June marks Pride Month, a time to celebrate and recognize the LGBTQ+ community. In honor of this month, we are spotlighting a selection of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and comics by 2SLGBTQ+ authors in Canada that you should consider adding to your reading list this year.
**”A Minor Chorus” by Billy Ray Belcourt**
“A Minor Chorus” is a novel by Billy Ray Belcourt that delves into the experiences of an unnamed narrator who returns to his hometown, engaging in conversations that shed light on modern queer and Indigenous realities. The novel was a finalist in the 2026 Canada Reads, championed by Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers.
Billy Ray Belcourt, a writer and academic from Driftpile Cree Nation in Alberta, is celebrated for his literary achievements, including winning the 2018 Griffin Poetry Prize for his collection “This Wound is a World.” Belcourt’s diverse works also include the memoir “A History of My Brief Body” and the short story collection “Coexistence.”
**”Motherclown” by Harriet Alida Lye**
“Motherclown” narrates the story of Elise and her mother Catherine, who embark on journeys of self-discovery in Paris. Harriet Alida Lye, a Toronto-based author, has penned various captivating works such as “Let It Destroy You” and “The Honey Farm,” showcasing her talent across different literary genres.
**”And Then Again Begin” by H. Nigel Thomas**
H. Nigel Thomas explores the complexities of secret lives in “And Then Again Begin,” focusing on two married men in Montreal. Thomas, a Vincentian Canadian author recognized for his contributions to fiction, poetry, and literary criticism, resides in Montreal and has received prestigious accolades like the Canada Council for the Arts Molson Prize.
**”Heated Rivalry” by Rachel Reid**
Rachel Reid’s “Heated Rivalry” portrays the romantic journey of professional hockey players Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. Reid, a prominent author from Nova Scotia, is renowned for her queer hockey romance novels, including the Game Changers series that inspired a popular TV adaptation.
**”A Kiss of Crimson Ash” by Anuja Varghese**
“A Kiss of Crimson Ash” narrates the gripping tale of Taara and Garjan intertwined with mythical elements. Anuja Varghese, an accomplished writer recognized for her award-winning short story collection “Chrysalis,” delivers a captivating narrative that blends fantasy and intrigue.
**”The Cure for Drowning” by Loghan Paylor**
“The Cure for Drowning” by Loghan Paylor is a poignant historical fiction novel delving into the lives of Kit McNair and her family. Paylor, an Ontario-born author, has garnered critical acclaim, with their debut novel being longlisted for the 2024 Giller Prize and winning the prestigious Canada Reads in 2026.
**”Three Parties” by Ziyad Saadi**
“Three Parties” follows Firas Dareer’s journey as a queer Palestinian refugee navigating personal revelations during a birthday dinner. Ziyad Saadi, a Vancouver writer, intricately weaves themes of identity and acceptance in his debut novel.
**”Is This A Cry For Help?” by Emily Austin**
Emily Austin’s “Is This A Cry For Help?” delves into a librarian’s experiences post-mental breakdown, offering a poignant exploration of intellectual freedom and the power of libraries. Austin, an Ottawa-based writer, brings a fresh perspective to her works, including “Gay Girl Prayers” and “Everyone In This Room Will Someday Be Dead.”
**”Pitiful” by Brandi Bird**
Brandi Bird’s poetry collection “Pitiful” delves into themes of depression and eating disorders, shedding light on societal challenges faced by marginalized communities. Bird, an Indigiqueer writer, has received accolades for her literary contributions, including the Indigenous Voices Award for her debut poetry collection “The All + Flesh.”
**”Colin Gets Promoted and Dooms the World” by Mark Waddell**
Mark Waddell’s debut novel “Colin Gets Promoted and Dooms the World” explores the consequences of a seemingly small favor leading to catastrophic events. Waddell, a writer and educator from Vancouver Island, delivers a gripping narrative that captivates readers with its blend of mystery and suspense.
**”As Good a Place as Any” by Rebecca Papucaru**
Rebecca Papucaru’s debut novel “As Good a Place as Any” offers a poignant portrayal of migration and self-discovery against the backdrop of historical turmoil. Papucaru, a Montreal-based writer, has received accolades for her poetry collection “The Panic Room” and novella “Yentas,” showcasing her talent in crafting compelling narratives.
**”The Way Disabled People Love Each Other” by Leah Lakshmi Piepzna