In this episode of The Brave Bookshelf, Kim Bartosch previews a vibrant slate of upcoming LGBTQ+ young adult novels from Simon & Schuster coming out in 2026, along with an honorary mention from Page Street YA. Kim will also be reviewing each one for June 2026 Pride Month.
From swoony romance and identity discovery to campy dystopian satire, feminist slasher humor, grief-centered contemporary fiction, speculative romance, and a 25th anniversary edition of a queer YA classic, this lineup shows the incredible range of LGBTQ+ storytelling for teen readers.
Kim shares what makes each title stand out, who the books may appeal to, and why queer YA literature matters for teens, families, educators, librarians, and booksellers.
Featured books include:
The Lovers, the Liars, and Me by DeAndra Davis
Publication date: June 23, 2026
Survival Show by Juno Dawson
Publication date: August 4, 2026
Dead Girls by Beck Kubrick
Publication date: September 22, 2026
When the World Was Happy by Benjamin Alire Sáenz
Publication date: September 29, 2026
Just the Good Parts by Robbie Couch
Publication date: September 29, 2026
Rainbow Boys: 25th Anniversary Edition by Alex Sanchez
Publication date: September 29, 2026
And an honorary mention
For the Greatest Good by Blair Hanson. Pub date: June 30, 2026.
This episode is perfect for YA readers, parents, teachers, librarians, booksellers, and anyone looking ahead to must-have LGBTQ+ young adult releases.
QOTD: What new releases are you excited about this year?
Music credit: Vivaldi, The Four Seasons, Spring, first movement via Wavepad
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