Zondag 3 mei 2026 — Editie #3

RainbowNews

The global platform for LGBTQ+ news, analysis and stories. Independent and inclusive.

NederlandsUKGlobalDeutschFrançaisEspañolBrasilAsia-PacificLatinoamérica
Culture

10 Banned LGBTQ+ Books for Teens That Teach Strength and Identity

Ten important LGBTQ+ books for teens are being banned across schools and libraries. These books help young readers feel seen and build resilience.

RainbowNews EditorialApril 27, 2026 — International3 min read
···

Many LGBTQ+ books for young readers are being banned. Schools and libraries in several countries remove these books from their shelves. This is happening more and more often.

These books are important for LGBTQ+ youth. They help young people feel less alone. They show that it is okay to be yourself. Many teens find strength in these stories.

Here are ten banned LGBTQ+ books that matter for young readers.

The first book is "Gender Queer" by Maia Kobabe. It is a memoir about gender identity. It is one of the most banned books in the United States. The second book is "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" by Stephen Chbosky. It deals with sexuality and growing up. Many schools have tried to remove it.

The third book is "Two Boys Kissing" by David Levithan. It tells the story of gay teenagers. It shows love and courage. The fourth book is "I Am Jazz" by Jazz Jennings. It is about a transgender girl. It is written for younger readers too.

The fifth book is "Drama" by Raina Telgemeier. It is a graphic novel with LGBTQ+ characters. Many children enjoy it. The sixth book is "Lawn Boy" by Jonathan Evison. It follows a gay Latino man finding his identity.

The seventh book is "George" by Alex Gino. It is now called "Melissa". It is about a transgender girl in school. The eighth book is "And Tango Makes Three". It is based on a true story about two male penguins raising a chick.

The ninth book is "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" by Sherman Alexie. It touches on sexuality and identity. The tenth book is "Brave Face" by Shaun David Hutchinson. It talks about depression and gay identity in teens.

These books give LGBTQ+ youth a mirror. They see themselves in the stories. Banning these books sends a harmful message. Every young person deserves to read stories about people like them.

RE

RainbowNews Editorial

Editor

Part of the RainbowNews editorial team.

Meer van deze auteur →

More in Cultuur