Some of the most famous gay novels are 'Fun Home' by Alison Bechdel. It's a graphic memoir that also functions like a novel. It explores Bechdel's relationship with her father and her own coming - out as a lesbian. 'Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit' by Jeanette Winterson is also very well - known. It's a semi - autobiographical novel about a young girl's journey of self - discovery in a religious and conservative environment as she realizes she's a lesbian. And 'The Color Purple' by Alice Walker, which has strong themes of female - female love and relationships, which can also be related to the broader context of gay literature in terms of exploring non - traditional love.
One of the most famous is 'Giovanni's Room' by James Baldwin. It's a powerful exploration of love, identity, and sexual orientation. The story delves into the complex emotions of the protagonist as he grapples with his feelings for Giovanni. Another is 'Maurice' by E. M. Forster. It was written in the early 20th century but wasn't published until later due to its homosexual themes. It follows the story of Maurice, an upper - class Englishman, as he discovers his homosexuality and tries to find a place for himself in society. And 'Call Me by Your Name' by André Aciman is also well - known. It's a beautiful and poignant story of first love set in Italy.