To learn more about the stories and characters that have helped to build compassion and confidence among LGBTQ youth, we asked Blasingame to share a list of resonant reading recommendations. ”Educators around the world agree that students need to read about characters who reflect their own personal identity, as well as characters who are different from themselves, so that they will both embrace their own true selves and feel compassion for people who are different from them.” “Research tells us that fiction reading increases capacity for compassion and imagination,” Blasingame said. Jim Blasingame, an internationally known scholar of young adult literature and professor in ASU’s English Department, says highly acclaimed literature can be helpful in remediating these issues. June is Pride month, a time to commemorate the people, places and events that have catalyzed change for the LGBTQ community.Īrched by the story of the Stonewall Uprising of 1969, the monthlong observance calls attention to LGBTQ culture - including artists, creators and authors - and that can be an affirming space for members of the LGBTQ community, especially among young people still struggling with identity and acceptance.
JASU professor selects 6 essential reads by, for and about LGBTQ youth
