal graphic memoir by Alison Bechdel. The book delves into Bechdel’s complex relationship with her father and her own coming-of-age as a lesbian woman. Through beautiful and evocative illustrations, Bechdel explores themes of family, identity, and the search for self-acceptance.
Fun Home is not just a book about being gay; it’s a raw and unflinchingly honest exploration of the author’s journey to understand her own sexuality and her father’s hidden life as a closeted gay man. The narrative weaves together memories and reflections, creating a powerful and moving portrayal of the complexities of family dynamics and the struggle for authenticity.
Bechdel’s ability to capture the nuances of human emotion and experience through her artwork and storytelling makes Fun Home a compelling and unforgettable read. This book offers a unique perspective on the challenges of being gay and the universal search for understanding and connection.
The Price of Salt
by Patricia Highsmith
The Price of Salt, written by Patricia Highsmith, is a groundbreaking book on being gay that tells the story of Therese Belivet, a young woman who falls in love with the enigmatic and alluring Carol Aird. Set in 1950s New York, the novel explores the complexities of desire, identity, and societal expectations as Therese navigates her feelings for Carol in a time when being gay was taboo.
Highsmith’s writing is both evocative and thought-provoking, as she delves into the emotional and psychological struggles faced by those who are deemed different by society. The Price of Salt is a powerful and beautifully written book about being gay that challenges the status quo and celebrates the courage it takes to love authentically.
With its timeless themes of love, longing, and self-discovery, The Price of Salt remains a poignant and essential read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the human experience.
Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit
by Jeanette Winterson
Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit is a captivating coming-of-age novel by Jeanette Winterson. The story follows the protagonist, Jeanette, as she navigates her strict religious upbringing and her realization of her own sexuality. Set in a small English town, the novel delves into Jeanette’s struggle with her identity as a lesbian and her journey towards self-acceptance.
Winterson’s writing is both poignant and humorous, offering a unique perspective on the experience of growing up gay in a conservative environment. The novel is a powerful exploration of love, faith, and the complexities of personal identity. Through Jeanette’s compelling voice, Winterson crafts a moving and relatable narrative that resonates with readers of all backgrounds.
Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit is a beautifully written and thought-provoking book about the challenges and triumphs of being true to oneself in the face of societal expectations. It is a must-read for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ literature and the experiences of individuals coming to terms with their sexuality.
A Little Life
by Hanya Yanagihara
A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara is a powerful and haunting novel that delves into the lives of four college friends as they navigate the complexities of adulthood in New York City. At its core, the book is a profound exploration of trauma, friendship, and the enduring impact of the past on the present. The story follows Jude, a complex and enigmatic character whose painful past shapes his relationships and his sense of self. The novel delves into the depths of Jude’s past, revealing the harrowing experiences that have shaped him into the person he is today.
Yanagihara’s prose is both tender and unflinching, drawing readers into the lives of the characters with raw emotion and unapologetic honesty. A Little Life is a deeply moving and thought-provoking tale that explores the complexities of love, friendship, and the enduring power of the human spirit. It is a book that will stay with readers long after the final page, offering a profound meditation on the resilience of the human heart.
The Line of Beauty
by Alan Hollinghurst
The Line of Beauty by Alan Hollinghurst is a compelling novel that delves into the complexities of gay identity and desire in 1980s Britain. The story follows Nick Guest, a young gay man who becomes entangled in the lives of the wealthy and privileged Fedden family. As he navigates the glittering world of high society, Nick must grapple with his own desires and the challenges of being a gay man in a society that is often unforgiving.
Hollinghurst’s prose is elegant and evocative, painting a vivid picture of a time and place where being gay was still considered taboo. The novel explores themes of love, lust, and longing, while also delving into the political and social upheavals of the era. The Line of Beauty is a poignant and thought-provoking book about the complexities of being gay, and it offers a rich and immersive reading experience that will resonate with readers of all backgrounds.
Fingersmith
by Sarah Waters
Fingersmith is a gripping historical fiction novel by Sarah Waters that takes readers on a thrilling journey of deception, betrayal, and forbidden love. Set in Victorian England, the story follows the lives of two young women, Sue Trinder and Maud Lilly, who become entangled in a web of deceit and manipulation.
As the plot unfolds, the characters’ lives become increasingly intertwined, leading to unexpected twists and turns that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Fingersmith is a tale of secrets, hidden identities, and the complexities of human relationships.
At its core, Fingersmith is a book about the struggles of being gay in a repressive society, exploring the challenges and triumphs of LGBTQ+ individuals in a time when their love was deemed taboo. The novel beautifully captures the emotional turmoil and resilience of its characters as they navigate their desires and identities in a world that seeks to suppress them.
With its richly drawn characters and evocative historical setting, Fingersmith is a compelling and unforgettable read that delves into the complexities of being gay in a society that seeks to deny one’s true self. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ literature and historical fiction.
The Hours
by Michael Cunningham
The Hours by Michael Cunningham is a captivating and poignant novel that weaves together the lives of three women across different time periods. The story explores the lives of Virginia Woolf, a troubled housewife in 1920s England; Laura Brown, a discontented 1950s housewife in Los Angeles; and Clarissa Vaughan, a modern-day New Yorker preparing a party for her friend dying of AIDS. Through these interconnected narratives, the novel delves into themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning in life.
