10+ Best Lgbt Books for 13-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Looking for the perfect read that resonates with the experiences and challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community? Our carefully curated list of LGBT books for 13-year-olds offers a range of stories that are both engaging and enlightening. Whether you're a young reader searching for characters who reflect your own journey or a parent seeking meaningful conversations through literature, this guide is your go-to resource. Keep reading to discover our diverse selection of LGBT books for 13-year-olds that are sure to captivate and inspire.

Fun Lgbt Books for 13-Year-Olds

• George by Alex Gino
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Contemporary
  • Synopsis: George is a fourth-grader who knows she's a girl, even though everyone else sees her as a boy. With the school play coming up, she wants to play the part of Charlotte from Charlotte's Web. The story follows her journey as she tries to make others see her as she truly is.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming and accessible introduction to transgender issues and identity for young readers. The story is told with sensitivity and simplicity, making it easy to understand and empathize with George.
  • Perfect for: Young readers looking for stories about identity and acceptance, and anyone who loves a story of courage and being true to oneself.

• Drama by Raina Telgemeier
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This graphic novel follows Callie, a middle schooler who loves theater. As she navigates the drama of putting on a school production, she also deals with crushes and friendships. The story includes LGBTQ+ characters in a supportive, casually inclusive environment.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines the excitement of middle school theater with the challenges and joys of growing up. The graphic novel format makes it a fun and engaging read.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring thespians and anyone who enjoys graphic novels and stories about school life and friendship.

• The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, LGBTQ+
  • Synopsis: Linus Baker, a by-the-book caseworker in the Department in Charge of Magical Youths, is given a classified assignment to observe six dangerous children in an orphanage, including a gnome, a sprite, and the Antichrist. As he learns about the children and their charismatic caretaker, his life changes in unexpected ways.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a charming story that combines elements of fantasy with a deep, heartfelt exploration of acceptance and family. The whimsical setting and lovable characters make it a delightful read.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy magical stories and themes of diversity and acceptance.

• Better Nate Than Ever by Tim Federle
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: Nate Foster, an unpopular 13-year-old, escapes his small town for New York City to audition for a Broadway musical. It's a hilarious and heartwarming journey that explores themes of identity and big dreams.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a funny and inspiring story about following your dreams, no matter how big. Nate's adventures in NYC will keep readers laughing and rooting for him all the way.
  • Perfect for: Young dreamers, aspiring performers, and anyone who loves a good laugh and an uplifting story.

• Lily and Dunkin by Donna Gephart
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Contemporary
  • Synopsis: Lily, a transgender girl, and Dunkin, a boy dealing with bipolar disorder, forge a friendship that helps them navigate the tough waters of middle school and personal challenges.
  • Why we recommend this book: It addresses important topics like mental health, transgender identity, and friendship with sensitivity and grace. The dual perspectives give a comprehensive look at the struggles and triumphs of both characters.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in realistic stories about friendship and overcoming personal challenges, and those looking for representation of mental health issues and transgender experiences.

Educational Lgbt Books for 13-Year-Olds

• Star-Crossed by Barbara Dee
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Romance
  • Synopsis: This charming novel follows Mattie, a middle schooler who develops a crush on Gemma, a girl cast as Juliet in their school play of Romeo and Juliet. Mattie begins to question her own identity and feelings, navigating the confusing waters of young love and friendship.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of LGBTQ+ themes, empathy, emotional intelligence
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gentle introduction to exploring LGBTQ+ themes and young love, with relatable characters and realistic middle school dynamics.
  • Perfect for: Young readers exploring their identity, fans of school plays, and anyone who enjoys sweet, coming-of-age stories.

• The Whispers by Greg Howard
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Eleven-year-old Riley believes in The Whispers, magical woodland creatures who grant wishes. He hopes they can help him solve the mystery of his missing mother and understand his feelings towards his friend, Dylan.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creative thinking, problem-solving, understanding of LGBTQ+ themes
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully blends fantasy with real-life issues, offering a captivating story that encourages understanding and acceptance of one's self and others.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love mystery and fantasy, and those dealing with their own personal quests for acceptance.

• Hurricane Child by Kacen Callender, illustrated by Kheryn Callender
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Magical Realism
  • Synopsis: Being born during a hurricane is unlucky, and twelve-year-old Caroline Murphy is dealing with more than her share of bad luck. She’s bullied at school, questions her identity, and is searching for her mother. Her new friend Kalinda helps her confront these challenges.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural awareness, resilience, self-discovery
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful story of friendship and self-acceptance, set against a richly depicted Caribbean background.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in diverse cultural settings and stories about friendship and finding oneself.

• The Best at It by Maulik Pancholy
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: Rahul Kapoor, a gay Indian American boy entering seventh grade, is advised by his beloved grandfather to find one thing he does well and become the best at it. This advice leads him on a humorous and poignant journey of self-discovery and acceptance.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural diversity, self-esteem, coping with anxiety
  • Why we recommend this book: It tackles issues like racism, homophobia, and anxiety with humor and grace, making it a meaningful read for young adolescents.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a blend of humor and heartfelt moments, and anyone struggling with identity and acceptance.

