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LGBT booksHelping You Find the Best
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LGBT booksHelping You Find the Best
  • 10 Best LGBT Books in the Philippines 2024 1
  • 10 Best LGBT Books in the Philippines 2024 2
  • 10 Best LGBT Books in the Philippines 2024 3
  • 10 Best LGBT Books in the Philippines 2024 4
  • 10 Best LGBT Books in the Philippines 2024 5

10 Best LGBT Books in the Philippines 2024

LGBT-themed media have recently gained popularity, highlighted by the rise of critically acclaimed independent films and the warm reception of Boys Love (BL) series. If you want to explore other related media, immerse yourself in the colorful lives and stories of LGBT characters through books!


If you're wondering where to start, you've come to the right place! Here, we will help you choose the best book for you. We've also curated a list of the best LGBT books for you to check out. 

Last updated 10/20/2023

Quick List - Top LGBT Books

1

Alice Oseman

Heartstopper
Heartstopper

Captivating Graphic Novel Series With Endearing Characters

2

James Baldwin

Giovanni's Room
Giovanni's Room

Controversial Account of Love and Longing

3

Barbara Dee

Star-Crossed
Star-Crossed

Charming Story About Star-Crossed Lovers

4

Becky Albertalli

Simon vs. the Homo sapiens Agenda
Simon vs. the Homo sapiens Agenda

Feel-Good Book About Exploring One’s Identity

5

Benjamin Alire Sáenz

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe

Poetic Narrative of Self-Discovery

Editorial Team
Guide
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Editorial Team

Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.

Editorial Team's Profile
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Table of Contents

How to Choose an LGBT Book - Buying Guide

There are some things you have to consider first before finalizing what book you will read. To know more about these, continue reading.

1

Decide Between a Physical Copy or an Electronic Copy

First things first, choose between a physical copy or an electronic copy. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Weigh these and decide which one is best suited for your needs.

A Physical Copy Allows for Personalization

A Physical Copy Allows for Personalization

For some, nothing beats the musky smell of printed books to get you in the mood to read. Aside from this, they give the advantage of being personalized. For instance, you can write down some personal anecdotes. You can even highlight your favorite quotes and lines from the book. 


A physical copy can either be paperback or hardbound. Paperback books are handier and lighter. Price-wise, they are cheaper. However, they can easily get damaged. On the other hand, hardbound books are durable due to their thick covers and spines. They tend to last longer than paperbacks. However, they are more expensive. 


The only caveat of having the printed copy is that it can take up space. You need to allot some shelf space for proper storage. It can also be a hassle to bring them anywhere. Plus, it can be difficult to find a copy of the book in physical stores. They are also pricier than e-books.

An Electronic Copy Offers Convenience

An Electronic Copy Offers Convenience

Under the category of e-copies are audiobooks. This is ideal for those who prefer listening to reading the book. You can ward away the long hours of commute while listening to audiobooks. The reading experience can also be immersive especially since you can hear the emotions of the characters.


While electronic copies offer favorable benefits, they also have disadvantages. They can strain your eyes especially after exposure to your screen for a long time. They can also disrupt your sleeping cycle because of the blue lights that they emit. Lastly, going digital requires a stable power source and internet connection.

2

Select a Book According to Your Preferred Genre

You can narrow down your options by deciding on what genre you prefer. Listed below are some of your choices.

Romance Will Make You Feel Warm and Fuzzy

Romance Will Make You Feel Warm and Fuzzy

Romance is a very common theme in LGBT books. This highlights the love story of the characters in the book. If you want to vicariously experience the giddiness from falling in love, this is ideal for you.


Most LGBT Romance books focus on emphasizing the freedom to be who you are and love who you love. Experience the kilig with titles like Boy Meets Boy, Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda, and If I Was Your Girl.

Humor Books Will Make You Feel Better

Humor Books Will Make You Feel Better

We understand that it can be mentally exhausting to read a book at times. So, if you want something light, comedy is for you. This is perfect for those days when you feel overwhelmed and just need a good pick-me-up.


Dramatic storylines might not be everyone’s cup of tea. And if you’re one of them, you should include Shattered Glass, Almost Like Being in Love, Naked, and Me Talk Pretty One Day on your reading list.

