The LGBTQ-inclusive board, picture, and chapter books of 2025 have been joyous, affirming, sometimes hilarious, and often beautiful. Here are some that stand out for holiday giving (or any time of year).
The first picture book featuring someone with HIV or AIDS came out in 1989. It was followed by many other picture and middle grade books in the decades since, including these LGBTQ-inclusive titles. On World AIDS Day and beyond, may they offer insight into both history and a disease still with us.
Get ready for the Winter Olympics with this great new middle grade book about Winter Olympians and Paralympians, which includes queer athletes in and beyond a section on “Olympic Pride.” Read on for my review—and a sneak peek at its adorable depiction of Canadian hockey superstars and spouses Marie-Philip Poulin and Laura Stacey (and their dog Arlo).
A Massachusetts parent is using the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent Mahmoud decision as reason to sue his school district, claiming he should have been able to opt-out his kindergartener before the child’s class read two books that included same-sex parents. It’s the same district that saw a similar case brought in 2008.
Representation matters—so for the start of Transgender Awareness Week (and all year long), check out these terrific new picture and middle grade books from 2025 with trans protagonists. They include realistic fiction, biographies, and stories with a touch of magic—one of which is a finalist for the prestigious National Book Award!
Inform and inspire with a brand-new picture-book biography of a legendary gay fashion icon, plus nine other picture-book biographies published this year that showcase LGBTQ writers, performers, activists, and an astronaut.
Want new LGBTQ-inclusive middle grade books? We’ve got them! These titles include the latest from the award-winning Alex Gino, plus two drag-themed novels, sequels in two magical adventure series, and an inclusive non-fiction title about body literacy.
New LGBTQ-inclusive picture books just keep on coming! Here are some of my recent favorites that I haven’t already mentioned, including a new board book for the youngest tots.
Seven picture books published this year—six biographies and one historical snapshot—highlight an array of figures and moments from LGBTQ history. One expects such books to be informative—but these are also often fun, lyrical, and dazzlingly illustrated, ready to inspire young readers in multiple ways.
Get your family ready for Halloween with these recent books for all ages (including grown-ups) about spooky and not-so-spooky witches, vampires, werewolves, demons, and ghosts—and featuring LGBTQ people and families.
