Queerness has long been intertwined with the concept of found families among the LGBTQ+ community. For many queer individuals, building these alternative families is a natural extension of their identity. Through this process, I’ve gained a broader understanding of what constitutes a family and how to cultivate meaningful connections with others. The quote from Ocean Vuong, which speaks to the transformative power of queerness, resonates deeply: “Being queer saved my life.
Often we see queerness as deprivation. But when I look at my life, I saw that queerness demanded an alternative innovation from me.” This sentiment is reflected in the books on this list, which offer innovative and alternative perspectives on queer found families. These stories remind us that being part of a non-traditional family is not a limitation, but rather an opportunity to create new worlds and connections.
The selected titles represent a diverse range of genres and approaches to exploring queer found families, from lighthearted and humorous to poignant and intense. While some books place the creation of found families at their core, others incorporate it as a natural aspect of the characters’ lives. Ultimately, these stories celebrate the beauty and complexity of queer found families, acknowledging that they deserve representation in literature just as much as any other type of family.
Cantoras by Carolina De Robertis (Historical Fiction)
In my opinion, there’s no denying the impact that this particular queer found family book has had on me. The story unfolds in 1970s and ’80s Uruguay, where five lesbian women create a sanctuary for themselves in a secluded beach town. Over time, their humble abode becomes the sole refuge where they can freely express themselves without fear of persecution under the repressive dictatorship.
As the characters navigate love, conflict, career changes, entrepreneurial ventures, and activism, this novel masterfully weaves together a poignant yet uplifting narrative that I’ve found nowhere else in my reading experiences.
The Witch King by H.E. Edgmon (YA Fantasy)
Wyatt, a powerful trans witch, is forced to abandon his peaceful life with a human family in the fae kingdom of Asalin after causing an unfortunate accident. He had grown accustomed to his new life, so it’s understandable that he’s hesitant when his former best friend and betrothed, Emyr, the fae prince, arrives seeking his return.
When Wyatt finally agrees to go back, he’s met with a complex web of fae politics, as well as the long-forgotten ghosts of his past, which had been left behind in Asalin.
American Hippo by Sarah Gailey (Alt History Western)
In an alternate American West, the Mississippi River delta has been overrun by wild hippos, imported for their meat. Amidst this chaos, Winslow Houndstooth, a seasoned hippo wrangler, is tasked with reclaiming the area from these feral creatures. To achieve this daunting feat, he assembles a motley crew of outlaws, criminals, and misfits.
This unlikely bunch embarks on a perilous journey through the swampy landscape of Louisiana, their intertwined destinies weaving together in a tale that’s equal parts thrilling and poignant.
Skye Falling by Mia McKenzie (Contemporary Fiction)
Skye’s life had been a series of escapes from difficulty, with flying being her go-to solution for dealing with challenges. For years, the 39-year-old travel company owner had relied on boarding planes to avoid tackling problems head-on. However, this pattern was disrupted when 12-year-old Vicky burst into her life, revealing that she was Skye’s daughter through egg donation.
As Skye got to know Vicky and fell for her aunt Faye, she began to understand that sometimes staying put could be the better option. This experience forced Skye to reevaluate what family means and discover that love can come in many forms.
Blood, Marriage, Wine & Glitter by S. Bear Bergman (Essays)
In ‘Found Family’ books, readers are treated to a rich tapestry of stories that transcend fiction. One such collection, penned by Bergman, delves into the triumphs and tribulations of queer found families. Through a series of poignant essays, Bergman sheds light on the intricacies of parenting, partnership dynamics, and the profound sense of belonging that comes with finally finding one’s tribe.
The author also explores how queer relationships evolve over time, the complexities of non-monogamy, and more. What sets this work apart is its unwavering commitment to centering the experiences of queer and trans individuals, emphasizing the sacred and essential nature of found family in their lives.
Light From Uncommon Stars by Ryka Aoki (Science Fiction)
In the realm of science fiction and fantasy, a unique blend of whimsy unfolds with the tale of Katrina, a transgender teenager who flees an abusive environment. Her journey takes an unexpected turn when she finds solace in an unlikely trio: a violin teacher bound to a Faustian pact and a family of extraterrestrial refugees running a donut shop.
