The Best Reading Hacks for Chronic Pain Podcast

November 9th, 2023

Chronic pain shouldn’t stop you from living your best reading life. A registered osteopath shares her surprising tips for a cozy winter reading season.

The Best Reading Hacks for Chronic Pain Podcast

Does the perfect reading chair exist? How do I maintain a good reading posture? And what book format is best for someone who has chronic pain problems?

The answers might surprise you in this special winter reading episode dedicated to anyone navigating chronic pain challenges. 

Today’s podcast will help you create the perfect cozy reading space while acknowledging the additional challenges you might face, especially during winter.

This week’s remarkable guest is Alexandra Orfanides, a registered osteopath, the creative mind behind Hypermobility HQ on TikTok, and the host of Help! I’m Hypermobile Podcast.  

With her wealth of experience in the medical and creator spaces, Alex shares insights on the best ways to give your body TRUE rest when reading. 

As a bonus, Alex shares a touching personal connection to literature and discusses her recent challenges with connecting to books. To kick start her reading life up again, I’m providing three book recommendations to reignite her passion for literature.

Check out our bonus Cozy Reading Guide featuring all the products recommended by Alex and essential items that have personally helped me navigate health challenges while reading.

Whether seeking advice, inspiration, or a book review, this episode is your guide to the best winter reading set-up. 

Alexandra Orfanides

Meet Alex

Alexandra Orfanides brings her expertise as an osteopath with a Master’s degree in Osteopathy and a Bachelor’s degree in English language and literature. This unique combination couldn’t have been more perfect for today’s show. 

Alexandra offers in-person and virtual consultations to patients. She hosts the new podcast Help! I’m Hypermobile, and uses her various platforms to raise awareness about hypermobility to help her community navigate daily challenges. 

The Best Reading Hacks for Chronic Pain

Listen to the Book Gang Podcast:

Listen below or listen on your favorite podcast listening platform!

Mentioned in this episode:

Joining the Patreon community is an affordable way to support the show and gain access to a wealth of resources, including our monthly FULLY BOOKED buzzy new release show, exclusive author interviews, music playlists, and more! 

2023 MomAdvice Fall Reading Guide

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)

Breathe and Count Back From Ten by Natalia Sylvester

Watch Alex’s Towel Trick on TikTok

Dysautonomia

Animation tablet

Penguin upright mouse

Hard Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World by Haruki Murakami

The Ladies Handbook for Her Mysterious Illness by Sarah Ramey

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

Shark Heart: A Love Story by Emily Habeck

A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers – solar punk

A Prayer for the Crown-Shy by Becky Chambers

Wild Geese by Mary Oliver

The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupery

The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams

Beasts of Extraordinary Circumstances by Ruth Emmie Lange

Shop the above (Amazon) links or through my Book Gang Bookshop Page!! They pay a 10% commission on every sale and match 10% to independent bookstores.

Connect With Us:

Get My Happy List Newsletter

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Connect With Alex on Instagram, Tiktok, her Podcast, or Website

Join the MomAdvice Book Club

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Buy Me a Coffee (for a one-time donation)

100 Unique Stocking Stuffers for Everyone On Your List

November 7th, 2023

This INCREDIBLE list of 100 stocking stuffers offer the perfect gift ideas for everyone on your list. We have included men, women, teens, tweens, and toddlers!

100 Unique Stuffing Stuffers for Everyone on Your List

Are you looking for the perfect small gift to tuck in your family member’s stocking? Today I’m sharing my Christmas stocking stuffers that everyone will love.

My family never did stockings, when I was growing up, and I was always so enchanted by the tradition at my boyfriend’s (now husband) house.

Each stocking was uniquely made and cut from felt with adorable details on each one. I loved watching them open their stocking and the fun things that their parents came up with to give to them.

In their house, they had scratch-off lottery tickets, car wash gift certificates, toll road gift cards, and their favorite candy.

As with ALL my holiday gift guides I want to give you a list of useful gifts to share with a loved one on Christmas morning.

100 Unique Stocking Stuffers For Everyone On Your List

We want to acknowledge that 2023 is expensive, and we have done our best to include families in ALL budgets for this year’s list.

If you are on a budget, I recommend that you sign up with Rakuten to do your shopping. We’re sharing some instructions below for ways to apply this to bigger ticket items in our list. This app gives you cash back on all your qualifying purchases.

