#patrick gale

February is LGBT History Month in the UK, so I thought I’d share some LGBT+ historical book recommendations with you all!

Lies We Tell Ourselves by Robin Talley

Set during the American civil rights movement, Sarah is one of the first black students at a newly-integrated high school. While dealing with the everyday struggles she faces, she is also struggling with her sexuality, particularly her feelings for another girl at the school whose father supports and perpetuates the town’s deep-set racism. As well as showing how these two girls slowly encourage each other to be better, more supportive people, the book also deals with what it’s like to struggle with your sexuality when you’re religious. It’s beautifully written, and the relationship between the two girls is wonderfully tender.

A Place Called Winter by Patrick Gale

Harry Cane, a family man in London in the early 20th Century, moves to Canada after rumours surface about his affair with another man. There, he falls in love, makes both friends and enemies, and meets others who are outcast. As well as putting you through the emotional wringer, this book also looks at the effect British colonisation had on native Canadians, and how the European gender binary was forced on indigenous cultures.

Two Boys Kissing by David Levithan

The action of this book takes place in modern day, as teenagers Harry and Craig try to break the Guinness World Record for the longest kiss. Their attempt, which draws local and media attention, is narrated by a Greek chorus of gay men who died from AIDs, who reflect on what has passed, and how much has changed for us to get to where we are today. It’s heartwarming, but also haunting and deeply sad.

The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

This book tells the story of Achilles’ life from the point of view of his lover, Patroclus. It’s a good reminder of how different cultures have had different attitudes towards same-sex relationships, as well as being stunningly written and a complete tearjerker. It’s one of my favourite books of all time, and I will recommend it to anyone who sits still long enough for me to do so.

The Absolutist by John Boyne

Set during the First World War, this book follows Tristan and Will, two soldiers fighting in the same regiment. Their tumultuous friendship - and relationship - goes alongside their changing attitudes to the war, to each other, and their morals. Make sure to have tissues nearby!

These are just a few great LGBT+ historical books. However, they are - with the exception of one - about gay men, and there’s a lot of other letters in that acronym for us to explore! Let me know of any of your favourite books that cover some LGBT+ history, especially if they include a wider diversity of characters.

Happy reading - and happy LGBT history month! 

Just Because...

If You Can, Try To Catch Man In An Orange Shirt, That Explores Aspects Of The Contradictions, Compromises, And Cruelty Of Gay Life In Great Britain In The Decades Before The Decriminalization Of Homosexuality in 1967.

Superb Performances From Julian Morris, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, And Vanessa Redgrave.

Angel Coulby in Man In An Orange Shirt.