By Maricopa County Library District
This month, Maricopa County Library District has handpicked a collection of books to celebrate Pride Month. Looking for more book recommendations? Check out MCLD’s Featured Collection at mcldaz.org or ask a librarian at your local library!
PICTURE BOOKS
Strong By Rob Kearney & Eric Rosswood, Illustrated by Nidhi Chanani
Rob dreams of becoming a champion strongman, but he feels like he can’t fit in with his bright leggings, unicorn T-shirts, and rainbow-dyed hair. Rob must find a way to step into his true self and be a champion.
The Rainbow Parade by Emily Neilson
One day in June, Mommy, Mama, and Emily take the train into the city to watch the Rainbow Parade. When Mama suggests they join the parade, Emily feels nervous. Standing on the sidewalk is one thing, but walking in the parade? Surely that takes something special.
ELEMENTARY (“JUVENILE”)
Small Town Pride by Phil Stamper
Jake is just starting to enjoy life as his school’s first openly gay kid. While his family and friends are accepting and supportive, the same can’t be said about everyone in their small town of Barton Springs, Ohio.
Different Kinds of Fruit by Kyle Lukoff
When Annabelle learns that her father shares something big – and surprising – in common with her new nonbinary friend, she begins to see herself, and her family, in a whole new light.
TEEN
Golden Boys by Phil Stamper
Gabriel, Reese, Sal, and Heath are best friends, bonded in their small rural town by their queerness, their good grades, and their big dreams. They are about to embark on the summer before their senior year of high school, where each is going on a new adventure and their friendship must evolve as they do.
Flip the Script by Lyla Lee
As an avid watcher of K-dramas, Hana knows all the tropes to avoid when she finally lands a starring role in a buzzy new drama. When showrunners bring on a new lead actress to challenge Hana’s role as main love interest—and worse, it’s someone Hana knows all too well—can Hana fight for her position on the show, while falling for her on-screen rival in real life?
ADULT
Yerba Buena by Nina LaCour
The morning Emilie and Sara first meet at Yerba Buena, their connection is immediate. But when Sara’s old life catches up to her, upending everything she thought she wanted just as Emilie has finally gained her own sense of purpose, they must decide if their love is more powerful than their pasts.
The Romantic Agenda by Claire Kann
Thirty, flirty, and asexual Joy is secretly in love with her best friend Malcolm, but she’s never been brave enough to say so. When he unexpectedly announces that he’s met the love of his life—and no, it’s not Joy—she’s heartbroken. Malcolm invites her on a weekend getaway, and Joy decides it’s her last chance to show him exactly what he’s overlooking.