If you want to read more about this shopping app, head here for an in-depth review of what Rakuten offers.

If you just want $40 and plan to get shopping, this should automatically deposit $40 in your account for your purchases (sorry- new customers only!).

And while the new stuff is fun, remember that experiences can also be an excellent stocking surprise that will only take up a little room in your home.

We have ideas for saving on theatre tickets and a fun Choose Your Own Adventure travel experience you can gift for the holidays.

However you shop, sharing this resource is a big help to our family!

You are supporting a woman-owned small business, and I’m SO GRATEFUL. Thank you for trusting me with this process for TWENTY YEARS.

100 Unique Stocking Stuffers for Everyone On Your List

The Best Stocking Stuffers

We have 100 ideas for the best stocking stuffers for men, women, kids, teens, and toddlers in this 2023 gift guide!

This year's list is divided into categories for easy shopping.

THE BEST STOCKING STUFFERS FOR MEN

Looking for the best stocking stuffers for the guy in your life? This list has you covered with lots of incredible budget-friendly options.

THE BEST STOCKING STUFFERS FOR WOMEN

The best stocking stuffers I recommend for the women in your life. These are some of my tried-and-true favorites that have been a hit with readers, too.

THE BEST STOCKING STUFFERS FOR TEEN GIRLS

You don't need to be a teen girl to love these stocking stuffer options, but Google likes us to have gender specific category titles for our gift guides. Why? We don't know!

THE BEST STOCKING STUFFERS FOR TEEN BOYS

You don't need to be a teen boy to love these stocking stuffer ideas, but Google likes us to have gender specific category titles for our gift guides. Why? We don't know!

BEST STOCKING STUFFERS FOR KIDS

The best stocking stuffer ideas for kids can be found in this fun gift list for the holidays.

THE BEST STOCKING STUFFERS FOR TODDLERS

Looking for the best stocking stuffer ideas for your favorite toddler? We have you covered in this fun list with age recommendations on these gift ideas.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
This post contains affiliate links from RewardStyle. Thank you for supporting our website through your purchases.
100 Unique Stocking Stuffers for Everyone On Your List

Advent Calendar for Teens That They Will Love

November 6th, 2023

An advent calendar for teens and tweens can make the holidays special. Shop this curated guide for fun ways to countdown to Christmas this year.

Advent Calendar for Teens They Will Love

One of my favorite gifts to give my teen is their advent calendar as a Christmas gift each year. This year, we wanted to offer this year’s best calendar ideas for your kiddos in this age category, as well as those college-age kiddos that deserve a fun way to celebrate the season.

We have you covered with a few of our favorite ways to countdown Christmas in 2023. 

To keep it economical, be sure to read our suggestions for ways to reuse keepsake boxes or diy advent calendars for the season with our smart ideas for saving.

DON’T FORGET TO ACTIVATE YOUR RAKUTEN WHEN SHOPPING. HERE IS $40 back on your first purchase.

If you aren’t familiar with the program, this is my beginner’s tutorial on how to use Rakuten (and some sneaky ways I get cashback on stuff we buy all the time).

Let’s celebrate the 12 days of Christmas with these fun ideas for the season.

Advent Calendar for Teens

Discover the perfect teen advent calendar for a memorable holiday countdown with these fun suggestions curated by the MomAdvice team.

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

HOLIDAY ADVENT CALENDAR GAMES AND BUILDS

These advent calendar games and puzzles can be done independently or as a family experience.

ART ADVENT CALENDARS

These arts and crafts advent calendars are perfect for the budding artist in your life.

ADVENT CALENDARS FOR TEEN BOYS

You don't need to be a teen boy to love these ideas, but Google likes us to have gender specific category titles for our gift guides. Why? We don't know!

FOOD ADVENT CALENDARS

Unwrap a tasty surprise every day with this list of food advent calendars. From chocolates to gourmet treats, find the perfect December bite for the season.

ADVENT CALENDARS FOR TEEN GIRLS

You don't need to be a teen girl to love these ideas, but Google likes us to have gender specific category titles for our gift guides. Why? We don't know!

POCKET ADVENT CALENDAR & OTHER DIY ADVENT CALENDAR EXPERIENCES

These personalized calendars allow you to personalize it to your teen's interests.

