Literature that highlights the experiences of queer children and young adults, including picture books, middle-grade stories, and young adult novels.
Queer theory: A theoretical framework that explores the social construction of gender and sexuality, and how these constructs inform literary representation.
The history of LGBT literature for children and young adults: This topic explores the origins of queer literature, its evolution through different historical periods, and the key authors and works associated with these periods.
The role of picture books in queer literature: This topic considers the unique affordances of picture books in representing queer identities and experiences for children, and the ways in which picture books are used in classrooms and libraries.
The diversity of queer representation in children's and young adult literature: This topic examines the range of queer identities and experiences represented in literature for children and young adults, including intersections with race, class, and disability.
The impact of publishing and marketing on queer literature: This topic explores the ways in which publishing and marketing practices shape the production and reception of queer literature, and the challenges facing queer authors and publishers.
The role of parents and educators in facilitating access to queer literature: This topic considers the different approaches parents and educators can take to introducing children and young adults to queer literature, and the challenges and opportunities associated with these approaches.
The intersection of queer literature and curriculum: This topic examines the ways in which queer literature can be integrated into curriculum at different levels and in different contexts, and the benefits and challenges of doing so.
The relationship between queer literature and social justice: This topic explores the political and ethical implications of queer literature for children and young adults, and how these implications relate to broader social justice issues.
Queer representation in media: This topic examines the ways in which queer identities and experiences are represented in different forms of media, including film, television, and digital media, and the challenges and opportunities associated with these representations.
Queer literacy and critical literacy: This topic considers the role of critical literacy in supporting the development of queer literacy skills, and the ways in which these skills can support social and political empowerment.
Picture Books: Picture books have illustrations that accompany the written text, and are typically geared towards younger children.
Early Reader Books: Early reader books are designed for children who are just learning to read. They have simple vocabulary and short sentences.
Chapter Books: Chapter books are geared towards children who are comfortable reading on their own. They typically have short chapters and more complex storylines.
Middle Grade Fiction: Middle grade fiction is for ages 8-12 and typically features coming-of-age themes and relatable characters.
Young Adult Fiction: Young adult fiction is for ages 12-18, and features more complex themes and plot lines. They often deal with identity, sexuality, and relationships.
Graphic Novels: Graphic novels use illustrations and text to tell a story. They are popular among young readers and can be geared towards any age group.
Poetry: Poetry for children and young adults can be educational, entertaining or inspiring.
Historical Fiction: Historical fiction takes place in a historical setting and often features real people from the time period.
Fantasy/Science Fiction: Fantasy and science fiction novels are popular among both children and young adults. They feature fantastical or futuristic worlds and magic.
Realistic Fiction: Realistic fiction covers contemporary topics and issues through fictional characters and situations.
Mystery/Thriller: Mystery and thriller books appeal to young readers who enjoy solving puzzles and uncovering secrets.