as was highly requested: (some!) young adult fantasy book recs by trans authors!
(i couldn’t include everything i’ve read; please don’t be too grumpy with me in the comments. i’m too sleepy to fight back and say “yes, don’t worry, i’ve read it” lol!!)
📚 books mentioned:
- These Vengeful Gods by Gabe Cole Novoa
- Wrath Becomes Her by Aden Polydoros
- Lucha of the Night Forest by Tehlor Kay Mejia
- The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas
- Somadina by Akwaeke Emezi
- Nimona by N.D. Stevenson
👗💄:
- shirt is from Jupiter Rising Shop (@jupiterrisingshop on IG)
- eyeshadow is In A Trance palette from Colourpop (and a couple other random eyeshadows)
- (also if you have a question about my makeup or something i’m wearing, most of it is curated in my shopmy!)
thank you to Get Underlined, Inkyard/HarperCollins, Fierce Reads, and Quill Tree Books for the gifted copies!
#fantasybooks #fantasybookrecs #transauthors #transbooks #nycinfluencer @Get Underlined @Inkyard Press @HarperCollins @Fierce Reads @ColourPop Cosmetics
As a huge fan of young adult fantasy, I’m always on the lookout for books that not only transport me to magical worlds but also offer diverse perspectives and voices. That's why I absolutely love discovering and recommending YA fantasy books by trans authors. Their unique insights and experiences bring a richness to storytelling that truly stands out, crafting characters and narratives that are both relatable and revolutionary. One author whose work I simply can't stop thinking about is Gabe Cole Novoa, especially their incredible book, *These Vengeful Gods*. If you're searching for stories that push boundaries and feature truly compelling characters, this one is a must-read. The protagonist is a disabled trans main character, and their journey is absolutely captivating. I was especially fascinated by how Novoa weaves in details about their godly powers over the body, exploring magical ways that they adjust their hormones and find pain relief—it’s both inventive and deeply resonant. Beyond that, the book has an adorable little squeaky cat (who doesn't love that?!) and features a powerful found family dynamic. Watching these characters bond together to fight back against their oppressive government is pure perfection. It's a story that stays with you long after you've turned the final page, highlighting themes of identity, resilience, and chosen family. But the magic doesn't stop there! There are so many other fantastic young adult fantasy books by trans authors that deserve a spot on your reading list. Take Aiden Thomas's *The Sunbearer Trials*, for example. It features a trans main character in a completely queer normative world, where godly lore is intrinsically linked to this inclusive society. It's refreshing to see a fantasy world where queerness is simply a given, allowing the story to focus on the thrilling adventure and character development without needing to explain or justify identity. Then there's Akwaeke Emezi's *Somadina*, a beautifully written coming-of-age story about twins, self-discovery, and forging community, all wrapped in prose that is just delicious to read. And for graphic novel lovers, N.D. Stevenson's Nimona is epic, funny, and full of heart, exploring identity and leaning into who you are with boldness and joy. Each of these books offers something unique, proving that trans authors are shaping the landscape of YA fantasy with their creativity and powerful storytelling. Exploring these diverse voices has honestly enriched my reading experience so much, and I highly recommend diving into them!
































































