Books About Lgbtq+ Identity

The Best Lgbtq+ Identity Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about lgbtq+ identity? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Lgbtq+ Identity

The Deepest Breath
Sale price
$759
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2019

The Deepest Breath

By Meg Grehan

A girl who needs answers to everything meets the one feeling she can't explain.

192 pages· 14,072 words· Est. 2 hour read
4.3 Goodreads · 1,867 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Eleven-year-old Stevie loves knowing things: about the ocean and what lives in it, the stars, how phones work. Knowing makes her feel safe and in control, and with her mom's help she is learning to manage her anxiety. But there is one thing she can't figure out and isn't ready to talk about: the fizzy feeling she gets when she looks at her friend Chloe. A novel in verse about anxiety, identity and connection.
Heartstopper, Volume 2
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$1398
Chapter Book · Ages 13–17 · 2019

Heartstopper, Volume 2

By Alice Oseman · Book #2 in the Heartstopper series

A kiss changes everything for two best friends, leaving them questioning love and friendship.

320 pages· 5,334 words· Est. 40 min read
4.5 Goodreads · 588,306 ratings
$14.99Save 7%
Paperback
Summary: Nick and Charlie's friendship is tested after a spontaneous kiss leaves them both reeling. Charlie fears he's ruined everything, while Nick grapples with newfound feelings and confusion. As they navigate this emotional upheaval, Nick begins to see his world differently, uncovering truths about his friends, family, and himself. Can their bond survive this unexpected twist, or will it transform into something deeper? Discover the surprising ways love can change everything in this heartfelt journey.
I'll Give You the Sun
Sale price
$1248
Chapter Book · Ages 14–+ · 2014

I'll Give You the Sun

By Jandy Nelson

Twins torn apart by secrets must reunite to uncover their shared past and reshape their future.

Michael L. Printz Award (2015)Stonewall Book Award – Children's & Young Adult Literature Honor (2015)
400 pages· 107,048 words· Est. 10 hour read
4.2 Goodreads · 363,784 ratings
$12.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Jude and her twin brother, once inseparable, now barely speak. As Jude navigates new relationships and a mysterious mentor, she uncovers secrets that could mend their fractured bond. Meanwhile, Noah's past holds the key to their shared story. Can they piece together their lives and find their way back to each other? This tale of love, loss, and redemption explores the powerful ties of family and the courage it takes to face the truth. Dive into a world where every moment is a chance to rewrite destiny.
The First to Die at the End
Sale price
$1899
Chapter Book · Ages 13–+ · 2022

The First to Die at the End

By Adam Silvera · They Both Die at the End series

Two strangers face a life-changing day when one receives a call predicting their death.

550 pages· 105,433 words· Est. 10 hour read
4.0 Goodreads · 130,440 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: On the eve of Death-Cast's launch, Orion, burdened by a heart condition, and Valentino, seeking a fresh start, meet in Times Square. As the first End Day calls are made, one receives the ominous message, altering their paths forever. Bound by uncertainty, they choose to spend their final hours together, forging a connection that defies fate. Will their day end in heartbreak, or will they find meaning in the moments they share? Discover a tale of love, destiny, and the profound impact of fleeting encounters.
Squad
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$1398
Chapter Book · Ages 14–+ · 2021

Squad

By Maggie Tokuda-Hall, Lisa Sterle (Illustrator)

A new girl joins the popular clique and learns their secret: they hunt at night.

224 pages· 7,675 words· Est. 57 min read
3.8 Goodreads · 15,351 ratings
$14.99Save 7%
Paperback
Summary: When Becca moves to a wealthy Silicon Valley suburb, she is amazed to be welcomed by the most popular girls at school. Then she learns their secret: they are werewolves who hunt boys who prey on girls. Becca joins the pack, but as the hunts turn deadly she must decide how far she will go to belong.
Jo: An Adaptation of Little Women (Sort Of)
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$1248
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2020

Jo: An Adaptation of Little Women (Sort Of)

By Kathleen Gros · Book #1 in the Jo series

Jo navigates identity and friendship while balancing family challenges and unexpected feelings.

272 pages· 10,637 words· Est. 2 hour read
3.7 Goodreads · 2,052 ratings
$12.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Thirteen-year-old Jo March embarks on a journey of self-discovery as she joins the school newspaper, aiming to become a journalist. With her father deployed and her mother working overtime, Jo and her sisters face a new reality at home. Meanwhile, Jo's friendship with Laurie, the new neighbor, becomes complicated when he confesses his feelings. Jo, however, is grappling with her own emotions, possibly for her friend Freddie. As Jo confronts these challenges, she must uncover what it truly means to understand herself. Will Jo find the courage to embrace her true identity?
Cold
Sale price
$1797
Chapter Book · Ages 12–17 · 2022

Cold

By Mariko Tamaki

A ghost seeks answers. A girl seeks truth. What really happened to Todd?

230 pages· 40,358 words· Est. 4 hour read
3.5 Goodreads · 2,564 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Todd Mayer is dead, his ghost lingering over the snow-covered park where his body was found. As detectives probe his murder, Georgia, an outcast like Todd, becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth. Why does no one at Albright Academy remember Todd, and why does Georgia feel she's seen him before? As Todd relives his final choices, Georgia digs deeper, unraveling a web of secrets and lies. In a world where even ghosts have secrets, can Georgia find the truth behind Todd's death, or will she uncover more than she bargained for?
First Crush
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$1398
Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2026

First Crush

By Cassandra Calin · Book #2 in the New Girl series

Lia navigates crushes and friendships, unaware of a secret admirer. Can she handle the chaos?

272 pages· 11,657 words· Est. 1.5 hour read
4.4 Goodreads · 2,482 ratings
$14.99Save 7%
Paperback
Summary: Lia's life seems perfect—great friends, improving French, and a crush who might like her back. But while she's focused on Julien, she misses someone else's growing affection. As emotions run high, Lia's relationships with friends, family, and herself face unexpected challenges. Will she see what's right in front of her before it's too late?
Laverne Cox
Sale price
$1498
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2022

Laverne Cox

By Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, Olivia Daisy Coles (Illustrator) · Little People, BIG DREAMS series

A trans pioneer finds her true self on stage, inspiring others to live authentically.

32 pages· 531 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud
4.2 Goodreads · 179 ratings
$15.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Laverne Cox always felt different, yearning to express her true self. Despite societal constraints, her passion for dance and acting led her to New York City, where she broke barriers as the first transgender woman of color to lead a TV series and earn an Emmy nomination. This inspiring tale of resilience and authenticity encourages young readers to embrace their identities and pursue their dreams. Discover Laverne's journey through vibrant illustrations and insightful facts, and be inspired to change the world with your own unique story.
Rebel Robin
Sale price
$1139
Chapter Book · Ages 14–18 · 2021

Rebel Robin

By A. R. Capetta · Book #4 in the Stranger Things series

Robin plans an escape from Hawkins to find her true self.

368 pages· 68,672 words· Est. 6.5 hour read
4.0 Goodreads · 5,704 ratings
$11.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: In Hawkins, Indiana, Robin feels trapped by high school norms and her hidden identity. As her friends focus on futures she can't relate to, Robin dreams of escaping to Europe. But with no money or support, can she break free and embrace who she truly is? Follow her journey in this Stranger Things prequel, where self-acceptance becomes the ultimate adventure.
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