It’s a grand time to get your mitts on some queer literature, being pride month and all. But don’t let the confines of June stop you from exploring the decorated cohort of queer writers and thinkers – snag these wonderful reads any time of the year.

EITHER/OR BY ELIF BATUMAN The sequel to Elif Batuman’s prolific debut novel, The Idiot, Either/Or picks up Selin’s story pretty much where we left off – but fret not, this book can be adored as its own thing, no need to gobble the first before you begin (although we highly recommend you do!). While not explicitly a queer story, Elif’s writing about relationships – especially those between college student Selin and her male crushes – follows threads of exploration about what it is to come of age in a world where compulsory heterosexuality is a reality. Very Important Read!!

THE ADVERSARY BY RONNIE SCOTT If you’re thirsty for a queer tale set in Melbourne/Naarm’s Brunswick among housemates and the heat of summer, look no further. Ronnie Scott’s The Adversary is a rad read that will envelope you in the intricacies of the relationships it details – plus, it’s got a whole lot of exploration of friendships and the different ways they can function.

EXCITING TIMES BY NAOISE DOLAN Irish author Naoise Dolan is one cool cat. While these days she spends her time writing an awesome Substack and learning to speak a million and one different languages, 2020 saw the release of her debut novel, Exciting Times. Filled to the brim with sharp observations on relationships, the love triangle at the centre of the story is a perfect vehicle to explore class, gender and sexuality.

THE FIRST BAD MAN BY MIRANDA JULY No one’s take on the world is as curious as Miranda July’s. The First Bad Man is a book as bonkers as Miranda herself, and that’s why we love it (and her). Full of unconventional sexual fantasies and narrative twists that will have you on a rollercoaster through Miranda’s insane (complimentary) chaotic mind, you most certainly won’t guess what’s awaiting you next as you're flicking through this one.

LOADED BY CHRISTOS TSIOLKAS A seminal text of Melbournian queer literature, Christos Tsiolkas’ debut novel Loaded is a crazy-one-night story that follows second-generation Greek-Australian teenager Ari as he wanders the streets, city, clubs and communities of Melbourne in the ‘90s. If you’re at all familiar with the city the novel is set in, this fiery tale of queer expression also doubles as a literary “I’ve frequented that street before!” map. Plus, you can feast your eyes on Ana Kokkinos’ 1998 filmic adaption – Head On – if you’re still thirsty for more.

Keen for more rad book recommendations? Peruse these ripper reads by First Nations Australians or check out these actually awesome classics. Plus, sign up to our newsletter to never miss a rad read.