Literary Selections Chosen by ‘them.’—the next-generation community platform which chronicles stories, people and voices through the lens of today’s LGBTQ+ Community.

W Hotels collaborates with them. by announcing the them. x W Hotels Summer Book Club, the next-generation media platform that provides news and commentary through the lens of today’s LGBTQ+ community. 

By harvesting the power of storytelling, W Hotels and them. intend to bring further attention to queer authors and audiences by shining their collective spotlight on three moving literary titles throughout the summer of 2021.

“Whether through original music, digital art, or dancing in the streets at parades around the world, W Hotels has honored Pride with artists of countless mediums over the years,” says Carly Van Sickle, Senior Director, Global Brand Marketing, W Hotels Worldwide. “This year—in light of smaller gatherings—we wanted to celebrate Pride with anyone, anywhere, who would like to connect through the written word. Together with the incredible team at them., we are excited to support three talented authors with our LGBTQ+ guests and fans,” she adds. 

Whembley Sewell, Editor-in-Chief, them. expresses, "We are so proud to be collaborating with W Hotels to put the power of LGBTQ+ storytelling into the hands of people everywhere. Through this book club, we hope readers feel the spirit of Pride all summer long and beyond—no matter where they are.” She continues, “The selections from LGBTQ+ authors in this series are sure to uplift, inspire, and inform —representing the beauty and promise of a more inclusive future. As you—guests and members of them's community—read along, be sure to share connections and reactions to these incredible stories."

The them. x W Hotels Summer Book Club will bring together leading authors, activists, and creatives to dive into outstanding recent LGBTQ+ novels and nonfiction works. From the most unique gay bars to tight-knit queer communities in the unlikeliest of places, readers are invited to take an inspiring tour of the various ways queer people come together and exist in our world today. 

From June through August, them. will announce the monthly book selection on Instagram and invite all to read along and share their thoughts throughout the month. Guests at select W hotels across North America can request a copy of the book to borrow during their stay simply by calling Whatever/Whenever and mentioning the them. x W Hotels Summer Book Club selection of the month.

The inaugural book is 'Real Queer America' by Samantha Allen, a transgender reporter’s narrative road trip that shines a light on unexpectedly vibrant LGBTQ+ communities in conservative states across the country, introducing readers to extraordinary individuals fighting for change. The club members can get a print or digital copy and read alongside Book Club Ambassadors, influential members of the queer community who have been chosen by W Hotels and them., to share their personal interpretations of what they’re reading. A book review will be written and published by them., and readers can share their thoughts using #whotels.