Recommended Books

Thank You for Calling the Lesbian Line is a moving exploration of lesbian history, community and connection. Drawing from archives, interviews and personal reflection, Elizabeth Lovatt uncovers the emotional significance of the UK’s Lesbian Line as a lifeline for support, identity and belonging. A powerful read for those interested in queer history, chosen family and LGBTQ+ community care. Click here for more

Unapologetic is a bold call to action from Black queer feminist organiser Charlene A. Carruthers. Grounded in intersectionality and movement-building, the book explores race, gender, sexuality and collective liberation, offering a framework for radical organising rooted in healing and community accountability. Essential reading for those committed to anti-racism, queer justice and transformative social change. Click here for more

A Place of Our Own is a powerful exploration of gay bars as vital spaces of refuge, resistance and community. June Thomas traces the history of LGBTQ+ social spaces, examining how bars have fostered solidarity, identity and political organising in the face of homophobia and exclusion. A compelling read for anyone interested in queer history, chosen family and the cultural importance of LGBTQ+ safe spaces. Click here for more

This Arab Is Queer is a powerful anthology amplifying LGBTQ+ voices from across the Arab world and diaspora. Through personal essays, the book explores identity, faith, migration, family, colonialism and resistance, challenging stereotypes about Arab and Muslim queer lives. Essential reading for those interested in intersectionality, Queer Arab experiences and decolonising LGBTQ+ narratives. Click here for more

Homosexuality in Islam offers a groundbreaking theological and historical analysis of same-sex relationships and gender diversity within Islamic tradition. Scott Siraj al-Haqq Kugle challenges dominant interpretations, drawing on Qur’anic scholarship, ethics and lived experience to explore LGBTQ+ inclusion, faith and spirituality. An essential read for Queer Muslims, allies and anyone interested in sexuality, religion and affirming theology. Click here for more

Rainbow History Class explores LGBTQ+ history through culture, politics and activism. This accessible guide celebrates queer resilience while educating readers on global movements for equality. Click here for more

Queer Body Power explores body liberation, queer identity and resisting beauty norms. Essie Dennis examines how LGBTQ+ people can reclaim embodiment, strength and self-worth beyond societal expectations. Click here for more

The Book of Queer Prophets explores the intersection of sexuality, faith and spirituality. Through diverse voices, it reclaims religious narratives and affirms LGBTQ+ identities within spiritual contexts. Click here for more

Queer Heroes of Myth and Legend reclaims LGBTQ+ figures from global mythology and folklore. Through vibrant storytelling and illustration, this book celebrates queer history, identity and representation across cultures. Click here for more

Transgender 101 provides an accessible introduction to gender identity, terminology and trans experiences. Nicholas M. Teich offers clear, educational guidance for allies, professionals and anyone seeking to understand tran sgender inclusion. Click here for more

In Bi , Julia Shaw explores the science, history and culture of bisexuality. Challenging myths and stigma, this book reframes bisexual identity as fluid and expansive, contributing to affirming conversations around sexual diversity and LGBTQ+ inclusion. Click here for more

Ace explores asexuality, attraction and the assumptions society makes about sex and relationships. Angela Chen examines identity, intimacy and compulsory sexuality, offering an inclusive framework for understanding asexual spectrum experiences within LGBTQ+ mental health conversations.

Gender Games is Juno Dawson’s powerful exploration of gender identity, transition and what it means to live authentically in a gendered world. Blending memoir and cultural commentary, the book offers insight into trans experiences, feminism and LGBTQ+ inclusion, making it essential reading for anyone interested in gender diversity and affirming therapy perspectives. Click here for more

The Velvet Rage explores how growing up in a heteronormative society shapes the emotional lives of gay men. Alan Downs examines shame, perfectionism, addiction, relationship struggles and the pressure to succeed, offering insight into how internalised stigma impacts LGBTQ+ mental health. Grounded in psychological practice, this influential book provides a powerful framework for healing, authenticity and self-acceptance within queer affirmative therapy. Click here for more

Straight Jacket explores the lasting psychological impact of homophobia on gay men, even in supposedly “post-gay” societies. Drawing on personal insight and research, Matthew Todd examines shame, anxiety, body image, addiction and trauma within the LGBTQ+ community, offering a powerful and compassionate guide to healing and self-acceptance. An essential read for anyone interested in queer mental health, internalised homophobia and LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy. Click here for m