Fill the pocket calendar with handwritten notes, a crafty calendar with homemade treats. These DIY advent calendars offer a unique way to make the holiday season more meaningful.

PET ADVENT CALENDAR

Have a teen that's crazy about their furry friends? A pet advent experience can be a lot of fun for teens to open!

Love this guide? Don’t miss these other holiday gift guides:

Best Gifts for Minimalists

The Best Gifts for Kids Who Have Everything

Retirement Gifts for Men They Will Love and Use

Unique Gifts for the Man Who Has Everything

Advent Calendars for Teens They Will Love

Amazon First Reads for November (Choose a FREE Book)

November 1st, 2023

Discover the best Amazon First Reads for November and choose one FREE book. Browse this month’s Kindle book titles- a limited-time Prime member offer.

Amazon First Reads for November (Choose a FREE Book) from MomAdvice.com

Happy November, readers! I’ve heard from so many of you that these posts are helpful as you select your books each month, so I wanted to continue that tradition.

Each month I spend time going through the early feedback on the First Reads options and help you make the best book choices for your reading life.

This month’s book selections come with some content warnings for sensitive readers. One book is set during the pandemic, another offers lots of spice, and we also have darker themed books this month.

If you haven’t cashed in before, Prime members can choose Kindle eBooks a month before their release dates. I have an article that fully explains the Amazon First Reads program (previously known as Kindle First).

Be sure to scroll all the way down to see what I picked in November. I encourage you also to browse my UPDATED  Prime Reading Guide and access TEN FREE BOOKS through the Prime library.

Amazon First Reads Free Book

Make sure you see the BUY IT NOW FOR FREE option (pictured above) when checking out. You might not be signed into your account if it doesn’t show.

I’ve gathered the book summaries, early reviews, and feedback to assist you, but don’t feel limited by my suggestions. You can go directly to the landing page to pick your book. 

Amazon First Reads November Books

Amazon First Reads for November (Choose a FREE Book)

Pick one FREE Amazon First Reads book for November, included with your Amazon Prime member benefits.

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

VERDICT: WHAT I PICKED

I’m very intrigued by The Last Caretaker as I screen selections for potential book club book features for the Book Gang podcast. I love helping you find the best book club books, so I’ll go with that this month.

Keep in mind this exploration does involve women fleeing domestic abuse and may be unsuitable for some readers.

If you are craving a lighter escape, I recommend Leave It to Us or The Daughters of Block Island for readers craving a Gothic mystery.

TELL ME: What are you picking this month?

Beautiful Lessons from a Book Club for Inmates

October 26th, 2023
Beautiful Lessons from a Book Club for Inmates from MomAdvice.com

Let’s celebrate the feel-good moments and literary achievements of the Second Chance Book Club for inmates and their tireless leader, Jennifer Williams.

Join us for a heartwarming Book Gang podcast episode as we meet Jennifer, the “book lady” of Danville, VA, changing incarcerated women’s lives through the Second Chance Book Club. 

Today, we explore the logistics and challenges of running an incarcerated book club and the incredible rewards that Jennifer has witnessed in their participants. 

Plus, Jennifer shares three of her favorite backlist book club books to discuss with a book club of your own.

Second Chance Book Club

If you would love to be a part of her literary legacy, head to her holiday gift registry to donate books for their prison book club. The inmates get to keep the books they read, and Jennifer highlights the incredible ways reading helps as they move on to their next chapter in life. 

The Best Book Club Books to Discuss Now

Thanks to the support of Patreon members, listeners have access to a bonus curated book list of the best book club books to discuss now created by historical fiction writer Meagan Church.

It was such a fantastic list of recommendations that we have updated this book list with Jennifer’s book club books she highly recommends for impactful conversations. 

Jennifer Williams- The Book Lady

Meet Jennifer Williams

Jennifer Williams, the “book lady” of Danville, Virginia, is on a mission to donate 1 million books to local children. A dedicated teacher, she is working two jobs to fund her initiative. 

Jennifer’s commitment extends to running a women’s book club at the Danville Jail, where members have become avid readers. 

Her work has garnered community support and recognition for its positive influence in her town. We are proud to support this literary hero on the podcast today.

