Episode 18: Creating Three-Dimensional LGBTQ+ Characters with Guest Sam Cameron

In this episode, Sharon and Christy are joined by fellow Author Accelerator Certified Book Coach Sam Cameron to discuss how to craft nuanced, authentic LGBTQ+ characters that avoid stereotypes. They provide advice on tropes to avoid, positive examples of LGBTQ+ representation in books, and resources for conducting respectful research. Sam shares her expertise on bringing dimensionality to LGBTQ+ characters by addressing:

• Common pitfalls and clichéd portrayals
• Strategies for making characters feel authentic and complex
• Guidelines for respectful and accurate representation
• Recommendations for further reading and research

Together they offer practical tips authors can use to craft LGBTQ+ characters that feel truly human - avoiding one-dimensional "token" portrayals and instead tapping into the full richness of the community's lived experiences.

Resources Mentioned:

• About GLAAD
• The Vito Russo Test | GLAAD
• "Pride" on Hulu
• If you want to learn more about creating three-dimensional LGBTQ+ characters in your kidlit, subscribe to Sam’s newsletter by visiting www.truantpen.com/lgbtq.

Books Mentioned:

Picture Books

Uncle Bobby's Wedding by Sarah S. Brannen

When Aiden Became a Brother by Kyle Lukoff

Julian is a Mermaid by Jessica Love

Grandad’s Camper by Harry Woodgate

Middle Grade

Too Bright to See by Kyle Lukoff

Graphic Novel

The Prince and the Dress Maker by Jen Wang

Young Adult

Darius the Great is not Okay by Adib Khorram

Marissa Meyers’ Gilded Duology

She Drives Me Crazy by Kelly Quindlen

This Poison Heart by Kaylynn Bayron

 

For more information about Sam Cameron, visit truantpen.com or follow her on Twitter at @sblaircameron.

Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit

For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com or follow her on Instagram @sharon_skinner_author_bookcoach and Twitter @SharonSkinner56.

For more information about Christy Yaros, visit christyyaros.com or follow her on Instagram and Twitter @ChristyYaros.