Summertime! A time to dream of adventures, heroes, magic, and saving the world – all ingredients found in a good book.
“Trans kids lives, not only matter, but their lives and stories are magical.” – Aiden Thomas
In this list, you will discover stories that feature trans and nonbinary characters who champion loyalty, self-worth, kindness, friendship and, especially, the power of community. These entertaining titles affirm the experience of queer and trans readers.
For an extensive list of titles featuring trans and queer heroes check out We Need Diverse BooksThey have launched MAGICAL STORIES FOR EVERYONE, a program offering trans and nonbinary communities Magic Care Packages containing a diverse magical book from their curated list, messages of hope from authors, and swag.
Consider supporting their efforts. Link: https://diversebooks.networkforgood.com/projects/251105-magical-stories-are-for-everyone
A World Worth Saving by Kyle Lukoff, Penguin Random House, 2025.
A., with the help of a golem and a band of queer friends, is chosen to fight demons. The Save Our Sons and Daughters believe trans kids are going through a craze and resort to ‘alternative treatments’ to get their children ‘back’. As A. uncovers the larger motives behind the increasing anti-trans actions, he is joined with spirits from Jewish Mythology. A gripping adventure full of wisdom and surprises.
Ice Apprentices by Jacob North, Simon and Schuster, 2025.
Oswin Fields wants to prove he belongs in Tundra, the only stable place in the harsh world of ice and snow. He is transgender, a stray, disliked by his fellow students at the Magic school, resented for using up scarce resources, and he’s got asthma. Overcoming these obstacles, Oswin is driven to battle the monsters threatening the community’s survival.
Splinter & Ash by Marieke Nijkamp, Harper Collins, 2025.
What do you get when a disabled princess teams up with a gender-nonconforming squire? A page-turning quest to save the kingdom. The entertainment factor of hidden tunnels and unexpected secrets is non-stop, while the themes of bravery and loyalty will stick with readers.
Tales From Beyond the Rainbow collected and Adapted by Pete Jordi Wood, Penguin 2025.
Ten LGBTQ+ tales as old as time span ten world cultures are told with sensitivity, knowledge, humor and love. These stories full of princes and princesses, sorcerers and soldiers, all feature positive portrayals of queer characters and delve into themes of transformation, identity and hope. Each story features artwork created by an artist whose heritage matches the country of their origin. A gorgeous, accessible book that encourages readers to seek out forgotten stories to retell and share.
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