Listen to the Book Gang Podcast:

Listen below or listen on your favorite podcast listening platform!

Mentioned in this episode:

Joining the Patreon community is an affordable way to support the show and gain access to a wealth of resources, including our monthly FULLY BOOKED buzzy new release show, exclusive author interviews, music playlists, and more! 

Second Chance Book Club Gift Registry– PLEASE Donate a Book

2023 MomAdvice Fall Reading Guide

The Best Book Club Books to Discuss Now (BONUS BOOK LIST)

Second Chance Book Club on Facebook

Meet the ‘Book Lady’. She’s determined to donation 1 million books to Virginia kids

Jennifer on the Today Show 

Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbit

Second Chance Book Club Wish List

If the Creek Don’t Rise by Leah Weiss

All the Little Hopes by Leah Weiss

The Life We Bury by Allen Eskens

Nothing More Dangerous by Allen Eskens

Murphy’s Boy by Torey Hayden

Trapped in Silence

Shop the above (Amazon) links or through my Book Gang Bookshop Page!! They pay a 10% commission on every sale and match 10% to independent bookstores.

Connect With Us:

Connect with Amy on Instagram, on TikTok, or MomAdvice

Join the MomAdvice Book Club

Shop Our Bookish Shirts to support the show

Buy Me a Coffee (for a one-time donation)

The Best Book Club Books to Discuss Now

October 26th, 2023
The Best Book Club Books to Discuss Now

Looking for the best book club books for your book group? Don’t miss these 13 discussion-worthy books in literary fiction, historical fiction, and nonfiction.

In today’s Book Gang episode, Meagan Church brought her favorite selections for the best conversation starters and discussed her magnificent debut, The Last Carolina Girl. Don’t miss this compelling episode as we discuss the best book club books to spark conversation.

Listen to the full episode (the show notes are located here) below and subscribe to the Book Gang podcast for more episodes like this one.

You can learn more about this fantastic historical fiction book below. After all, we can’t discuss book club reading without including Meagan’s moving selection.

This bonus book club list of book club recommendations from Meagan Church, today’s author, will spark conversations and appeal to various book lovers.

What Makes a Good Book Club Book?

What makes a good book club pick? For me, it’s one that sparks conversation and gets the book club talking beyond our scheduled time.

Or, well beyond our time, as my pre-teen pointed out after my last book club meeting.

The best books for book clubs start a dialog that sometimes transports us beyond the pages of the books and deep within ourselves.

In other words, I love a book that has characters, plot, and themes that get us talking and, before we know it, we are opening up about our own experiences. Sometimes our conversations lead to tears. A lot of times there is laughter. And my favorite is when we discover commonality, shared experiences and me-too moments.

The Best Book Club Books to Discuss Now

The following is a list of book club recommendations that historical fiction author Meagan Church, believes will spark conversations and appeal to various book lovers.

This book club list includes selections across genres, old and new books, fiction and nonfiction alike.

BEST NONFICTION BOOK CLUB BOOKS

These are best nonfiction books for book clubs! To expand this category more, visit this book list of memoirs for Nonfiction November.

GOOD BOOK CLUB BOOKS ABOUT FRIENDSHIP

These friendship-enhancing books are perfect for your next gathering. If you want more book ideas like this, don't miss the best books about friendship book list.

HISTORICAL FICTION BOOKS FOR DISCUSSION

This short historical fiction book list offers incredible discussions because you can pair the facts with these fictional stories.

If you want to expand this list, here are 53 of the best historical fiction books we have featured over the years on the site.

ADDITIONAL BOOK CLUB BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS FROM GUESTS

Jennifer Williams from the Second Chance Book Club shared her top book club recommendations with her book club for inmates.

You can listen to her Book Gang episode, "Beautiful Lessons from a Book Club for Inmates."

Meet today’s contributor:

Meagan Church writes to explore the truths and nuances of who we are. But mostly she writes because she’s compelled to unearth overlooked stories. Her historical fiction chronicles the plight and fight of unheard voices of the past. After receiving a B.A. in English from Indiana University, Meagan built a career as a storyteller and freelance writer for brands, blogs and organizations. A Midwesterner by birth, she now lives in North Carolina with her high school sweetheart, three children and a plethora of pets. The Last Carolina Girl is her first novel, available on store shelves now.

