Welcome to today’s SexPlus book review! We’ve picked three fantastic and relatively light reads that explore themes of identity, love, and discovery all while highlighting the 2SLGBTQIA+ experience.
Heart Stopper by Alice Oseman
The Heartstopper series by Alice Oseman, is a 5 volume graphic novel series with a 6th and final volume being written at the moment. This series follows 15/16 year old Nick and Charlie as they become friends and navigate their way through high school, relationships and friendships. Nick and Charlie’s friend group involves many dynamic and fleshed out characters, to the point where readers will surely find one that they relate to. While sexual health and education isn’t discussed in detail until book 5, conversations about being ready for physical relationships are had throughout the series. When sex is eventually discussed, the conversation is LGBTQ+ friendly, with an emphasis on not being pressured and how to be safe. The earlier books within the series contain just as meaningful themes of discovering yourself and exploring your sexuality (specifically books 1 to 3). Book 4 especially resonates with readers as mental health issues become the forefront of the plot, as the boys and their friends learn about how to best support loved ones with mental health difficulties and that sometimes love simply isn’t enough to help someone. This book contains mental health representation (specifically eating disorders, anxiety and depression), lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and non binary representation; while all these topics are handled realistically and with care, readers should be aware that despite the wholesomeness of the series, the subject matters can be difficult to read about. For fans of book to tv adaptations, a Netflix series spanning 3 seasons covering books 1 to 5 has been created under the same name, with the authors involvement. Just as the graphic novels, the tv show handles all subject matters with care as it stays true to the source material. Overall this graphic novel series is good for LGBTQ+ teens, any adults that are wanting to heal their inner child or anyone wanting accurate portrayals of growing up, teenhood and first relationships.
Sunburn by Chloe Michelle Howarth
“Sunburn is a beautiful coming-of-age story set in a small town in Ireland in the 90s. The book follows a young girl who feels out of place in her community. Throughout the story, Lucy explores her identity, sexuality, and the societal expectations placed upon her. This book perfectly portrays feelings of first love, secret relationships, and the emotional depth of adolescence. An emotional rollercoaster, this sapphic novel is a must-read!”
Red White and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
“Red, White and Royal Blue is a great coming-of-age story with a fun mix of romance, humour and heart. Casey McQuiston tells the enemies-to-lovers story of Alex Claremont-Diaz, the First Son of the U.S, and British royalty Prince Henry of Wales. Beyond the romance, this book is a sweet story about hope, identity, and the courage to live authentically (even in the public eye!). The side characters have their own developments and the political backdrop adds new depth to the rom-com style. This was my first queer romance read and although I wasn’t sure what to expect, I’m so glad that I took a chance on this one!”
Whether you’re seeking comfort, adventure, or just fun, these books are sure to be memorable. Stay tuned for more recommendations this SexPlus Week or check out our other book reviews here