Teen books with LGBTQ+ characters

Caroline’s mother has gone and left an aching hole in her life. When new girl Kalinda arrives on the island, Caroline falls in love and sets out to find her mother. A rare and special, magical-realist story, which sometimes seems more like a dream.

Nothing ever happens in Littlehaven… at least, that is, until Izzy’s Dad comes out as trans. A gentle, timely and warm story about identity, friendship and standing up for what’s right.

Wilson skilfully combines an approachable and involving teenage story with a debate about true friendship, sexual identity and growing up.

This charming, funny romantic comedy about a girl who likes girls is packed with awkward moments, sticky situations and complex characters.

Juno Dawson’s no-nonsense guide to all things transgender and non-binary is an essential read for readers thinking about identity, gender politics and trans history.

Bea’s dad is gay and he’s marrying his boyfriend Jesse, who Bea loves. Bea lives half of her week with mum, half of the week with dad. When Sonia, Jesse’s daughter, comes to stay, Bea is really excited about the prospect of a new sister, but it all feels strange to Sonia. Will Bea get the sister she’s always wanted?

14 year old Frankie is having to grow up quickly to help her mum with her developing MS – and now that one of her bullies is starting to strike up an actual friendship with her, Frankie’s starting to think it might be something a little more. A delicate exploration of teen sexuality and the difficulties of growing up by the inimitable Jacqueline Wilson.

An utterly charming, slow-burn love story between two boys. This heart-warming graphic novel captures every moment of the joy and terror of having a crush on someone.

Explaining why art can be so powerful within social movements, and the different forms protest art can take, De Nichols introduces young readers to contemporary artists and young activists, with ideas for making your own protest art. A fascinating and brilliantly designed book. 

A real-life memoir about a young person coming to terms with her sexuality and her ​‘coming out’, as well as her first relationship, this is a positive and upbeat read about being comfortable in your own skin that will inspire any young person.

Since Aman’s father died, nothing has been the same. Then she befriends a new neighbour, who is lonely too. This warm, optimistic book carries a vital message about the importance of confronting and resisting homophobia in all parts of society. 

This delightful high-school story is set in a town in which being a gay teenager is no more fraught with difficulty than being straight. 

A fantastic book for classrooms and school libraries, This Book is Gay is a must-read for teachers and parents, as well as teens themselves.

David Piper has always been an outsider, labelled a freak by the school bully. Only his two best friends know the real truth – David wants to be a girl.