This post contains affiliate links.

Love this post? Check out these book lists!

What book sparked the best conversation for you or your club? We would love to expand this list!

13 of the Best Book Club Books to Discuss Now

Matt Cain’s Publishing Journey: The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle

October 12th, 2023

Matt Cain discusses the challenging history in publishing for LGBTQ History Month. Discover the inspiration for his book, The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle.

Matt Cain's Publishing Journey: The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle

We are giving listeners a peek behind the paywall to share one of my favorite interviews of 2023 in honor of LGBTQ History Month. 

Join us as we delve into the captivating world of renowned author Matt Cain, as we celebrate his charming novel, The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle.

Beyond discussing his book, Matt opens up about the immense publishing challenges he faced, most notably with The Madonna of Bolton, a novel rejected more than 30 times for being deemed ‘too gay.’ 

Discover how it evolved into one of the fastest crowdfunded projects on Unbound after Matt courageously unveiled his rejection letters to the world, and how he views the publishing world now. 

We’ll also explore the genre of UpLit, its key markers, and what to expect in UpLit books. The answer might surprise you!

Join us on this inspirational journey, as we continue our discussion for LGBTQ History Month.

The Best Books for LGBTQ History Month

UPDATED: Don’t miss this week’s bonus book list-  The Best Books for LGBTQ History Month

The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle by Matt Cain

The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle 

Follow the remarkable journey of 64-year-old postman Albert Entwistle, who has quietly delivered mail for decades while harboring a secret past. 

Forced into retirement and facing a lonely future, Albert takes a courageous step to rediscover his lost love. 

This heartwarming and life-affirming love story takes readers on an unforgettable adventure, proving that it’s never too late to find love in the most unlikely and unexpected places.

Matt Cain

Meet Matt Cain

Matt Cain is a notable figure in writing and broadcasting, celebrated for his contributions to LGBT+ issues. 

With a remarkable career serving as Channel 4’s first Culture Editor and Editor-In-Chief of Attitude magazine, he has significantly impacted media and journalism.

As an accomplished author, Matt has penned several novels, notably The Madonna Of Bolton, that became Unbound’s fastest crowdfunded novel.

Today, we celebrate Matt’s publishing revolution and celebrate The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle, a 2023 MomAdvice Book Club selection.

Matt Cain’s Publishing Journey: The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle

Listen to the Book Gang Podcast:

Listen below or listen on your favorite podcast listening platform!

Mentioned in this episode:

Joining the Patreon community is an affordable way to support the show and gain access to a wealth of resources, including our monthly FULLY BOOKED buzzy new release show, exclusive author interviews, music playlists, and more! 

2023 MomAdvice Fall Reading Guide

The Best Books for LGBTQ History Month (BONUS BOOK LIST- UPDATED!)

Celebrate LGBTQ History With This Curated Stack- Jeffrey Dale Lofton Interview

The London Séance Society by Sarah Penner

The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle by Matt Cain

What is Uplit?

Madonna of Bolton by Matt Cain

Becoming Ted by Matt Cain

Heartstopper by Alice Oseman

Attitude Magazine

Attitude Heroes Podcast

The Albert Kennedy Trust

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce

Eleanor Elephant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman

Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel

POV: Albert’s First Night Out Playlist

Becoming Ted Playlist

Shirley Valentine 

Magic Season by Wade Rouse

Amy’s interview with Wade Rouse

My Policeman by Bethan Roberts

Matt’s Graham Norton interview

The Matchmaker’s Gift by Lynda Cohen Loigman

Amy’s Interview with Lynda Cohen Loigman

Matzah Book Soup Book Club

Shop the above (Amazon) links or through my Book Gang Bookshop Page!! They pay a 10% commission on every sale and match 10% to independent bookstores.

Connect With Us:

Connect with Matt Cain on Instagram or on his Website

Connect with Amy on Instagram, on TikTok, or MomAdvice

Join the MomAdvice Book Club

Shop Our Bookish Shirts to support the show

Buy Me a Coffee (for a one-time donation)

Amazon First Reads for October (Get TWO FREE Books)

October 2nd, 2023

Discover the best Amazon First Reads for October and get TWO FREE books. Choose from a selection of Kindle book titles- a limited-time Prime member offer.

