Pride Month is a celebration, but it's also a reminder of the journeys so many LGBTQ+ people take to find acceptance, belonging, and hope.

In this special Pride Month episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by authors Kody Keplinger, Ryan Collett, and TJ Alexander for honest, heartfelt conversations about identity, community and the power of seeing yourself reflected in stories.

In the first half of the episode, Kody Keplinger and Ryan Collett discuss the isolation and shame that many queer people experience, the importance of finding your people and how books can help readers feel less alone. Together, they explore the transformative power of connection, representation, and hope.

In the second half, TJ Alexander joins Joe for a conversation about queer joy, love stories, and the importance of imagining futures where LGBTQIA+ people aren't simply surviving, they're thriving. From romance and community to the possibilities of a more inclusive world, this discussion celebrates the beauty and power of queer storytelling.

This episode is a reminder that none of us are meant to navigate life alone.

Book Lounge by Libby is a podcast for readers, book lovers, and anyone searching for their next great read.

Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!

Link to our full book list:
Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life!
Here’s a recap of our Monthly Book Picks (Jan-May 2026) and June – October 2026!

Who’s in this episode:

Segment 1:

Kody Keplinger – Website, WHERE LOST GIRLS GO

Ryan Collett – Website, GEORGE FALLS THROUGH TIME

Segment 2:

TJ Alexander – Website, A LADY FOR ALL SEASONS

Time stamps:
00:00:00 Title
00:00:23 Intro
00:00:41 Segment 1 with Kody Keplinger and Ryan Collett
00:45:06 Segment 2 with TJ Alexander
01:28:04 Outro

Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season!

Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!

We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!

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