Her Body and Other Parties – Carmen Maria Machado
Carmen Maria Machado’s ‘Her Body and Other Parties’ is a multitude of things at once – grounding, terrifying, queer, rebellious and experimental. The overarching message is how a woman’s body is never just her own – there are always people who think they are entitled to it. I personally loved the story ‘The Husband Stitch’ for this reason, it was enchanting. This collection of varied short stories is categorised as feminist magical realism, and won the Lambda Literary Award for Lesbian Fiction, so if that doesn’t make you want to read it I don’t know what will!
100 Boyfriends – Brontez Purnell
Described as a “horny, punk love song full of imperfect intimacies”, Purnell’s ‘100 Boyfriends’ was an absolute rollercoaster of a book that I could not put down. It is a fast-paced, slightly chaotic navigation of gay relationships, and is full of hard-hitting realities. ‘100 Boyfriends’ is the kind of book that inspires you in your own writing and has definitely affected mine since reading it. This book is quite an easy read, very humorous at times, and a fun one to tab with your favourite quotes and characters.
Giovanni’s Room – James Baldwin
Last in my recommendations but certainly not least is ‘Giovanni’s Room’, which is by far one of my favourite books of all time. Baldwin’s book is an addictive exploration of queer desire. Set in 1950’s Paris, it follows the tale of an American man’s journey with his sexuality – particularly with Giovanni, an Italian bartender, who encourages him to expose the most vulnerable parts of himself. Filled to the brim with romance and lust, Baldwin’s writing is achingly beautiful, and everyone should read this book.