As Katrina navigates this peculiar new world, she confronts transphobia, which imbues the narrative with a sense of urgency (though moments of levity do provide respite). Ultimately, this hopeful story celebrates the transformative power of music and the resilience of queer family bonds.
Rosaline Palmer Takes the Cake by Alexis Hal (Romance)
In the midst of searching for a new direction and a fresh start, Rosaline Palmer, a single mother, takes a bold step by joining a reality TV show inspired by The Great British Baking Show. As she navigates this unfamiliar terrain, she finds herself drawn to a soft-spoken electrician who challenges her long-held beliefs about what truly matters in life. This romantic comedy is infused with the humor and warmth of queer family dynamics, witty banter, and the messy journey of self-discovery.
Honey Girl by Morgan Rogers (Contemporary Fiction)
As the euphoria of celebrating her PhD in Vegas subsides, Grace’s impulsive decision to marry a virtual stranger takes center stage. The pressure cooker of expectation from her father, who had always envisioned a specific life trajectory for his daughter, finally boils over, prompting Grace to flee to New York to confront the reality of her new marriage.
Upon arrival, she meets Yuki, her wife, and they embark on an intimate journey of discovery, unraveling what they truly desire – not just from each other, but also from their respective families, both biological and chosen.
Spellhacker by M.K. England (YA Fantasy)
In this thrilling young adult novel, a fantasy kingdom is ruled by a single corporation that tightly controls magic, once freely available. The story centers around Diz and her three closest friends, who have built a lucrative business selling magic on the black market. Their latest job, meant to be their last, takes an unexpected turn when they stumble upon a new type of magic, sending them into a world of danger and uncertainty.
As they navigate this treacherous landscape, the bonds between these family members are pushed to the limit, forcing them to confront the true meaning of loyalty and love.
And Then the Gray Heaven by RE Katz (Contemporary Fiction)
As Jules embarks on a poignant cross-country journey to scatter their partner B’s ashes in places that held immense significance, the depth of their love and the queer family they built together is brought vividly to life. This novel tenderly explores themes of queer partnership, creative expression, grief, and the extraordinary ways in which queer individuals come together to support one another during times of heartbreak.
American Dreamer by Adriana Herrera (Romance)
The debut installment in a romance series spotlights a vibrant community of queer Afro Latinx and Caribbean men navigating love and relationships in New York City. The protagonist, Nesto, a talented Dominican American chef, leaves his mark on Ithaca by launching a food truck venture. There, he crosses paths with Jude, a white librarian whose ancestral roots run deep in the town.
While the romantic trajectory between Nesto and Jude is the driving force behind the narrative, it’s equally impossible to imagine this story unfolding without the rich tapestry of supporting characters that make up Nesto’s close-knit circle of friends and their interconnected families.
The Death of Vivek Oji by Akwaeke Emezi (Contemporary Fiction)
Emezi’s latest work defies categorization, weaving together multiple threads that resist being reduced to a single narrative. The story begins with the poignant passing of Vivek, and then spirals backward through his life, revealed through the perspectives of those who loved him most. This non-linear approach is characteristic of Emezi’s style, where seemingly disparate elements converge into something greater than the sum of its parts.
At its core, the book is an exploration of the boundless nature of queer and trans experiences, as well as the unyielding power of queer relationships to shape our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. If you’re seeking a new sense of community or a reminder that love knows no bounds, this novel is sure to captivate.
Once & Future by A.R. Capetta and Cory McCarthy (YA Science Fiction)
In this captivating tale, you’ll find yourself drawn into a world where space travel and intergalactic politics collide with mythological significance. Ari’s unexpected crash-landing on Old Earth sets off a chain of events that reveals her astonishing connection to King Arthur – and with it, the weighty responsibility to restore harmony to the galaxy.
But amidst this cosmic chaos, Ari finds solace in an unconventional queer found family who becomes her trusted allies in navigating the treacherous landscape ruled by a profit-driven corporation hell-bent on exploiting the galaxy’s resources. Prepare for a thrilling ride as Ari embarks on a quest to bring balance and unity to the cosmos.
