June marks Pride Month, and in celebration, we are shining a spotlight on the latest works in fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and comics by 2SLGBTQ+ writers in Canada. These compelling reads are sure to enrich your reading list this year.
Billy Ray Belcourt’s novel, “A Minor Chorus,” follows an unnamed narrator who returns to his hometown, sparking conversations that bring to light modern queer and Indigenous experiences. Belcourt, a writer and academic from Driftpile Cree Nation in Alberta, previously won the 2018 Griffin Poetry Prize and is also known for his memoir “A History of My Brief Body.”
“Motherclown” by Harriet Alida Lye tells the story of Elise, who moves to Paris to pursue clowning after her father’s death while her mother, Catherine, seeks to rediscover her creativity. Lye, a Toronto-based author, has penned various works including “Let It Destroy You” and “The Honey Farm.”
H. Nigel Thomas’s “And Then Again Begin” delves into the lives of two married men in Montreal hiding their relationship. Thomas, a Vincentian Canadian author, has written numerous books across genres and resides in Montreal.
“Heated Rivalry” by Rachel Reid, the second book in the Game Changers series, portrays the evolving relationship between rival hockey players Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. Reid, a Nova Scotia author known for her queer hockey romances, received the 2026 Changemaker Award for the Hollywood Reporter’s Women in Entertainment Canada.
Anuja Varghese’s “A Kiss of Crimson Ash” narrates the tale of Taara, the new Queen of Abhaya, betrothed to Prince Garjan but facing obstacles in love and power. Varghese, an award-winning author, is recognized for her collection “Chrysalis.”
Loghan Paylor’s historical fiction novel, “The Cure for Drowning,” follows Kit McNair’s journey through love, war, and family turmoil. Paylor, an Ontario-born author based in B.C., won Canada Reads 2026 with this debut novel.
Ziyad Saadi’s “Three Parties” portrays Firas Dareer’s struggle as a queer Palestinian refugee aiming to come out during his birthday dinner. Saadi, a Vancouver writer, explores queer themes in his first novel.
Emily Austin’s “Is This A Cry For Help?” revolves around a librarian navigating personal and professional challenges. Austin, based in Ottawa, is known for her captivating storytelling in works like “Interesting Facts About Space.”
Brandi Bird’s poetry collection “Pitiful” explores themes of depression and eating disorders. Bird, an Indigiqueer writer, has received accolades for her impactful poetry, including a previous Indigenous Voices Award.
Mark Waddell’s “Colin Gets Promoted and Dooms the World” follows Colin’s decision that unleashes ancient evil. Waddell, a writer and teacher from Vancouver Island, crafts a gripping narrative in his debut novel.
Rebecca Papucaru’s debut novel, “As Good a Place as Any,” portrays Paulina’s journey from Chile to Toronto, balancing personal ambitions and societal expectations. Papucaru, a Montreal-based writer, is known for her award-winning poetry collection “The Panic Room.”
Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha’s “The Way Disabled People Love Each Other” explores themes of love and grief in the disabled community. Piepzna-Samarasinha, a prolific writer, offers a powerful collection of poems reflecting personal experiences.
Roza Nozari’s memoir, “All the Parts We Exile,” delves into the author’s quest for identity as a Canadian-born daughter of Iranian immigrants. Nozari, an esteemed writer and illustrator, captures the complexities of cultural identity and queerness in her work.
Jordan Abel’s “Dad Era” reflects on fatherhood and the collapse of societal norms. Abel, a queer Nisga’a writer, has received critical acclaim for his impactful poetry and novels.
Whitney French’s “Syncopation” narrates the story of two women navigating a world ravaged by natural disasters. French, a writer and publisher from Toronto, offers a unique perspective on love and survival in her debut novel.
Eddy Boudel Tan’s “The Tiger and the Cosmonaut” unravels a mysterious disappearance in a remote B.C. town. Tan, a Vancouver-based author, weaves together fantastical elements and cultural histories in this gripping novel.
Zena Sharman’s “Staying Power” is a collection of essays reflecting on queerness and chosen family dynamics. Sharman, a writer based in Duncan, B.C., sheds light on diverse experiences within the queer community.
Lee Lai’s graphic novel “Cannon” delves into themes of friendship and self-discovery. Lai, an Australian cartoonist based in Montreal, has received