Top Gift Books for Lesbians

Beginning in the 1970s—the early years of both the “t-shirt revolution” and the modern gay rights movement—Gdula traces our history as reflected in funny, inspiring and sometimes sad slogan tees. This cool paperback is a light and informative read for American history buffs and fashion fanatics alike.

Ellen tackles fashion, phobias and bizarre human behavior in this classic book which was first published in 1996—before her famous coming-out. The Ellen fan in your life will love this 2007 reissue, released in September with a new introduction.

This large, hardcover coffee table-type book makes a great gift for a close friend or partner. Illustrated with beautiful classical artwork and sexy modern drawings, The Lesbian Kama Sutra gives a light rundown on every aspect of lesbian life, from coming out and meeting women to the fun and dirty stuff.

This gorgeous and inspiring book documents the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court’s groundbreaking 2003 ruling to grant equal marriage benefits to same-sex couples. Alongside explanations of the legal struggles are touching personal tales and over 100 photographs—recommended reading for both the activists and hopeless romantics on your list, as well as anyone who might be on the fence regarding the marriage issue.

With recommendations ranging from the Greek isle of Lesbos (Sappho’s hometown) to the best belly dance classes and sexiest lingerie shops in the world, this book is a great idea for anyone wanderlusty woman on your list, Sapphic or not. Alongside the fun and creative travel ideas is pertinent and practical safety information.

This informative and occasionally hilarious trivia book can give you a dozen different ways to say "butch", a complete Oscar Wilde filmography and a list of all the countries in the world where lesbian acts are illegal. If you know someone on your shopping list is queer but don’t know much more about them, this book is the perfect safe bet.

Nearly all dykes have at least one Ani enthusiast in their circle of friends. This new collection is a little window into the folksinger’s life, featuring her poetry—including some previously unpublished work—and paintings.

Since 1991, the prolific and hysterical Paige Braddock has been writing the Jane’s World columns, telling the story of butchy heroine Jane and her posse of friends. The latest volume, number eight, came out this October.

Seventy researchers from 15 countries collaborated in 2003 to write this ultimate encyclopedia of homosexuality and homophobia. Over 175 essays talk about gay rights, religion, pop cultural phenomena and everything in between. The scholar on your list will be thrilled to know that this essential text has finally been translated into English.