Vrijdag 15 mei 2026 — Editie #15

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Five Must-Read YA Books Set in New York City by LGBTQ+ Authors of Color

Five young adult books set in New York City feature LGBTQ+ characters of color in powerful stories. These books are celebrated for giving voice to queer youth from diverse backgrounds.

RainbowNews EditorialMay 15, 2026 — International3 min read
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These five young adult books are set in New York City. They all feature LGBTQ+ characters of color. The stories are powerful and important for young readers.

The first book is Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo. It tells the story of two sisters. They discover each other after a tragedy. The book deals with identity and family.

The second book is I'll Pretend You're Mine by Tashie Bhuiyan. It is a romantic story set in the city. The main character explores her feelings and identity. It is a warm and honest book.

The third book is Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender. Felix is a Black transgender teen. He is looking for love and acceptance. The book talks about gender identity and self-discovery. It is one of the most celebrated LGBTQ+ YA novels in recent years.

The fourth book is They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera. Two boys meet on the last day of their lives. One of them is Latino and queer. The story is emotional and deeply moving. Many young LGBTQ+ readers love this book.

The fifth book is Burn Down, Rise Up by Vincent Tirado. This is a horror story set in the Bronx. It features a queer Afro-Latina main character. The book mixes scary storytelling with real social issues. It is a fresh and exciting read.

All five books represent voices that are often not heard. They show LGBTQ+ young people of color in honest and complex ways. Reading these stories helps young people feel seen. It also helps other readers understand different lives and experiences.

These books are recommended by LGBTQ Reads. That is a platform that highlights queer literature. If you are looking for diverse and meaningful stories, start with this list.

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