Currently in the teen writing world, there is a push to see books featuring more diverse characters, themes and narratives. We Need Diverse Books is a grassroots organization dedicated to addressing the lack of books featuring characters with a variety of backgrounds. Think everything from race to income level to family dynamics. According to their mission statement, "We Need Diverse Books is committed to the ideal that embracing diversity will lead to acceptance, empathy, and ultimately equality."
Here you can explore a sampling of some great books featuring transgender and intersex teens, groups that are often underrepresented in teen fiction.
Gabe's birth name is Elizabeth, and his parents think he's crazy. Now a radio DJ, Gabe is just getting to know his new self. Follow Gabe's journey to self-acceptance with Beautiful Music for Ugly Children.
Angela's whole life has led to this moment, the moment he becomes Grady. Parrotfish follows his coming out story, complete with unlikely friends and a first love.
A natural disaster has destroyed most of what Penelope holds dear. How will Pen and the group of unusual friends she accumulates on the way survive in this destroyed world? Find out in Love in the Time of Global Warming.
How do you cope when your mother is nuts, you're tortured at school and no one seems to understand how to treat you? In Alex as Well, Alex is (literally) constantly arguing with herself about how to make friends, be happy and what hurdles she'll have to overcome to find happiness.
Interested in more? Check out this list of 15 books for teens featuring transgender or intersex characters and themes.
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