6 Must-Read Memoirs by LGBTQ+ Authors

June is finally here, signifying the beginning of Pride Month! Traditionally, Pride Month is marked with colorful celebrations, including parades and parties. However, equally important, if not more so, Pride is a time for self-reflection, identity affirmation, and educating oneself about past and present LGBTQ+ struggles, as well as acting toward a more inclusive future.

Unfortunately, due to the ongoing pandemic, many Pride celebrations have been canceled. Although these events are a cornerstone of June, there are still plenty of ways to acknowledge Pride without going out. Namely, listening to music, watching apt television and movies, and reading books produced by LGBTQ+ individuals are excellent ways to celebrate the month.

As a bibliophile and member of the LGBTQ+ community, I have been actively trying to cultivate a bookshelf befitting Pride. I love reading nonfiction books, so naturally I gravitated toward memoirs written by LGBTQ+ authors.

The memoirs recommended here are honest, raw, touching, and humorous accounts that cover not just the LGBTQ+ experience, but themes of race, class, growing up, seeking purpose, finding love, and discovering what it means to be human. These books are an excellent starting point if you are looking for a literary means to celebrate and recognize Pride Month and the LGBTQ+ community.