For years, Andrew Holleran’s seminal work, “Dancer from the Dance,” has been a staple in the queer literary canon. This year, the LGBTQ+ community is blessed with new offerings from both established authors and fresh voices, offering a rich tapestry of stories that explore the complexities of queer life.
At the top of the list is “The Boy with a Bird in His Chest” by Emme Lund, a heartwarming coming-of-age story about a boy and his avian companion. Lund’s debut is a bold and intimate journey that will linger long after the final page.
Andrew Holleran returns with “The Kingdom of Sand,” a poignant novel set against the backdrop of the AIDS crisis and Florida’s cruising culture. Holleran’s wit and keen observations of gay life are as sharp as ever, making “The Kingdom of Sand” a must-read for fans of the author and newcomers alike.
R. Eric Thomas’ “The Kings of B’more” is a hilarious and uplifting celebration of platonic queer intimacy, reminding us to hold our friends just as close as we do our lovers. Meanwhile, James Kirchick’s “Secret City: The Hidden History of Gay Washington” is a meticulously researched examination of the role of LGBTQ+ people in American history, proving that “queer history” is simply “history.”
Akwaeke Emezi’s “You Make a Fool of Death with Your Beauty” is a steamy, daring exploration of love and sexuality, while Susie Dumond’s “Queerly Beloved” is a touching portrait of a lesbian marriage and the challenges that come with navigating a new family structure.