Graphic novels with LGBTQ+ characters: Lewis Hancox #LighthouseTakeOver

For Independent Bookshop Week, we invited some of our author pals, local and from further afield, to take over our Instagram account for an hour, recommending books on a chosen theme or in a chosen genre. In case you missed, we’ve published a list of each author’s chosen books (alongside their own work!) here on the website.

We’re lucky to know some pretty splendid folk!

Lewis Hancox is a trans influencer, filmmaker, author and illustrator from the northwest UK. As well as being an inspirational voice, having appeared in TV programmes and creating original content documenting his experiences as a trans man, he has earned a huge online following thanks to his viral comedy videos. Entertaining people, while incidentally educating, is an important theme in his work. His first book is called Welcome to St Hell.

Lewis recommends:

Deadendia by Hanish Steele: There’s so many fun stories within this surreal, colorful world and a diverse cast of characters including a non-binary demon! One of the main characters is a trans guy, his trans history features just the right amount but isn’t made a big deal of.

I Am Not Okay With This by Charles Forsman: It’s dark and bleak in a dramatic teenage way which is right up my street. Simple, stylish illustrations telling the tale of a lesbian protagonist with a supernatural power that’s actually more of a burden.

Heartstopper by Alice Oseman: If you’re living under a rock and not read these books, then get on it (even if you’ve already watched the series). They’re so sweet and beautifully illustrated, I only wish this young, relatable LGBTQ love story existed back when I was a teen.

Girl from the Sea by Molly Knox Ostertag: A beautiful and heartbreaking romance that’s so relatable to anyone who’s faced the fear of coming out to your friends, told through pixel perfect artwork and filled with magic!

On a Sunbeam by Tillie Walden: I’m currently reading this and already gripped by the stunning illustrations and mystical storylines, it’s a really unique sci-fi that features no men at all, only gals and gender-less pals.

The Impending Blindness of Billie Scott by Zoe Thorogood: I found this really moving and thought-provoking. The tale of a young artist who is rapidly losing her eyesight, you really go on the emotional journey with her and meet all kinds of awesome characters along the way.

Kisses for Jet by Joris Bas Baker: This is a story of a trans teen in the 90's, trying to survive boarding school and understand their feelings of being more like a boy than a girl. It's funny, warm and full of nostalgia!

Do check out the lists recommended by the other authors taking part in our Indie Bookshop Week take-overs!