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PODS Reads Book Recommendations

We believe in the power of stories. The right book at the right time can change everything.

To support our Summer Reading Bingo Challenge and beyond, we've put together some of our favorite reads for teens, young adults, and adults. Browse, discover, and add to your summer stack.

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Want to get the whole family involved?

Email us at info@prideofdrippingsprings.org for more reading recommendations.

PODS Board Recommendations

Our Book Tastes are as varied as we are. You've been warned! We will be adding to this list so stay tuned. Many of the books on this list have been challenged or banned in schools and libraries across Texas and the country. We think that's a pretty good reason to read them. All book links go to Bookshop.org, which supports independent bookstores.

Queer Romance

  • The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune

  • One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston

  • Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree

  • The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun

  • (More picks coming soon)

 

Literary Fiction & Classics

  • Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin

  • Paul Takes the Form of a Mortal Girl by Andrea Lawlor

  • (More picks coming soon)

 

Fantasy & Speculative Fiction

  • Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir

  • Six of Crows & Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo

  • (More picks coming soon)

 

Poetry

  • Pretty by KB Brookins ⭐ Texas Author

  • Lord of the Butterflies by Andrea Gibson

  • (More picks coming soon)

 

Memoir & Nonfiction

  • All Boys Aren't Blue by George M. Johnson

  • (More picks coming soon)

 

Graphic Novels & Visual Storytelling

  • Trans History: A Graphic Novel by Alex L. Combs and Andrew Eakett

  • (More picks coming soon)

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Teens & Young Adults (Grades 7-12)

Young Adult covers a wide age range and lots of developmental ground. Professional book reviews and reading the book yourself can help you choose the right fit for your reader.

Must-Reads

  • Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo — Winner of the National Book Award for Young People's Literature. Frequently appears on best LGBTQ+ YA lists.

  • Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas — A bestseller and major teen favorite. Fantasy, mystery, and beautiful LGBTQ+ representation.

  • Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender — Frequently cited on recommended reading lists. Focuses on identity, self-worth, and belonging.

  • Heartstopper by Alice Oseman — One of the most beloved LGBTQ+ teen series worldwide. Positive portrayal of relationships, friendship, and mental health.

  • Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli — A modern YA classic and international bestseller. Adapted into the film Love, Simon.

 

Identity & Memoir

 

Fiction & Fantasy

 

Older Teens (16+)

  • Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston — Technically adult fiction but wildly popular with older teens. A fun, romantic, politically charming love story.

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