Bad Queer

By Gayathiri Kamalakanthan

A luminous and romantic debut novel in verse about navigating first love as a non-binary teenager.

"Not to be missed."--Publishers Weekly starred review ⭐

"A thoughtful and nuanced take on relationships."--Kirkus starred review ⭐

I feel invincible.
Like I could run and run
and never stop for breath.

I feel a power in me
I didn't know I had.

The power to speak,
to say what I need.

Surya knows exactly who they are. Coming out as non-binary to their queer parents and best friend? A total non-event. Catching feelings for Blessing - the boy in drama club whose smile makes their heart race? That's trickier.

As their final year of school unfolds and the two of them grow closer, Surya starts to question: Does Blessing really see them? Or just a version of them that doesn't exist? They'd ask their best friend for advice, but she's busy falling in love too. . .

With gorgeous illustrations throughout, Bad Queer draws us deeply into queer friendship, family secrets, and the necessary act of loving yourself. Perfect for fans of Alice Oseman, Dean Atta, and Sarah Crossan.

This is a love letter to queer futures - tender, curious, and fiercely alive.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0571390668
• ISBN13: 9780571390663
• Release Date: June 2026
• Publisher: Faber & Faber Children's
• Length: 432 Pages
• Weight: 0.80 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.3" x 5.1" x 7.7"
• Age Range: 14 to 18 years
• Grade Range: Grade 9 to Postsecondary