10 queer YA books to add to your TBR this Pride Month

Some Girls Do – Jennifer Dugan

Ruby is a pageant queen ready to retire. She’d rather be working on cars than putting on heels. But she’ll do what it takes to keep the peace with her mom, even though she knows deep down she isn’t happy.

Morgan is new to town after having been forced out of her last high school for coming out. Amidst the turmoil of a lawsuit, and trying out for a new track team, Morgan still believes that there is no price to being true to yourself.

When Ruby and Morgan meet, sparks immediately fly, even though it is far from smooth sailing. As the two grow closer, their chemistry is undeniable, but can they figure out a way to be together that is safe for Ruby without compromising Morgan’s beliefs?

Some Girls Do is a swoony and compelling rom-com embedded with necessary conversations about coming out and safety. As a treat, you can read our interview with the author about coming out narratives in YA and the inspirations behind her writing.

The official synopsis reads:

"Morgan, an elite track athlete, is forced to transfer high schools late in her senior year after it turns out being queer is against her private Catholic school’s code of conduct. There, she meets Ruby, who has two hobbies: tinkering with her baby blue 1970 Ford Torino and competing in local beauty pageants, the latter to live out the dreams of her overbearing mother. The two are drawn to each other and can’t deny their growing feelings. But while Morgan–out and proud, and determined to have a fresh start–doesn’t want to have to keep their budding relationship a secret, Ruby isn’t ready to come out yet. With each girl on a different path toward living her truth, can they go the distance together?"

Some Girls Do is available now wherever books are sold.