June’s Stories and Poems
To mark Pride month, June's selection of Monthly Stories and Poems showcase works from LGBTQ+ authors.
Family life is a feature of this month's prose selections; in particular we look at how gaps in understanding between family members, whether it be between siblings or parents and children, can be bridged, be that through overcoming physical distance or the passing of time. Identity, 'otherness' and the need to fit in and prove ourselves to others are other themes to explore, as well as the powers that come from opening ourselves up to others.
June's stories and extracts are:
'Sonny's Blues' by James Baldwin
On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous (extract) by Ocean Vuong
'The Selfish Giant' by Oscar Wilde
Shuggie Bain (extract from Chapter 14) by Douglas Stuart
My Antonia (extract from Book 1, Chapter 7) by Willa Cather
The joys and losses, adventures and questions both big and small are touched upon in this month's poetry choices. Through relations with the self, society and previous generations - as well as with the world around us - we begin to come closer to acknowledging past strains, as well as future hopes.
'Holy Island' by Jackie Kay
'Truth' by Afaa Michael Weaver
'Brand New Ancients' (extract) by Kae Tempest
'One Art' by Elizabeth Bishop
'My Grandmother's Love Letters' by Hart Crane
If you're looking for more suggestions and recommendations, take a look at what's on The Reader Bookshelf.
Share
Related Articles
July’s Title Pick for Children: The Blue Umbrella by Emily Ann Davison
The illustrations are really beautiful, and full of life and detail. While you’re turning the pages and telling the story,...
Julys Title Pick for Adults: Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer
Robin is a warm, inclusive and inviting guide to these worlds. The message of many of the essays is that...
July’s Monthly Stories and Poems
Through pieces in this month’s stories and poems pack we’re dipping into the huge subject of family and drawing out...
