Three summer picks that will have you laughing (and crying) out loud
June 2023 edition
Hello wonderful readers! Thank you for being here, and a warm welcome to our 17 new subscribers! I hope you're all having a wonderful summer.
As we embrace June, known as PRIDE month, I couldn't think of a better time to introduce you to some of my favorite books featuring LGBTQ+ characters.
In this edition, I'm excited to share three picks that would make a perfect addition to your summer reading list. These books are a delightful blend of humor and engagement that will have you laughing out loud—just as they did to me!
So, let's dive right in.
#1 Red, White & Royal Blue
by Casey McQuiston
About the author
Casey McQuiston is a 32-year-old American author who writes romantic comedies about queer people. As a non-binary author using they/them pronouns, McQuiston aims to create stories that alleviate the isolation often felt by queer individuals, while also shining a spotlight on queer romance. Their debut novel “Red, White & Royal Blue” gained success and established Casey as a notable figure in the genre.
What is the book about and why is it worth reading?
"Red, White & Royal Blue”, published in 2019, is a contemporary queer romcom that gained popularity for its LGBTQ+ romance storyline.
The story follows fictional characters Alex, the son of the first female President of the United States, and Henry, a prince of England as they unexpectedly fall in love. To avert a PR crisis, they are forced to fake a friendship, leading them on a journey of self-discovery as they navigate the challenges of politics, public scrutiny, and personal desires and identities.
What set this book apart for me was its exceptional humor and witty dialogue that will leave you chuckling. Personally, it had me laughing out loud while reading (which doesn’t happen very often). With its engaging characters and charming story, "Red, White & Royal Blue" is an enjoyable and rewarding read that shouldn't be overlooked.
Who is it for?
This book is perfect for anyone seeking a hilarious romance novel, particularly those interested in the themes of love, identity, and LGBTQ+ representation. I believe it's an ideal choice for a relaxing beach read, offering an enjoyable and effortless escape.
#2 This Is Going to Hurt: Secret Diaries of a Junior Doctor
by Adam Kay
About the author
Adam Kay is a British author and former doctor who found himself in the medical profession due to familial influence. Having worked several years as an obstetrics and gynecology junior doctor, Kay left medicine for a career in writing following a complication during a patient's cesarean section.
What is the book about and why is it worth reading?
His memoir "This Is Going to Hurt", published in 2017, offers an honest insight into Kay's experiences working as a junior doctor in the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK.
Through a collection of diary entries, he shares the challenges, triumphs, and emotional toll of his medical career, offering readers an intimate understanding of life on the medical frontlines and the inner workings of the healthcare system. Full of difficult decisions and personal anecdotes, the book is a heartfelt portrayal of the life of an underpaid and overworked doctor. While the book addresses the often sad realities of the medical profession, Kay's honesty, humor, and engaging writing style make it a unique and authentic read.
In 2022, the memoir's popularity led to a successful adaptation by the BBC into a seven-part comedy-drama. The show is rated 8.4/10 on IMDB and is also the one to watch.
Who is it for?
"This Is Going to Hurt" is a recommended read for anyone interested in medicine, human stories, or who simply loves good storytelling. You can expect to laugh, cry, and have an unforgettable journey through the highs and lows of a junior doctor's life.
#3 Less
by Andrew Sean Greer
About the author
Andrew Sean Greer, a 53-year-old American novelist, is the author of six novels. In 2018, Greer received the prestigious Pulitzer Prize for Fiction for his novel "Less". Initially intending to write "Less" as a serious novel only to later realize that "the only way to write about [being gay and aging] is to make it a funny story”. (Source: The Washington Post)
What is the book about and why is it worth reading?
"Less" is a comedic and satirical novel that follows the journey Arthur Less, a 49-year-old gay writer who receives an unexpected invitation to his ex-boyfriend's wedding. To avoid the awkwardness, Less decides to skip town and accepts various literary invitations he usually declines. As he embarks on a tour and travels the world in an attempt to distract himself from the pain of lost love, he is teaching classes and delivering readings while he finds himself in a series of amusing and, at times, exhilarating situations.
"Less" offers a delightful reading experience, presenting an honest and engaging story of a protagonist who dreads turning 50 while striving for personal success. It is a witty and vulnerable story that explores the topics of relationships, status, aging, and traveling.
For a taste of the author's storytelling style, here’s a short clip of Andrew Sean Greer reading a passage from Less about the men he dated.
In 2022, Greer published the follow-up book Less is Lost, which I have yet to read.
Who is it for?
"Less" appeals to readers who enjoy fiction and are seeking an inspiring, vulnerable, and often hilarious story. If you appreciate a well-crafted narrative with a touch of wit and exploration of life's complexities, this novel is definitely worth your time.
Before you go on with your day...
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That's it for today. Thank you for being here, and I'll see you next month!
Happy reading,
Liza
Disclaimer: please note that the links to the books in this edition are affiliate links, so if you choose to make a purchase through those links, I may earn a small commission.