Although censors continue to attack, publishers are putting out a richly diverse bounty of LGBTQ+ books that model inclusivity, ground and inspire young queer readers, and embrace allies. In the face of ongoing hatred and hostility, they proudly celebrate resilience.

Readers seeking humor will appreciate the following titles.

The Princess and the Grilled Cheese Sandwich by Deya Muniz (Little, Brown, May 9): an adorably punny graphic novel filled with bright, irresistible illustrations celebrating young queer love—and dairy products.

Gay Club! by Simon James Green (Scholastic, June 6): a hilariously over-the-top account of a British school’s complicated, drama-filled, high-stakes search for their next LGBTQ+ Society president.

Darkhearts by James L. Sutter (Wednesday Books, June 6): a funny, banter-filled story populated with engaging characters that centers two former band mates who fall in love following an estrangement.

Genre fiction is a perennial favorite for its strong storytelling; teens will enjoy getting lost in these absorbing reads.

If I See You Again Tomorrow by Robbie Couch (Simon & Schuster, April 18): a sweet romance about a teen trying to break free from a time loop and seeking the cute new boy at school.

Transmogrify!: 14 Fantastical Tales of Trans Magic edited by g. haron davis (HarperTeen, May 16): a magical anthology highlighting a diverse range of trans contributors that blends fantasy with real-world concerns and represents many different life experiences.

All the Dead Lie Down by Kyrie McCauley (Katherine Tegen/HarperCollins, May 16): an immersive and atmospheric gothic romance that features a forbidding house, mysterious secrets, and a series of unnerving events.

The Dos and Donuts of Love by Adiba Jaigirdar (Feiwel & Friends, June 6): a charming, nuanced, and mouthwatering romance between rival teen bakers in Dublin—with hearts and baking competition victory at stake.

The King Is Dead by Benjamin Dean (Little, Brown, July 18): a timely thriller about a newly crowned young Black British monarch who is reckoning with racism, the closet—and sabotage.

Whether you’re a keen athlete or not, these sports stories that explore camaraderie and competition are sure to please.

I Like Me Better by Robby Weber (Inkyard Press, May 2): an engaging love story in which a star soccer player gets in trouble but discovers a bright side to mandatory community service.

You Don’t Have a Shot by Racquel Marie (Feiwel & Friends, May 9): a compelling coming-of-age story as growth in self-awareness and love unfolds on the soccer pitch when two rival girls must work together.

Time Out by Sean Hayes and Todd Milliner with Carlyn Greenwald (Simon & Schuster, May 30): an uplifting story about a young basketball player who comes out in a spectacular way and encounters both homophobia and unconditional acceptance, co-authored by Will & Grace star Hayes.

Knowledge of history, connection to elders, and awareness of wider communities can help young people who are feeling unmoored; these books help readers see beyond their own immediate circles.

Only This Beautiful Moment by Abdi Nazemian (Balzer + Bray/HarperCollins, May 9): an unforgettable intergenerational story following an Iranian family in Tehran and Los Angeles that explores sexuality and more through a cross-cultural lens.

From Here by Luma Mufleh (Nancy Paulsen Books, May 16): an inspiring, heartfelt memoir by a gay, Muslim, Arab immigrant, the founder of a nonprofit supporting young refugees, who shares her remarkable story.

If You Still Recognize Me by Cynthia So (HarperTeen, May 23): a celebratory romance with queer teens on a mission to help one girl’s grandmother reunite with her long-lost lesbian lover.

Pedro & Daniel by Federico Erebia, illustrated by Julie Kwon (Levine Querido, June 6): a deeply moving fictional work following two gay brothers, one of whom dies of AIDS, inspired by the author’s life. (Read our interview with the author.)

Laura Simeon is a young readers’ editor.