Secondary school reading list to be more LGBT inclusive
Education
Secondary school reading list designed to make your classroom or library LGBT+ inclusive. The books we’ve picked feature diverse stories and perspectives, including faith and LGBT+ people of colour.
Creating an inclusive classroom and school library is crucial for supporting the development and wellbeing of all pupils. By including LGBT-themed books in your curriculum, you provide representation and foster a deeper understanding of diverse identities. Research shows that positive messaging about LGBT+ people is linked to pupils having better wellbeing and increased pupil confidence in their future careers.
Secondary school reading list
Here’s a selection of top picks for secondary schools, curated by Just Like Us, to make your classroom more LGBT-inclusive.
1. Top Picks for KS3 (Key Stage 3)
These books offer a diverse range of stories perfect for engaging younger secondary school students:
- “The Henna Wars” by Adiba Jaigirdar: This contemporary romance follows a queer Muslim girl navigating first love and cultural expectations. It’s a heartfelt story that addresses both identity and family dynamics.
- “Heartstopper” by Alice Oseman: A graphic novel series about two boys falling in love while tackling issues like friendship, self-discovery, and acceptance. Its relatable and inclusive portrayal makes it a must-have for KS3.
- “Jamie” by L.D. Lapinski: This contemporary novel explores the journey of a non-binary character as they navigate friendships and self-identity. It’s a powerful, relatable read for students exploring gender identity.
2. Top Picks for KS4 (Key Stage 4)
Here are the top picks for KS4:
- “Loveless” by Heartstopper creator Alice Oseman: This contemporary novel explores the experiences of an asexual protagonist, providing an essential perspective on love, friendship, and self-acceptance.
- “The Trans Self-Care Workbook” by Theo Lorenz: An invaluable tool for trans and non-binary students, this workbook provides exercises and strategies for self-care, making it a great addition to support wellbeing.
- “Queer Up” by Alexis Caught: A non-fiction guide covering LGBTQ+ love, life, and mental health. This book provides support and advice that can be empowering for KS4 students exploring their identities.
3. Top Picks for KS5 (Key Stage 5)
At this stage, students benefit from more complex and mature themes. These picks are ideal for upper secondary students:
- “Fun Home” by Alison Bechdel: A semi-autobiographical graphic novel that dives into the author’s relationship with her father and her journey of self-discovery. It’s a deeply personal and impactful read for students at KS5.
- “Orlando” by Virginia Woolf: This classic is an exploration of gender identity and fluidity, making it a timeless addition to an inclusive classroom library.
- “Gender Euphoria” by Laura Kate Dale: A non-fiction anthology featuring positive stories from trans and non-binary individuals, including young people of colour, celebrating the joy of living authentically.
Why make your secondary school reading list inclusive?
LGBT-inclusive books not only provide representation for students but also promote empathy and understanding among their peers. By exploring diverse narratives, pupils learn to appreciate and respect identities different from their own. Integrating these top picks into your curriculum will create a safe and welcoming environment for all students, supporting both academic and personal growth.
By selecting these top recommendations, you ensure your classroom literature reflects the diversity of world around them, making every young person feel seen and valued.
How to download our secondary school reading list
Teachers can sign up to download our reading list and all of of other free resources, too.