LGBTQ+ inclusion is essential for creating a more welcoming society. Diversity in books, especially non-fiction books, embraces this diversity, makes it visible and can allow a platform for marginalised voices to be heard.
My brand new guide is aimed at writers of non-fiction books who want to ensure that they are writing text and creating books that are LGBTQ+-inclusive.
From guidebooks to manuals, to textbooks to cookery books, the non-fiction market covers a massive range of titles and genres. While some may be aimed at a very specific market – The Chicago Manual of Style which sits on my editing desk, for example – a lot of non-fiction is aimed at a far more general audience.
Why?
Why is this important? Books have been around for years without being inclusive, so why do we need to change now?
LGBTQ+ inclusion is essential for creating a more welcoming society. Diversity in books, especially non-fiction books, embraces this diversity, makes it visible and can allow a platform for marginalised voices to be heard.
It’s about recognising everyone – their experiences, their voices and their opinions – and saying that they matter. It ultimately creates a rich, informed and diverse literary landscape.
What is LGBTQ+ inclusion?
This book’s main focus is to ensure that non-fiction books created are LGBTQ+ inclusive. It is important, therefore, that we unpack what being LGBTQ+ is!
The initialism includes both sexualities and gender identities – lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (or questioning) – but includes many more identities.
Download now
Head over to my Ko-fi shop to download your guide for free now! (Donations welcome, of course!) There, you will find other resources that are helpful to writers too.
Tips for creating an inclusive non-fiction book
There is lots of advice and tips for creating inclusive content within the ebook. Here is just a small selection:
- Use Gender-Neutral Pronouns: Incorporate pronouns like “they/them” when referring to individuals in a non-specific or hypothetical context.
- Replace Gendered Terms: Instead of using gendered terms like “he” or “she,” opt for gender-neutral language such as “person” or “individual.”
- Avoid Gendered Assumptions: Refrain from making assumptions about gender identity or sexual orientation in your writing. Instead, focus on universal experiences and themes.
- Respect Preferred Pronouns: When writing about specific individuals, always use their preferred pronouns and names, as a sign of respect.
- Include stories or anecdotes that feature LGBTQ+ experiences. Use case studies that highlight diverse relationships and family structures. Include diverse perspectives in case studies or interviews.
- Avoid assumptions about gender identity or sexual orientation when discussing relationships.
- Highlight LGBTQ+ achievements and contributions in relevant fields. Queer people have existed throughout history and have been part of some remarkable discoveries,
- Offer information on LGBTQ+ support groups, helplines or resources. If relevant, find out about details that specifically target LGBTQ+ communities and include their details in your writing. Offer support, too, for LGBTQ+ allyship and support.
Download now
Head over to my Ko-fi shop to download your guide for free now! (Donations welcome, of course!) There, you will find other resources that are helpful to writers too.
Nick (he/him) is an experienced, professional editor and proofreader, specialising in LGBTQ+ writing. Use this form to get in touch right now!
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