The UK is searching for its favorite lesbian or gay novel, with works by Alan Hollinghurst and Sarah Waters among the early picks.
The brainchild of Manchester publishing agency Commonworld, the Big Gay Read is open to any lesbian or gay-themed novel in a public vote.
Suggestions so far include Hollinghurst's The Line of Beauty Tipping the Velvet
The winner will be announced during Manchester's Queer Up North festival in May.
"Lesbian/gay literature is an important part of the lives of many people, especially in the coming out process," Commonworld development worker Cathy Bolton tells "The Guardian" newspaper.
Organizers are hoping the Big Gay Read will introduce readers to a wider variety of novels.
The Line of Beauty Tipping the Velvet BBC
The book hunt is being launched as part of Manchester's annual Pride celebrations.