Dramatic Books Will Help Relieve You

Dramatic Books Will Help Relieve You

In contrast to comedy books, dramatic books will overwhelm you with a lot of feels. They offer an avenue to release your emotions. If you need a good cry, go for dramatic books. 


If you feel like you’ve been bottling emotions for a while, reading drama books may offer relief. Books like Escape & Freedom, Love Waits, Before it Stains, and A Heart to Call Home will give you just that.

Coming of Age Books Will Inspire You

Coming of Age Books Will Inspire You

Another common genre in LGBT books is the coming of age genre. This tells the life of the character. Common themes are transition from one point in life to another. In LGBT books, you will encounter the characters finding and establishing their identities.


Engross yourself in the chronicles of how LGBT characters traverse life with titles like Will Grayson, Will Grayson, Maurice, Juliet Takes a Breath, and The Miseducation of Cameron Post. Their experiences might even end up resonating with you.

3

Check Out the Plot

Check Out the Plot

Before purchasing a book, you might want to read the book blurb first. Goodreads is one of the best sources for this. If you found the plot interesting or if you think you can relate to it, then go for it! Just make sure that the synopsis is spoiler-free; otherwise, it will rob you of your reading experience. 


At the same time, check out the number of pages. If you’re just starting to get yourself out of a reading slump, it’s best to go for a light read that you can finish within a few hours or days. However, if you'd like to go for a lengthy read, that's totally fine too!

4

Consider Book Reviews

Consider Book Reviews

Book reviews are one of the best ways to identify if the book is right for you. Actual copies usually have reviews on the cover or the first pages of the book. There are also sites you can check such as Goodreads, LibraryThing, and What Should I Read Next for reviews and recommendations. Usually, a book that has good reviews is worth your time. 


You can also research the author’s previous works, as well as the reviews on these. Highly-acclaimed authors are your best options for a good read. Of course, you can also ask your peers for recommendations. You might have similar tastes, after all. Also, talking about the book is one of the best ways to bond.

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best LGBT Books to Buy Online

The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
Details
Available Format
Genre
Page Count
1

Alice Oseman

Heartstopper

Alice Oseman Heartstopper 1

Captivating Graphic Novel Series With Endearing Characters

Paperback

Romance, Coming of Age

288

2

James Baldwin

Giovanni's Room

James Baldwin Giovanni's Room 1

Controversial Account of Love and Longing

eBook

Psychological Fiction

288

3

Barbara Dee

Star-Crossed

Barbara Dee Star-Crossed 1

Charming Story About Star-Crossed Lovers

Audiobook

Romance, Coming of Age

304

4

Becky Albertalli

Simon vs. the Homo sapiens Agenda

Becky Albertalli Simon vs. the Homo sapiens Agenda 1

Feel-Good Book About Exploring One’s Identity

Paperback, Audiobook, eBook

Romance, Coming of Age

336

5

Benjamin Alire Sáenz

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe

Benjamin Alire Sáenz Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe 1

Poetic Narrative of Self-Discovery

Paperback, Audiobook

Young Adult

529

6

Taylor Jenkins Reid

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

Taylor Jenkins Reid The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo 1

Compelling Story of a Cunning and Ambitious Actress

Paperback

Romance

400

7

Marisa Crane

I Keep My Exoskeletons to Myself: A Novel

Marisa Crane I Keep My Exoskeletons to Myself: A Novel 1

Poetic Exploration of Love and Grief Set in a Dystopian Society

Paperback, eBook, Audiobook

Dystopian, Science Fiction

352

8

André Aciman

Call Me By Your Name

André Aciman Call Me By Your Name 1

Tale of Summer Love in Italy

eBook

Romance

256

9

Priya Guns

Your Driver is Waiting

Priya Guns Your Driver is Waiting 1

Satirical Spinoff of the Classic Film Taxi Driver

eBook, Audiobook

Dark Comedy, Urban Fiction

320

10

Chinelo Okparanta

Under the Udala Trees

Chinelo Okparanta Under the Udala Trees 1

Poignant Tale of Forbidden Love

eBook, Audiobook

Fiction

349

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Alice Oseman
Heartstopper

Heartstopper 1
Source:aliceoseman.com
Reference price
₱637
Mid
Reference price
₱637
Mid

Captivating Graphic Novel Series With Endearing Characters

Set in a British high school, Heartstopper is a graphic novel series that explores themes of friendship, love, and self-discovery through the lives of Charlie and Nick. Charlie finds his world turned upside down when he befriends Nick. As their friendship deepens, it slowly evolves into something more: a heartwarming and tender romance that challenges societal norms.

