June marks Pride Month, a time to celebrate and honor the LGBTQ+ community. In Canada, 2SLGBTQ+ writers have contributed significantly to various literary genres like fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and comics. Here are some noteworthy works by Canadian LGBTQ+ authors that you should consider adding to your reading list this year.
1. **”A Minor Chorus” by Billy Ray Belcourt**
– Billy Ray Belcourt, a writer and academic from Driftpile Cree Nation in Alberta, penned this novel. The story revolves around an unnamed narrator who returns to his hometown, exploring modern queer and Indigenous experiences through a series of conversations.
2. **”Motherclown” by Harriet Alida Lye**
– Harriet Alida Lye, a Toronto-based author, delves into the mother-daughter dynamic in her novel “Motherclown.” It follows Elise and her mother Catherine as they navigate their relationship amid personal revelations and emotional challenges.
3. **”And Then Again Begin” by H. Nigel Thomas**
– H. Nigel Thomas, a Vincentian Canadian author residing in Montreal, presents “And Then Again Begin.” This novel delves into the lives of two married men in Montreal, juxtaposing their public image with hidden personal struggles.
4. **”Heated Rivalry” by Rachel Reid**
– Rachel Reid, known for her queer hockey romances, explores the complex relationship between rival hockey players Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov in “Heated Rivalry.” The novel delves into their evolving romance amidst the competitive world of professional sports.
5. **”A Kiss of Crimson Ash” by Anuja Varghese**
– Anuja Varghese, acclaimed for her award-winning short story collection, weaves a tale of love, betrayal, and ancient legends in “A Kiss of Crimson Ash.” The novel follows Taara, the new Queen of Abhaya, as she navigates a web of royal intrigue and forbidden love.
These diverse and captivating works showcase the rich storytelling and unique perspectives of LGBTQ+ voices in Canadian literature. Explore these titles to immerse yourself in compelling narratives that highlight the depth and diversity of the LGBTQ+ experience.
