In this episode, I’m joined by Jason Blitman, host of the Gays Reading podcast, to spotlight stunning queer books that go far beyond your usual Pride Month roundups. Jason shares four queer literary fiction recommendations that are lyrical, emotionally resonant, and incredibly diverse, plus five must-read memoirs and essay collections written by LGBTQIA+ voices. Whether you’re looking for gothic slow burns, poetic introspection, or laugh-out-loud memoirs, this list has something for you.

📚 Books Recommended in This Episode

Queer Literary Fiction

• Martyr by Kaveh Akbar
• In Tongues by Thomas Grattan
• The Safe Keep by Yael Van der Wouden
• When the Harvest Comes by Denne Michel Norris

Queer Memoirs & Essays

• The Dry Season by Melissa Febos
• Walk Like a Girl by Prabang Gurung
• This Is Your Mother by Erica J. Simpson
• Congratulations, The Best Is Over by R. Eric Thomas
• Here for It by R. Eric Thomas

⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 – Intro and meet Jason Blitman

01:15 – Jason’s reading journey & Gays Reading podcast origins

02:00 – Queer literary fiction picks

06:00 – Transition to memoir & nonfiction recommendations

06:30 – Real stories and identity through memoir

10:00 – Where to find Gays Reading podcast and follow Jason Biltman

🔗 Links & Resources

• Listen to the Gays Reading podcast: gaysreading.com
• Follow Jason on Instagram: @gaysreading
• Sign up for our newsletter for weekly book recs, library tips, and hot book tea: whattoreadnextblog.com/newsletter