Oseman's storytelling is both heartfelt and poignant, drawing readers into the lives of these relatable characters as they navigate the complexities of growing up and falling in love. Readers and critics alike have lauded the series for its ability to evoke laughter and tears, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a touching exploration of love and identity.
Available FormatPaperback
GenreRomance, Coming of Age
Page Count288
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No.2

James Baldwin
Giovanni's Room

Reference price
₱581.89
Mid
Reference price
₱581.89
Mid

Controversial Account of Love and Longing

This book tells the story of David, a young American in Paris, who is engaged to Hella. Complications arise when he started to notice his desire for Giovanni, an Italian bartender who awakened something in him. In the darkness of a hidden room, David is forced to deal with his true self.

Giovanni’s Room is the oldest book on the list. But don’t let this prevent you from reading this classic! It caught the attention of many readers for its unapologetic take on themes of life, love, and heartbreak. Baldwin was definitely ahead of his time because decades later, this remains an important book that resonates with most of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Available FormateBook
GenrePsychological Fiction
Page Count288
No.3

Barbara Dee
Star-Crossed

Star-Crossed 1
Source:goodreads.com
Reference price
₱1,035.83
High
Reference price
₱1,035.83
High

Charming Story About Star-Crossed Lovers

Star-Crossed is a story about middle school romance. It couldn’t get any cuter than this! It follows Mattie and how she deals with her feelings and identity, an affirming exploration of friendship and identity that will surely stay with you. It’s meant to empower the youth to be true to themselves, no matter how challenging it is.

Bisexuality is often overlooked in the literary world, much in children’s books. That is why this book is a must-read for all. Despite it being meant for kids, even adults can learn something from the characters. After all, the themes of identity and love are universal across all ages.

Available FormatAudiobook
GenreRomance, Coming of Age
Page Count304
No.4

Becky Albertalli
Simon vs. the Homo sapiens Agenda

Reference price
₱394
Low Mid

Feel-Good Book About Exploring One’s Identity

The titular character, Simon, is a sixteen-year-old who is trying to figure out who he is. Accompanying him through this journey is Blue, someone with whom he’s in constant communication. His world turned upside down when their correspondence got into the wrong hands, threatening to expose his identity.

Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda is your go-to book if you want something light. The themes of identity, love, and sexuality were told in a manner that will leave you with a smile on your face. Simon’s character is endearingly quirky, and you will end up caring for him deeply. Readers’ consensus shows that this novel is a fun read.

Available FormatPaperback, Audiobook, eBook
GenreRomance, Coming of Age
Page Count336
No.5

Benjamin Alire Sáenz
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe

Reference price
₱550
Mid

Poetic Narrative of Self-Discovery

This book tells the story of two teenagers, Aristotle and Dante, who spent the summer together in El Paso, Texas. Aristotle is guarded and is struggling to belong. Dante is emotional and open-hearted. This is a moving account of two young people and their time together that sprouted friendships and budded into something more.

Sáenz’s literary strength lies in his ability to tell the story of the characters in a touching manner, while at the same time, handling themes of self-discovery in an endearing manner. Thus, it is very easy to care about the characters and their stories that will tug at your heartstrings at the right moments. Despite this being a young adult book, adults will surely enjoy its magic.

Available FormatPaperback, Audiobook
GenreYoung Adult
Page Count529
No.6

Taylor Jenkins Reid
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

Reference price
₱655
High Mid

Compelling Story of a Cunning and Ambitious Actress

This novel delves into the captivating life of Evelyn Hugo, a legendary Hollywood actress. The story unfolds through the eyes of Monique, a young journalist, who is granted the opportunity to interview the reclusive and enigmatic Evelyn Hugo. As Evelyn recounts her seven marriages and tumultuous career, secrets are unveiled, and the complex tapestry of her life is laid bare.