At its core, The Hours is a book about the complexities of human relationships and the struggles of self-acceptance and societal expectations. It beautifully captures the essence of the human experience, delving into themes of love, identity, and the pursuit of happiness. The novel also explores the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and the complexities of being gay in different time periods.
The Hours is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, and a must-read for anyone interested in a deeply moving story about the complexities of being gay.
Tipping the Velvet
by Sarah Waters
Tipping the Velvet by Sarah Waters is a captivating book about being gay that takes readers on a journey through the colorful and vibrant world of Victorian-era London. The story follows the protagonist, Nan King, as she discovers her sexuality and falls in love with a male impersonator named Kitty Butler. As their relationship blossoms, Nan is introduced to the exhilarating and sometimes dangerous world of music halls and drag performances.
However, as Nan navigates the complexities of her newfound identity and the challenges of being openly gay in a society that frowns upon it, she experiences heartbreak, betrayal, and ultimately, self-discovery. Tipping the Velvet is a beautifully written and evocative book on being gay that delves into themes of love, desire, and the struggle for acceptance.
Waters’ rich and immersive storytelling, combined with her vivid portrayal of historical London, makes Tipping the Velvet a compelling and thought-provoking read that will resonate with readers of all backgrounds.
Maurice
by E.M. Forster
Maurice is a groundbreaking novel by E.M. Forster, which was written in 1913 but not published until 1971 due to its controversial theme of homosexuality. The story follows Maurice Hall, a young man struggling to come to terms with his identity and place in society. As he navigates through the rigid social expectations of Edwardian England, Maurice explores his feelings and desires, ultimately finding love and acceptance in the face of prejudice and discrimination. The novel is a poignant exploration of the complexities of being gay during a time when such relationships were considered taboo. Maurice is a powerful and moving account of self-discovery, love, and the struggle for acceptance, making it a significant piece of LGBTQ+ literature. Forster’s keen insight and sensitive portrayal of the protagonist’s journey make this book a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today.
The Color of Water
by James McBride
The Color of Water by James McBride is a captivating memoir that tells the story of the author’s exploration of his identity and his mother’s past. Ruth McBride, a white Jewish woman, raised twelve African American children, and the book delves into her struggle as a single mother in the 1940s and 1950s. The narrative alternates between Ruth’s voice and James’s, creating a powerful and emotional portrait of their lives.
This poignant and thought-provoking memoir delves into themes of race, identity, and family, as James McBride grapples with the complexities of his biracial heritage. The book is a moving exploration of the author’s journey to understand his mother’s history and his own place in the world. It is a deeply personal and honest account that will resonate with readers as they follow the author’s quest for self-discovery and acceptance. The Color of Water is a must-read for anyone seeking a compelling and heartfelt story about the complexities of identity and family.
Orlando
by Virginia Woolf
Orlando by Virginia Woolf is a groundbreaking novel that follows the life and adventures of its titular character, from the Elizabethan era to the present day. The novel explores themes of gender, identity, time, and love, making it a rich and thought-provoking read. At its core, Orlando is a book about self-discovery and the fluidity of identity, as the protagonist undergoes a remarkable transformation from a man to a woman. This transformation allows the novel to delve into the complexities of gender and sexuality, making it a pioneering book on being gay and the experience of queer identity. Woolf’s lyrical prose and innovative narrative style make Orlando a captivating and timeless exploration of the human experience, and a must-read for anyone interested in literature that challenges traditional norms and constructs.
Final Thoughts on Best Being Gay Books
In conclusion, these 20 best books about Being Gay offer a diverse and compelling exploration of the LGBTQ+ experience. From memoirs to fiction, these books provide insight, empathy, and understanding for readers of all backgrounds. Whether you’re looking for personal stories, historical context, or simply great literature, these books have something to offer. So, dive into these titles and enrich your reading list with powerful narratives that celebrate the LGBTQ+ community.
Which book about Being Gay is best?
The best book on Being Gay can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
- Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston,
- Less by Andrew Sean Greer,
- The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller.
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Being Gay?
For those looking to learn about Being Gay, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
- Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston,
- Less by Andrew Sean Greer,
- The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller,
- Call Me By Your Name by André Aciman,
- Giovanni’s Room by James Baldwin,
- The Color Purple by Alice Walker,
- Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides,
- The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde,
- Stone Butch Blues by Leslie Feinberg,
- Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic by Alison Bechdel
These books offer a range of perspectives on Being Gay, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.
What are the best books about Being Gay?
The best books about Being Gay are:
- Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston,
- Less by Andrew Sean Greer,
- The Price of Salt by Patricia Highsmith,
- Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit by Jeanette Winterson,
- The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde,
- The Color Purple by Alice Walker.
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Being Gay are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Being Gay books of all time?
Choosing the best Being Gay books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include
- Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston,
- Less by Andrew Sean Greer,
- Giovanni’s Room by James Baldwin,
- The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde,
- and The Price of Salt by Patricia Highsmith.
Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Being Gay and continues to be influential today.