• Zenobia July by Lisa Bunker
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Zenobia July is a trans girl starting a new life with her aunts in Maine. When someone anonymously posts hateful memes on her school's website, she uses her hacking skills to track down the culprit, finding new friends and herself in the process.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Digital literacy, problem-solving, understanding of gender identity
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a modern tale that combines elements of mystery with a profound journey of self-discovery and acceptance.
  • Perfect for: Tech-savvy kids, mystery lovers, and readers exploring their gender identity or seeking stories about transgender protagonists.

Challenging Lgbt Books for 13-Year-Olds

• Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Romance, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: This novel follows two Mexican-American teenagers, Aristotle "Ari" Mendoza and Dante Quintana, as they navigate the complexities of identity, friendship, and family in the 1980s.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative delves deep into existential themes, complex family dynamics, and the protagonists' struggles with racial and sexual identity, which are presented in a nuanced and sophisticated manner.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's beautifully written with lyrical prose and offers profound insights into the emotional lives of teenagers coming to terms with who they are. It encourages empathy and understanding.
  • Perfect for: Teens interested in deep, philosophical questions about life and identity, and those who appreciate emotional depth in characters.

• Pet by Akwaeke Emezi
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Young Adult
  • Synopsis: In a society that claims all monsters are gone, Jam, a Black trans girl, meets Pet, a creature that emerges from one of her mother's paintings and a portal to hunt a monster lurking in her best friend Redemption's house.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel tackles themes of evil in society, the complexity of human nature, and the denial of truth in a supposedly utopian community, requiring readers to question moral absolutes.
  • Why we recommend this book: It challenges readers to see the world differently and to consider the importance of seeking out and confronting uncomfortable truths.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy speculative fiction with strong social commentary and those interested in themes of justice and truth.

• The Miseducation of Cameron Post by Emily M. Danforth
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: After her parents die in a car crash, Cameron Post explores her sexuality in her conservative Montana town during the early 1990s. When her aunt discovers Cameron with another girl, she is sent to a religious conversion camp.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores complex themes such as grief, identity, and religious intolerance through detailed narrative and emotional depth, demanding a mature understanding from readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book offers a critical look at the damaging effects of conversion therapy and provides a compelling narrative about self-discovery and resilience.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in historical perspectives on LGBTQ+ issues and those looking for a story about fighting for one's identity.

• Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up with Me by Mariko Tamaki, illustrated by Rosemary Valero-O'Connell
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Romance
  • Synopsis: This graphic novel follows Freddy Riley, a high school student in Berkeley, California, who can't seem to quit her toxic girlfriend, Laura Dean. The story explores the complexities of relationships and the importance of understanding one's worth.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative structure and the visual storytelling require readers to interpret both textual and visual cues to understand the depth of characters' emotions and relationships.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a visually stunning book with a compelling story about love, heartache, and self-respect. It encourages readers to consider healthy versus unhealthy relationships.
  • Perfect for: Teens navigating their first relationships and fans of graphic novels who appreciate detailed, expressive artwork.

• I Wish You All the Best by Mason Deaver
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Romance
  • Synopsis: After coming out as non-binary, Ben De Backer is thrown out of their home and forced to move in with their estranged sister. Amidst the struggle, Ben begins to find acceptance and love in unexpected places.
  • Why this book is challenging: It addresses complex issues of gender identity, mental health, and familial rejection with a depth that requires readers to engage empathetically and intellectually.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a heartfelt look at the highs and lows of coming to terms with one's gender identity, promoting understanding and acceptance.
  • Perfect for: Young readers exploring their identity or those looking to deepen their understanding of non-binary experiences.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Exploring LGBT books is a wonderful way to broaden your perspectives and understand diverse experiences. Here are some exercises specifically designed to help 13-year-olds develop good reading habits while diving into the rich world of LGBT literature.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of books or pages to read each week.
  • How it helps: Helps maintain a consistent reading pace and builds discipline.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home for reading.
  • How it helps: Minimizes distractions and enhances concentration.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s well-lit and comfortable, and add some personal touches like cushions or posters.

• Join or Start a Book Club
  • What it is: Gather a group to read and discuss LGBT books.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and understanding through discussion.
  • Tips: Meet regularly and ensure everyone gets a chance to suggest books.

• Use a Reading App
  • What it is: Utilize technology to track and organize your reading.
  • How it helps: Keeps your reading list organized and accessible.
  • Tips: Explore apps that offer features like reminders, notes, and social sharing.

• Read Aloud to Others
  • What it is: Share your reading by reading books aloud to friends or family.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and verbal skills.
  • Tips: Choose engaging passages and practice different voices to make it fun.

• Reflect on Your Reading
  • What it is: Take time to think about the themes and characters after finishing a book.
  • How it helps: Deepens understanding and personal connection to the stories.
  • Tips: Write down your reflections or discuss them with others.

By incorporating these exercises into your reading routine, you’ll not only enjoy your exploration of LGBT literature but also develop lifelong reading habits. Happy reading!