Description
Book SynopsisDiscussions of gender and sexuality have become part of mainstream conversations and are being reflected in the work of more and more writers of fiction, particularly in literature aimed at young adult audiences. But young readers, regardless of their sexual orientation, don't always know what books offer well-rounded portrayals of queer characters and situations. Fortunately, finding positive role models in fiction that features LGBTQ+ themes has become less problematic, though not without its challenges. In Representing the Rainbow in Young Adult Literature: LGBTQ+ Content since 1969, Christine Jenkins and Michael Cart provide an overview of the literary landscape. An expanded version of The Heart Has Its Reasons, this volume charts the evolution of YA literature that features characters and themes which resonate not only with LGBTQ+ readers but with their allies as well. In this resource, Jenkins and Cart identify titles that are notable either for their excellenceaccurate, thoughtf
Trade ReviewRepresenting the Rainbow in Young Adult Literature offers a comprehensive look at books for teens that discuss sexuality and gender issues…. This work offers a guide to the content of these books, helping readers make collection development decisions that will result in shelving books with positive role models and accurate depictions free of stereotypes and myths…. It is fascinating to observe the development of LGBTQ+ literature throughout the years, as both quality and quantity gradually improve…. Representing the Rainbow in Young Adult Literature is an essential reference for those maintaining a collection in which they hope to include the best books about LGBTQ+ characters…. It is an excellent reference tool for anyone who is doing collection development or who wants a detailed history of young adult literature covering LGBTQ+ issues. * VOYA *
Starred Review: Each chapter discusses a mix of broad themes and trends relevant to each decade and insightfully analyzes significant titles—with enough summary that librarians need not have read the books discussed to understand their importance . . . An essential update for scholars. The bibliographies will invaluably help round out LGBTQ+ collections. * Library Journal *
