BOOKS

Until recently, it was rare for members of the LGBTQ+ community to see themselves authentically represented in media and literature. No matter how big or small the role, seeing themselves represented adequately in books is *so* important. When an author is able to understand and convey the experiences that members of the LGBTQ+ community face, it can help validate the feelings associated with these experiences IRL. Want to see this authentic representation in action? Because we've rounded up five books with sapphic characters that will *definitely* make you feel represented. 

Caution: Spoilers ahead!

You Know Me Well by Nina LaCour and David Levithan

A special friendship bond forms between a lesbian girl named Kate and a gay boy named Mark. While Kate is running from the girl she likes, Mark is crushing on a boy who does not reciprocate his feelings. This friendship explores the idea that a stranger might understand you more than even your *closest* friends do. Although the story takes place during Pride Week in San Francisco, it shows why you should celebrate your sexuality all year long. 

Amelia Westlake Was Never Here by Erin Gough
If you're a fan of enemies to lovers romance, this is the book for you. Two girls, Harriet Price and Will Everhart, could not be more different. The two never expected to fall for one another, especially not in the midst of fighting for justice after seeing their swim coach’s inappropriate actions at school. While their relationship is based on fighting injustice, their romantic chemistry is *just* as important to the story. 

Her Royal Highness by Rachel Hawkins

When Millie Quint gets the opportunity to attend an elite boarding school in Scotland, she gladly accepts. What she doesn't expect, though, is for her roommate, Flora, to be a princess. Although it doesn’t take much time for them to become enemies, it is evident that there is something *more* there, and sure enough the two enemies fall madly in love.

How to Make a Wish by Ashley Herring Blake
The only good things about of Grace Glasser’s life are her best friend, Luca, and her upcoming audition at a music school in New York City. When new girl Eva moves to town, however, everything changes. Suddenly Grace and Eva are spending all of their time together, bonding over their troubled family lives. By helping each other cope with some harsh realities, the two form a connection deeper than either of them ever imagined they would.

You Don’t Live Here by Robyn Schneider 
After the death of her mother, protagnoist Sasha Bloom moves in with her wealthy grandparents, which would be fine, except her grandparents don't really understand her...or her sexuality. When Sasha meets Lily Chen, her true feelings start to bubble to the surface, and Sasha is forced to choose between pleasing her grandparents and being herself.

What book have you been reading lately? Let us know on our bookstagram @glbestiebookclub.

by Kelly Schwint | 7/1/2021