June marks the celebration of Pride Month! In honor of this, we are showcasing the latest works of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and comics by Canadian 2SLGBTQ+ authors that you should consider adding to your reading list this year.
Billy Ray Belcourt’s novel, “A Minor Chorus,” follows an unnamed narrator who abandons his thesis to return to his hometown, engaging in conversations that shed light on modern queer and Indigenous experiences. The book was a finalist on Canada Reads 2026, championed by Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers.
Harriet Alida Lye’s “Motherclown” tells the story of Elise, who moves to Paris to pursue clowning after her father’s death, prompting her mother, Catherine, to follow her. Their strained relationship unfolds as they confront past regrets and secrets.
H. Nigel Thomas’ “And Then Again Begin” delves into the lives of two married men in Montreal who hide their relationship from their families in St. Vincent. The novel explores themes of trauma and identity.
Rachel Reid’s “Heated Rivalry” narrates the love story between rival professional hockey players Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. As their secret romance deepens, they must navigate their feelings amidst their passion for the game.
Anuja Varghese’s “A Kiss of Crimson Ash” weaves a tale of love and betrayal as Taara, the new Queen of Abhaya, is forced into an unwanted marriage that leads to an epic quest to prevent a power-hungry king from seizing control.
Loghan Paylor’s debut novel, “The Cure for Drowning,” follows Kit McNair’s journey from a small-town girl to a woman entangled in a love triangle with her brother and a new acquaintance, set against the backdrop of war.
Ziyad Saadi’s “Three Parties” captures the emotional journey of a queer Palestinian refugee, Firas Dareer, who plans a coming-out dinner filled with unexpected disruptions, challenging societal norms and perceptions.
Emily Austin’s “Is This A Cry For Help?” portrays a librarian’s struggle with personal loss and professional challenges, highlighting the power of community and resilience in the face of adversity.
Brandi Bird’s poetry collection, “Pitiful,” delves into themes of depression and body image, exploring the intersection of sexuality and mental health with poignant verses that challenge societal norms.
Mark Waddell’s “Colin Gets Promoted and Dooms the World” ventures into the consequences of a seemingly innocent favor that unleashes a dark force, testing the protagonist’s resolve to save the world.
Rebecca Papucaru’s “As Good a Place as Any” narrates Paulina’s journey from Chile to Toronto, where she grapples with personal ambitions and social expectations, ultimately facing a pivotal choice that could change her life forever.
Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha’s “The Way Disabled People Love Each Other” explores themes of grief, love, and resilience in the face of societal challenges, offering a poignant reflection on the power of community and healing.
Roza Nozari’s “All the Parts We Exile” delves into the author’s quest for identity as a queer Iranian Canadian, uncovering family secrets and embracing her true self amidst cultural complexities.
Jordan Abel’s “Dad Era” reflects on fatherhood and masculinity, offering a candid exploration of societal expectations and personal growth in a poignant lyrical memoir.
Whitney French’s “Syncopation” follows two women navigating a dystopian world, exploring themes of love, loss, and resilience against a backdrop of environmental chaos and societal upheaval.
Eddy Boudel Tan’s “The Tiger and the Cosmonaut” unravels the mysteries surrounding a family tragedy, blending elements of folklore and magic against the backdrop of a remote town.
Zena Sharman’s “Staying Power” delves into the author’s experiences with queerness and parenting, offering a collection of essays that celebrate resilience, community, and healing.
Lee Lai’s graphic novel, “Cannon,” delves into themes of identity and self-discovery, exploring the complexities of relationships and personal growth with a blend of humor and introspection.
Ahmad Saber’s “Ramin Abbas Has MAJOR Questions” tells the story of a Muslim teen grappling with his faith and sexuality, navigating societal expectations and personal desires in a poignant YA novel.
Alex Manley’s “Post-Man” offers a candid exploration of masculinity and identity, reflecting on the author’s journey of self-discovery and acceptance amidst societal challenges and personal growth.
These diverse and compelling works by Canadian 2SLGBTQ+ authors offer a rich tapestry of experiences, emotions, and perspectives that resonate with readers from all walks of life.