Middle Grade Pride Reads: Queer-Affirming Books for Ages 8+

Middle school can be a tough time to navigate. Bodies are changing, friendships shift, identities emerge, and kids start asking big questions about who they are and where they fit in the world. That’s why it’s so powerful to give them books that reflect the full spectrum of identity—including queer, trans, and questioning youth.

These middle grade picks celebrate LGBTQ+ voices and stories with heart, humor, and honesty. Whether you’re reading with your child, recommending titles for your classroom or library, or simply looking to diversify your shelf, these stories can open doors to understanding, connection, and self-love.

And yes—you can download the printable version of this post in Canva format, perfect for homeschool portfolios, classroom planning, or sharing with a community group.

Featured Reads

The Best at It by Maulik Pancholy

Bookshop | Allstora
Rahul Kapoor is starting middle school in a small Indiana town, and he’s determined to prove he belongs—by becoming the best at something, anything. As a gay Indian American kid wrestling with anxiety, Rahul’s journey is full of humor, heart, and hard-won growth.
Themes: Queer identity, cultural heritage, mental health, friendship
Why Read It: A tender and funny look at discovering your truth in a world that doesn’t always make it easy.

⚠️ Content Warning: Includes themes of anxiety, coming out, and mild language.

Ana on the Edge by A.J. Sass

Bookshop | Allstora
Ana-Marie Jin is laser-focused on figure skating success—until a new friend uses he/him pronouns for her without hesitation, and Ana begins to question everything. This thoughtful, nuanced story of gender identity and sports pressure is both affirming and accessible.
Themes: Gender identity, sports, friendship, intersectionality
Why Read It: A heartfelt exploration of nonbinary identity through the lens of a passionate young athlete.

⚠️ Content Warning: Explores gender dysphoria, social challenges, and bullying.

Rainbow Revolutionaries: 50 LGBTQ+ People Who Made History by Sarah Prager

Bookshop
From ancient history to modern times, this beautifully illustrated biography introduces 50 trailblazing LGBTQ+ individuals. Each profile is short, engaging, and perfect for sparking inspiration and conversation.
Themes: LGBTQ+ history, activism, role models, intersectionality
Why Read It: A celebration of real people who changed the world—perfect for inspiring young readers to imagine how they might, too.

⚠️ Content Warning: Covers topics like the AIDS crisis, political violence, and discrimination. Presented in an age-appropriate way.

Discussion Starters

The Best at It by Maulik Pancholy

1. What does it mean to be “the best at something”? Do you think Rahul’s goal helped or hurt him?
2. Rahul experiences both anxiety and bullying. How do his friends and family support him—and how could they have done better?
3. Rahul is navigating multiple identities (Indian American, gay, anxious). How do those intersect? Have you ever felt like you were managing many parts of yourself at once?

Ana on the Edge by A.J. Sass

1. Ana feels pressure to conform—both in skating and in gender. Have you ever felt boxed in by other people’s expectations?
2. What role does friendship play in Ana’s journey? How does trust help Ana explore their identity?
3. Ana explores gender without having all the answers. Why is it important to give ourselves time and space to figure things out?

Rainbow Revolutionaries by Sarah Prager

1. Which revolutionary stood out to you most—and why?
2. Were there any people you were surprised to learn were LGBTQ+? Why do you think their identities were hidden or overlooked in history?
3. If you could add someone to this book, who would you choose and why?

Activities to Try

Identity Collage or Journal Page
Have your learner reflect on all the pieces that make them who they are—family, culture, dreams, values—and represent it through art, collage, or journaling.

“What Would You Say?” Roleplay
Practice handling real-life scenarios like hearing someone misgendered or teased. Kids can take turns practicing kind, confident responses.

Rainbow Research Project
Choose a person from Rainbow Revolutionaries and dive deeper! Create a presentation, poster, or video about their impact.

Character Interview
Write an imaginary interview with Rahul or Ana. What would they say about their journeys now?

Letter to Your Future Self
Invite your child to write a letter reflecting on who they are now and the kind of world they hope to grow up in.

Actionable Step: Write to a Leader About LGBTQ+ Rights

Books can inspire action. After reading, encourage your child to write a letter or email to a local leader—like a librarian, school board member, or representative—about why LGBTQ+ books matter.

A simple letter could include:

• Why queer stories are important
• How a book made them feel
• One thing they wish adults would do differently

You can view a printable template here or use this Canva version if you want a colorful, easy-to-fill-in design. Optional: Add art or decorate an envelope before sending!

Why It Matters

Middle grade readers are not too young to explore identity, justice, or inclusion. These books give queer and questioning youth the language, courage, and validation they need—while also helping peers and adults better understand their experiences.

📥 Grab the printable version of this article
🔗 Download or copy via Canva here

Let’s raise readers who are brave, kind, and deeply seen.