We are in the middle of a vibrant renaissance of queer writing. But LGBTQ+ writers, characters and readers have been here since the beginning — quietly, defiantly and persistently telling their stories — if you know where to look.

The Queer Bookshelf is your guide to this essential queer history, and to its contemporary flourishing. Drawing on the author’s own journey as a queer reader and book club host, and packed with recommendations from authors, booksellers, and book lovers around the world, The Queer Bookshelf is a celebration of the books that have helped generations of LGBTQ+ people find themselves on the page.

From literary fiction to memoir, to crime, fantasy, and young adult, and even cowboy romance, The Queer Bookshelf is a warm, entertaining companion for anyone beginning or deepening their own queer reading adventure.

‘The Queer Bookshelf is a joyful compendium of our literary heritage, and I’m honoured my own books are featured. It’s a fun way to fill the holes in my intellectual armour about the many courageous writers who wrote about the love that dared not speak its name long before me. My one caveat: my reading list is now a doozy!’

‘If you’re looking for a friendly guide to welcoming you into the diverse world of queer literature, look no further than The Queer Bookshelf.’

‘Whatever the law might say, our stories matter: on and off the page. This guide is a hopeful starting point for any reader curious about LGBTQ+ stories. It will have you building another shelf, in your imagination if not in your home.’

‘For any reader with even a passing interest in LGBTQ+ literature, The Queer Bookshelf provides an indispensable resource, touching on the history, social, and political dynamics of key texts, while also pointing towards the future. Highly recommended.’

Praise for Breaking the Rainbow Ceiling:

‘Layla is right that the challenges to opportunity exist disproportionately across minority communities — I am thrilled that she’s not only highlighting these disparities for the LGBTQ+ community but is providing insights and solutions to overcome these challenges.’

Praise for Breaking the Rainbow Ceiling:

‘A brilliantly researched book packed full of insight, advice and inspiration for those who want to be able to live, work and succeed as their authentic and fabulous LGBTQ+ selves.’

Praise for Breaking the Rainbow Ceiling:

‘As CEO of the premier non-profit organisation working exclusively on LGBTQ+ workplace equity, inclusion, and belonging, it is such a pleasure to find a book so full of personal insights, research and practical actions on these topics. This book makes it clear how the rainbow ceiling was built, and how to break it down, with anecdotes from people all over the world that make it funny, sad, surprising, and real. Required reading for LGBTQ+ people pursuing their careers as well as for anyone seeking to build a more inclusive workplace.’

Praise for Breaking the Rainbow Ceiling:

‘Profound research, inspiring stories, a clear message: Why are LGBTQ+ people underrepresented at the most senior levels in global workplaces? What can be done to change this — by employers, lawmakers, managers, the queer workforce? And why is this so important — for all of us? Layla McCay has written a very important book, essential for every leader at all levels.’

Praise for Breaking the Rainbow Ceiling:

‘An important look at ways to combat the impacts of prejudice in the workplace so that everyone can thrive at work.’

Layla McCay is a passionate reader, host of queer book clubs from the UK to the US and Japan, and acclaimed performance storyteller with The Moth. She can frequently be found on the BBC and features in The Mortified Guide Netflix miniseries about growing up gay. Layla has won numerous awards for her positive impact on LGBTQ+ culture and inclusion, from Attitude 101 to the Rainbow Honours and Outstanding Executive Role Models. Her book Breaking the Rainbow Ceiling: How LGBTQ+ People Can Thrive and Succeed at Work won an Axiom Gold Book Award. Layla lives with her wife in London.