To continue our monthly series of book lists, the Washington Talking Book & Braille Library would like to present the following titles in celebration of Gay and Lesbian Pride Month. Started in June 2000 as Gay and Lesbian Pride Month by President Bill Clinton, it was proclaimed in 2010 and 2011 to be Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month by President Barak Obama.
WTBBL is producing many new LGBTQ titles in both braille and digital audio so keep checking back for more titles.
Gay America by Linas Alsenas
This book gives a historical account of homosexuality in America and the gay rights movement. Ages 16 and up. Available as a downloadable digital book (DB 68234) from BARD: http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.nls/db.68234.
April Shadows by V.C. Andrews
When April’s perfect sister brings home her college roommate for a visit, April learns some new truths about herself. Ages 14 and up. Available in large print LP 21766.
Gay Seattle by Gary L. Atkins
Stories trace the evolution of Seattle's gay community in the 100 turbulent years since 1892, when the Washington State legislature began passing laws that essentially made homosexuality a crime. Digital book DBW 7644 and for download from WTBBL: http://www.wtbbl.org/login.aspx.
The Eagle Kite by Paula Fox
When Liam learns his dad has AIDS, he struggles with the realization that his dad may be gay. Ages 11 to 14. Available in Braille BR 10396.
Geography Club by Brent Hartinger
A group of covertly gay students form a club at their high school where they can talk openly about their lives and sexuality. Ages 14 and up. Available in audio DBW 8034 and download from WTBBL: http://www.wtbbl.org/login.aspx.
The Order of the Poison Oak by Brent Hartinger
After "coming out" at school, sixteen-year-old Russell decides to take a counselor job at a camp for burn victims to get away from the antagonism of his classmates, but finds ten-year-old boys have just as many problems as he does. Digital book DBW 8230.
Two Teenagers in Twenty: Writings By Gay and Lesbian Youth by Ann Heron
Forty-one essays by gay and lesbian youth ranging in age from twelve to twenty-four. The authors relate their experiences in dealing with their sexuality and the difficulties encountered in "coming out" to family and friends and finding a network of support. Some strong language and some descriptions of sex. For senior high and older readers. Available in braille BR 10983.
The Man without a Face by Isabelle Holland
Chuck befriends a mysterious man who teaches him there are many different ways to love. Ages 12 and up. Available in large print LP 00406.
What Happened to Lani Garver by Carol Plum-Ucci
Sixteen-year-old Claire struggles with increasing concerns about a recurrence of her leukemia and her mother's alcoholism until an enigmatic newcomer Lani--who is either a boy, a girl, or perhaps a "floating angel"--helps her get control of her life at the risk of his own. Strong language. For senior high readers. 2002. Digital book DB 56888. Also available as a downloadable digital book (DB 56888) from BARD: http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.nls/db.56888.
Looking for Jamie Bridger by Nancy Springer
Jamie has been raised by her grandparents without knowing who her real parents are. When she discovers her grandparents have a gay son they never talk about, she sets out to learn the truth. Ages 11-15. Available in Braille BR010354.
Seven Days at the Hot Corner by Terry Trueman
While playing in his senior-year baseball tournament, Scott Latimer is dismayed, then panicked, when his best friend Travis Adams confesses that he is gay. Some strong language. For senior high readers. Available as a downloadable digital book (DB 65143) from BARD: http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.nls/db.65143.
The House You Pass on the Way by Jacqueline Woodson
Staggerlee, the daughter of an interracial couple in an all Black town, has become adept at isolating herself from curious neighbors. Then her cousin Trout, comes to visit. Outspoken, sure of herself and beautiful, Trout is someone who will teach Staggerlee how to be the strong girl she longs to be. But is Trout really the girl Staggerlee thinks she is? For Grades 6-9. Available in large print LP 20769.
Sunday You Learn How to Box by Bil Wright
1960s. Louis, an African American teenager, recalls the destructive combination of elements that shaped his life, including his mother's ambitions to leave the housing projects, her drinking problem, his own homosexual inclinations, and his stepfather's so-called boxing lessons. Some violence and some strong language. For senior high readers. 2000. Digital book DB 60310. Also available as a downloadable digital book (DB 60310) from BARD: http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.nls/db.60310.