Taylor Jenkins Reid's manner of writing is evocative and immersive, transporting readers to the glamour and intrigue of old Hollywood. Reid also shines in creating complex characters, particularly Evelyn Hugo, who is a multifaceted and unforgettable protagonist. This bestseller is a must-read for those who enjoy tales of love, ambition, and the hidden truths of fame. 
Available FormatPaperback
GenreRomance
Page Count400
No.7

Marisa Crane
I Keep My Exoskeletons to Myself: A Novel

I Keep My Exoskeletons to Myself: A Novel 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
₱337.48
Low Mid
Reference price
₱337.48
Low Mid

Poetic Exploration of Love and Grief Set in a Dystopian Society

For fans of dystopian novels, check this out! It tells the story of Kris dealing with the grief of her wife's death from childbirth. Set in a dystopian society where the government installed surveillance cameras in every home, Kris tries to grapple with the harsh realities while raising her daughter alone.

Despite the seemingly dark theme, readers found the book interesting, especially with the inclusion of wry pop quizzes and word searches. On top of that, Melissa Broder's literary prowess lies in her ability to write well-rounded characters that will get you hooked. This is best for those who like a thought-provoking and candid read.
Available FormatPaperback, eBook, Audiobook
GenreDystopian, Science Fiction
Page Count352
No.8

André Aciman
Call Me By Your Name

Reference price
₱225.56
Low

Tale of Summer Love in Italy

This is the story of how Elio met Oliver. The latter is a 24-year-old American student who stays with the former’s family in Italy to do some research about his manuscript. Over the course of summer, romance blossomed between the two.

This is not your typical boy meets boy story. Aciman tells the story in a poetic manner that you will be so engrossed in the story unfolding before you. You may find it hard to detach from the characters. You may even find yourself just staring at nowhere, letting the emotions overwhelm you after finishing the book.

Available FormateBook
GenreRomance
Page Count256
No.9

Priya Guns
Your Driver is Waiting

Your Driver is Waiting 1
Source:goodreads.com
Reference price
₱671.19
High Mid
Reference price
₱671.19
High Mid

Satirical Spinoff of the Classic Film Taxi Driver

If you're in the mood for a satirical read, consider 'Your Driver Is Waiting.' It tells the story of Damani, a queer woman trying to make ends meet through a ride-hailing app. Damani's dull life changes for the better when she meets Jolene. That was until Jolene did something unforgivable.

The character of Damani may remind you of a certain character in the iconic 1970s movie 'Taxi Driver.' That's because Priya Guns wrote the book as a gender-flipped spinoff of the film. Readers enjoy the perspective of a queer woman through Guns' descriptive writing as she navigates city life amidst civil unrest.
Available FormateBook, Audiobook
GenreDark Comedy, Urban Fiction
Page Count320
No.10

Chinelo Okparanta
Under the Udala Trees

Under the Udala Trees 1
Source:goodreads.com
Reference price
₱549.79
Mid
Reference price
₱549.79
Mid

Poignant Tale of Forbidden Love

Set against the backdrop of Nigeria's civil war in the late 1960s, the book tells the story of Ijeoma, a young girl who finds herself torn between tradition and forbidden love. Ijeoma's life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Amina, a fellow refugee, and the two form a deep bond that turns into a secret romance.

Readers enjoy the novel's rich cultural insights and its unflinching portrayal of the LGBTQ+ experience in a conservative Nigerian society. It's a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant work that challenges societal norms while celebrating the universal themes of love and acceptance.
Available FormateBook, Audiobook
GenreFiction
Page Count349

How We hose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations

Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more

Top 5 LGBT Books

No. 1: Alice OsemanHeartstopper

No. 2: James BaldwinGiovanni's Room

No. 3: Barbara DeeStar-Crossed

No. 4: Becky AlbertalliSimon vs. the Homo sapiens Agenda

No. 5: Benjamin Alire SáenzAristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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