More Teen Perspectives on LGBTQ Lit

(image via cynr)

“I read queer lit because like all art, literature is a reflection of the consciousness of a culture. I enjoy queer art (including literature) because I can relate to it. Also, when I was younger and just coming out, it was comforting to see the LGBT community reflected in books. I knew that I wasn't alone.” – Kai, 17.

“What I like about LGBTQ books is that I can relate to how the main character is feeling.” – Maggie, 13.

“Many of them are homonormative-- portraying upper-middle class white characters (usually male). As a queer person of color, I don't often find much to relate to in YA LGBT lit as it currently exists. Also, many of the books in the genre are about coming out. Because most of the books are centered around homonormative characters, there usually isn't much diversity in the coming out story. The books become predictable. At present, I'm more interested in books that integrate LGBTQ characters without focusing solely on that particular aspect of the character's identity ("tokenizing," if you will). Most LGBTQ YA fiction does not take on this pursuit. Or if a book does, the LGBT characters are stereotypes, "sassy gay friend," or the "butch lesbian bro."” – Gabrielle, 18.


Gabrielle raises some good points! What are your criticisms of the LGBTQ genre? What's your perspective?

Teen Perspectives on Science Fiction

(image via O Palsson)

“I love it when good authors get to create who new people and civilizations. I love the politics of sci/fi-fantasy and how the genre allows the others to make social commentaries without being too obvious.” – Liam, 17

“Fantasy and Sci-Fi is my ultimate favs since I hate being realistic and imagination outside of this world is just awesome!” – Elrize, 16.

What do you like about the sci-fi genre? What's your perspective?

Teen Perspectives on LGBTQ Lit

(image via FredoAlvarez)

“[I read it] because I find it interesting. I look for queer literature specifically because if I just pick a book at random it seems likely that it will just be about straight/cis people etc.” – Imogen, 16

“They are fun to read because you can actually relate to the character(s).” – Madison, 14.

“It helps me to read about relationships I can relate to, and it helped me come to terms with my sexuality.” – Rosie, 17.


What do you like about LGBTQ lit? What's your perspective?

Teen Perspectives on Fantasy

(image via Michelle Hyacinth)

“It helps to escape to a world where anything is possible. Every once in a while at least.” – Marcel, 19.

“There is infinite possibility within the fantasy genre.” – Gabrielle, 18.

What do you love about the fantasy genre? What's your perspective?