Defekt by Nino Cipri (Fantasy)
Derek’s life was a seamless blend of work and existence at LitenVärld, an IKEA-like haven where fantasy and reality merged. His days were consumed by his role as a loyal employee until he received the unexpected invitation to take part in a special overnight inventory. This marked a turning point for Derek, as it introduced him to individuals who saw beyond the surface, revealing a world that was far more vibrant than he had ever imagined.
With each new encounter, the lines between reality and fantasy blurred, giving rise to an unforgettable adventure that effortlessly merged romance, found-family feels, and a dash of humor.
Weekend by Eaton Hamilton (Contemporary Fiction)
The tranquility of a remote Canadian lake sets the stage for a weekend getaway like no other. For two queer couples, Joe and Elliot, who’ve been together for nearly 20 years and have recently welcomed a new addition to their family, and Logan and Ajax, who are navigating the ups and downs of their one-year-old relationship, this secluded retreat provides the perfect opportunity to recharge and reevaluate their dynamics.
As they spend quality time with each other at their adjoining lake houses, the complexities of parenthood, gender identity, desire, aging, and queer relationships come into sharp focus, painting a rich tapestry of human experience.
Real Queer America by Samantha Allen (Nonfiction)
This perception that queer and trans individuals are solely confined to urban centers and liberal enclaves is a far cry from reality. In her heartwarming and inspiring book, Samantha Allen, a trans reporter, embarks on a journey to explore the lives of queer people living in rural areas and conservative cities across America.
Through intimate conversations, she delves into the realities of their daily lives, the families they’ve built, the work they’re passionate about, and what they cherish most about their communities. Blending memoir and journalism, this uplifting book is a vibrant tribute to the diverse forms that queer found family can take.
The Thirty Names of Night by Zeyn Joukhadar (Contemporary/Historical Fiction)
This captivating dual-timeline novel deftly explores the intricate intersection of biological family and found family. At its core is Nadir, a Syrian American trans man navigating contemporary New York while tending to his aging grandmother and grappling with the lingering grief of his mother’s passing.
The discovery of his ornithologist mother’s treasured journal, penned by a bird artist she adored, sets in motion a profound transformation, as Nadir’s understanding of his roots and sense of belonging are forever altered. With its vivid prose and fully fleshed-out characters that burst forth from the page, this novel masterfully weaves together themes of hidden queer and trans histories, immigrant experiences, artistry, and the liberating power of self-expression.
Sorrowland by Rivers Solomon (Speculative Fiction)
Vern’s journey begins at 15, when she flees the restrictive religious community where she was raised to forge a new path for herself and her young twins. However, the demons from her past refuse to let her escape their grasp. This haunting novel delves into the dark realities of American racism and the long-lasting effects of violence, forcing readers to confront the very definition of what it means to be a monster.
The story is an intense and sometimes unsettling ride, which makes the brief moments of peace and solace Vern finds with her new love interest and family all the more heartwarming.
The Love Study by Kris Ripper (Romance)
The moment I pick up a Kris Ripper novel, I know I’m in for a treat – every story is a celebration of queer found family. This latest romance is no exception. The premise revolves around Declan’s journey to overcome his commitment issues and re-enter the dating scene. He takes a leap of faith by agreeing to participate in an advice show hosted by YouTube personality Sidney, where he’ll embark on a series of dates and provide candid feedback.
Although the initial experiences are underwhelming, Declan finds himself inexplicably drawn to Sidney, and their connection lingers long after the cameras stop rolling.
Detransition, Baby by Torrey Peters (Contemporary Fiction)
While it’s true that many books about queer found families radiate warmth and affection, it’s equally important to acknowledge the complexities and challenges that can arise within these relationships. In her novel featuring three women – two trans and one cis – exploring the possibility of raising a child together, Peters tackles the messy realities of queer family dynamics head-on.
Despite my best efforts to compile an exhaustive list of diverse queer found family books, this initial offering of 20 titles is just the tip of the iceberg. As a starting point, consider diving into five romance series that prioritize found family or exploring the world of YA books featuring found families. Alternatively, peruse these must-reads for inspiration.
While not all of these recommendations focus exclusively on queer found families, some do – and they’re definitely worth checking out.