Amazon First Reads for October (Get TWO FREE Books)

Is it already time for your October read? I’m thrilled you can access TWO free books this month. 

If you haven’t cashed in before, Prime members can choose Kindle eBooks a month before their release dates. I have an article that fully explains the Amazon First Reads program (previously known as Kindle First).

Be sure to scroll all the way down to see what I picked in October. I encourage you also to browse my UPDATED  Prime Reading Guide and access TEN FREE BOOKS through the Prime library.

Amazon First Reads Pre-Order Screen

Make sure that you see the BUY IT NOW FOR FREE as an option when checking out. If it doesn’t show, you might not be signed into your account.

To assist you, I’ve gathered the book summaries along with early reviews and feedback. You can also go directly to the landing page to pick your book. 

Amazon Kindle First Reads October 2023- Pick 2 FREE Books

Amazon First Reads for October (Get TWO FREE Books)

Pick two FREE Amazon First Reads books for October, included with your Amazon Prime member benefits.

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

AMAZON FIRST READS SHORT STORY SELECTIONS

These are the short story selections for the October Amazon Reads program.

AMAZON FIRST READS MIDDLE-GRADE SELECTIONS

This is your middle-grade option for October.

VERDICT: WHAT I PICKED

This was another tough month, even with the ability to select two selections. 

Based on early feedback, I’m going with The Village Healer’s Book of Cures because it sounds like the perfect Gothic escape for the fall season. 

Lights Out also had such high praise that I’m intrigued to give this series a shot, even as someone who doesn’t love sports. 

TELL ME: What are you picking this month?

Amazon First Reads for October (Get TWO FREE Books)

The Best Books for LGBTQ History Month

September 28th, 2023
The Best Books for LGBTQ History Month

Discover history with these must-read books for LGBTQ History Month! Explore the diverse stories and struggles through nonfiction, fiction, and YA reads.

Jeffrey Dale Lofton recently appeared on the Book Gang podcast to chat about his debut book, Red Clay Suzie.

Given Jeffrey Dale Lofton’s extensive expertise in literature, thanks to his senior advisory position at the Library of Congress, he was an excellent collaborator in crafting today’s book list.

Listen to the full episode below (the show notes are located here) and subscribe to the Book Gang podcast for more episodes like this one.

This month-long celebration highlights the LGBTQ community’s rich and diverse history.

Before sharing the book list, I wanted to answer frequently asked questions about what LGBTQ hiistory History Month is.

Who Started LGBTQ History Month?

In 1994, Rodney Wilson, a high school history teacher from Missouri, established LGBTQ History Month.

Thanks to his efforts, he gained the backing of the National Education Association’s General Assembly. This laid the groundwork for a dedicated month to celebrate LGBT history.

You can discover more information on the history through the Library of Congress.

Why Do We Celebrate Pride Month in June and LGBT History Month in October?

In June, Pride Month offers the LGBTQ+ community and its allies a chance to unite and celebrate LGBTQ+ rights.

It commemorates the Stonewall riots in June 1969, which catalyzed the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.

LGBTQ+ History Month, observed in October, focuses on educating people about the history, struggles, and achievements of the LGBTQ+ community. 

It highlights key figures, events, and milestones in LGBTQ+ history to foster understanding and respect. 

While Pride Month is more celebratory and contemporary, LGBTQ+ History Month delves into the community’s historical context and challenges. 

Both months contribute to LGBTQ+ awareness and support but have distinct missions.

We encourage you to explore this month’s book list for BOTH Pride Month and LGBTQ History Month. 

The Best Books for LGBTQ History Month

Jeffrey Dale Lofton's insightful book recommendations reflect his passion for storytelling and the LGBTQ+ community.

Through Jeffrey's knowledgeable role as a senior advisor to the Library of Congress, we have one of our most well-curated book lists today.

Additional selections from Larry Hoffer, my incredible co-host on Patreon and a proud member of the LGBTQ community, have also been added.

Finally, I've included the books that have impacted me the most over my reading years. I hope these book selections evoke compassion and empathy as we reflect on this history month.

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

LGBTQ BOOKS FOR ADULTS FOR LGBTQ HISTORY MONTH

These LGBTQ books for adults offer education and reflection on pivotal moments like the AIDS crisis and its impact and other critical moments in history.

