Celebrating Trans Stories: Beyond the Readathon
With the Trans Rights Readathon coming to a close, I wanted to take a moment to highlight something important. And that is that reading trans stories shouldn’t be limited to a single week or event. It’s a great starting point, but the goal is to carry that intention with us all year long, continuing to uplift trans voices, support diverse authors, and expand the stories we engage with.
Books have always been a powerful way to build empathy, understanding, and connection. Reading trans stories, across genres, age ranges, and identities, is one small but meaningful way to show up.
Here are a few trans-inclusive books I’ve read recently, along with what I thought:
The Prospects by KT Hoffman
This is a heartfelt, electric romance set in the world of minor league baseball. I loved the inclusion of real teams and the baseball commentary, it added a fun layer of realism. The representation is fantastic and genuinely meaningful. That said, I did find myself a little bored at times. It might just be that baseball romance isn’t totally my thing, but I still think this is worth picking up for the characters and rep alone.
Second Chances in New Port Stephen by TJ Alexander
This is a book I think about often. It was such a nice, easy read. It flows really well and is just one of those stories you can settle into comfortably. If you’re looking for something low stress, this is a great pick.
Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas
I listened to the audiobook and absolutely adored it. While you can obviously read it anytime of year, it was the perfect October read, with just the right mix of thriller, horror, and humor to keep things balanced and engaging. The characters really shine, and the story stays with you.
Hammajang Luck by Makana Yamamoto
This book is such a fun, chaotic ride in the best way. Between the heist vibes, the messy relationship dynamics, and the unique sci-fi setting, I was hooked. I also really loved and appreciated the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC representation. This is 100% one to check out if you want something high-energy and different.
On My TBR
A Lady for a Duke by Alexis Hall
This one immediately caught my attention. It follows Viola Carroll, who, after being presumed dead at Waterloo, finally gets to live as herself, but at the cost of everything she once had. Years later, she reconnects with Justin de Vere, the Duke of Gracewood, who has been deeply affected by her loss.
Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender
Felix Love wants a love story, but isn’t sure he’ll ever get one. As a Black, queer, transgender teen, he’s navigating identity, self worth, and what it means to be deserving of love. When he becomes the target of transphobic harassment, things spiral into a messy, emotional, and deeply personal journey.
Final Thoughts
The Trans Rights Readathon is such a fun event and a really good reminder to read diverse, but it shouldn’t be the only time we’re picking up these kinds of stories. So if you picked up even one trans-authored or trans-centered book this week, or next, don’t stop there. Keep it going. Work them into your regular reading, recommend them to your friends, and talk about them.
Because reading diversely shouldn’t just be a moment, it should be the norm.