June marks Pride Month, and in celebration, we shine the spotlight on the freshest fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and comics by 2SLGBTQ+ writers in Canada that you should include in your reading list this year.
Billy Ray Belcourt’s novel, “A Minor Chorus,” captivates readers with its tale of an unnamed narrator who veers off his academic path to return to his hometown, engaging in dialogues that spotlight modern queer and Indigenous experiences. The book was a finalist on Canada Reads 2026, championed by Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers.
H. Nigel Thomas’ “And Then Again Begin,” part of The No Safeguards Quartet, delves into the lives of two married men in Montreal, concealing their relationship from their families in St. Vincent. As they grapple with unresolved trauma and hidden identities, their seemingly idyllic lives are put to the test.
“Motherclown” by Harriet Alida Lye follows Elise and her mother Catherine as they navigate personal revelations and strained relationships in Paris, blending themes of creativity and regret.
Rachel Reid’s “Heated Rivalry” explores the secret romance between rival hockey players, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, as they face a choice between their passion for the game and their growing affection for each other.
Anuja Varghese’s “A Kiss of Crimson Ash” weaves a gripping tale of royal betrothals, forbidden love, and legendary quests, immersing readers in the world of Taara, Prince Garjan, and a thief named Roland.
Loghan Paylor’s “The Cure for Drowning” narrates the intertwined lives of Kit, Rebekah, and Landon amidst a backdrop of war, love, and family turmoil, earning acclaim and accolades for its poignant storytelling.
Ziyad Saadi’s “Three Parties” paints a vivid picture of a queer Palestinian refugee’s struggle to come out during a pivotal birthday celebration, navigating familial expectations and personal revelations.
Emily Austin’s “Is This A Cry For Help?” unfolds the story of a librarian grappling with personal loss and professional challenges, advocating for intellectual freedom and the power of libraries.
Brandi Bird’s poetry collection, “Pitiful,” delves into themes of depression and body image, shedding light on the intersections of sexuality and mental health.
Mark Waddell’s debut novel, “Colin Gets Promoted and Dooms the World,” delves into the consequences of a seemingly small favor that unleashes ancient forces, intertwining ambition and otherworldly threats.
Rebecca Papucaru’s “As Good a Place as Any” follows Paulina’s journey from Chile to Toronto, grappling with ambition, activism, and personal identity amidst societal upheavals.
Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha’s “The Way Disabled People Love Each Other” explores themes of grief, love, and community in the context of disability and marginalized identities.
Roza Nozari’s “All The Parts We Exile” chronicles her journey as a Canadian-born daughter of Iranian immigrants, navigating cultural heritage, identity, and queer experiences.
Jordan Abel’s “Dad Era” reflects on fatherhood, queer identity, and societal expectations, offering a unique perspective on parenthood and societal norms.
Whitney French’s “Syncopation” immerses readers in a dystopian world where two young women navigate love and loss amidst environmental chaos, exploring themes of resilience and connection.
Eddy Boudel Tan’s “The Tiger and the Cosmonaut” delves into family secrets, personal trauma, and the search for truth, set against a backdrop of mystery and familial ties.
Zena Sharman’s “Staying Power” delves into queer experiences, chosen family, and healing from trauma, offering a poignant reflection on resilience and community.
Lee Lai’s “Cannon” explores themes of identity, friendship, and self-discovery, capturing the complexities of relationships and personal growth.
Kristopher Wells’ “Cruising the Downtown” sheds light on Edmonton’s queer history, celebrating the resilience and contributions of the 2SLGBTQ+ community in shaping the city’s cultural landscape.
Nalo Hopkinson’s “Blackheart Man” immerses readers in a world of magic and mythology, blending African and Caribbean-inspired narratives with themes of empowerment and self-discovery.
Betty Baxter’s “Outspoken” recounts her journey as an Olympic athlete and LGBTQ+ advocate, challenging societal norms and advocating for inclusivity in sports.
Tea Gerbeza’s “How I Bend Into More” offers a poetic exploration of disability and self-acceptance, weaving personal experiences with themes of ableism and resilience.
Michael V. Smith’s “Soundtrack” captures the essence of growing up gay amidst the AIDS epidemic, using music and personal anecdotes to navigate societal shifts and personal growth.
Ahmad Saber’s “R