LGBTQ YA BOOKS FOR LGBTQ HISTORY MONTH

These impactful LGBTQ young adult books are books you can share with your teen or tween, exploring how this history impacted the younger generation.

BEST LGBTQ NONFICTION BOOKS

These nonfiction books are gripping page-turners that offer necessary history lessons that give readers context to this time.

What what book would you recommend for LGBTQ History Month? Let us know in the comments below what this list is missing!

Celebrate LGBTQ History Month With This Curated Stack

September 28th, 2023

Debut novelist and senior advisor to the Library of Congress, Jeffrey Dale Lofton, discusses identity and self-discovery for LGBTQ History Month in October.

Celebrate LGBTQ History Month With This Curated Stack

Jeffrey Dale Lofton is one of the most intriguing voices I’ve read this year, and  I count his debut among my favorites of 2023. 

 Join us on an inspiring journey as we sit down with Jeffrey Dale Lofton, the talented debut author behind Red Clay Suzie, a fictional memoir that delves into the depths of identity, self-discovery, and the journey of growing up as a gay boy in the Deep South. 

In this intimate conversation, Lofton shares his personal experiences that shaped this remarkable narrative, the challenges of navigating his own identity, and the power of storytelling to bridge understanding, especially in the LGBTQ community.  

As a senior advisor to the Library of Congress, Lofton brings a unique perspective to literature and history. Be sure to tune in to the second half of our conversation to discover his top book recommendations for LGBTQ History Month. 

Don’t miss this week’s bonus book list-  The Best Books for LGBTQ History Month!

This new book list includes fiction and nonfiction books on queer history. 

Red Clay Suzie Book Synopsis

Nominated for The Center for Fiction 2023 First Novel Prize, this debut novel will resonate with fans of Jeff Zentner

Told through childlike narration, Philbet is a young boy with a misshapen chest and a heart full of dreams embarking on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance in the rural landscapes of Georgia. 

Amidst the backdrop of tomato sandwiches, green milkshakes, and a deep love for cars, he grapples with the challenges of being a gay outsider in a conservative community. 

Bullied, misunderstood, and yearning for acceptance, he discovers unexpected sources of strength and solace within his community. 

Inspired by Lofton’s true life story, this coming-of-age story will capture your heart.

Meet Jeffrey Dale Lofton

Jeffrey Dale Lofton transitioned from a career in acting to pursue post-graduate studies, earning Master’s degrees in Public Administration & Library and Information Science. 

Currently, he serves as a senior advisor at the Library of Congress, indulging in his love for books.

Originally from Warm Springs, Georgia, the author now resides in Washington, DC. 

Red Clay Suzie is his debut novel and was longlisted for The Center for Fiction 2023 First Novel Prize.

Celebrate LGBTQ History Month With This Curated Stack

Listen to the Book Gang Podcast:

Listen below or listen on your favorite podcast listening platform!

Mentioned in this episode:

Joining the Patreon community is an affordable way to support the show and gain access to a wealth of resources, including our monthly FULLY BOOKED buzzy new release show, exclusive author interviews, music playlists, and more! 

2023 MomAdvice Fall Reading Guide

The Best Books for LGBT History Month (BONUS BOOK LIST)

Red Clay Suzie by Jeffrey Dale Lofton

In the Wild Light by Jeff Zentner

And I Do Not Forgive You by Amber Sparks

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Call Me by Your Name by Andre Aciman

The Serpent King by Jeff Zentner

The Best Libby App Tips & Tricks

The Honeys by Ryan La Sala

Pete Cross, Audio Book Narrator

The Born This Way Foundation

The Trevor Project

LGBTQ History Month

How to Survive A Plague by David France

My Government Means to Kill Me by Rasheed Newson

Rasheed Newson’t Debut Novel Retells the Early Years of AIDS in New York City

The Other Pandemic by Lynn Curlee

Short Film Starring My Beloved’s Red Bronco by K. Iver

Who is This Grief For?

The Center for Fiction 2023 First Novel Prize Longlist

Shop the above (Amazon) links or through my Book Gang Bookshop Page!! They pay a 10% commission on every sale and match 10% to independent bookstores.

Connect With Us:

Connect with Jeffrey on Instagram or his Website

Connect with Amy on Instagram, on TikTok, or MomAdvice

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