Hostas, like any green plant, need some sunlight to thrive. Most hostas love a few hours of morning sunshine, or a few hours of late-day sunshine. So don't be afraid to experiment with hostas in a sunny location; just be attentive to the plant's need for extra water if it gets lots of hot sunshine. If you see a little browning on the leaf edges or at the leaf tip, it is a sign of too much sun or too little water.
Some hostas can enjoy full sunshine, if watering needs are met. Here is a partial list of those hostas:
Allan P. McConnell
August Moon
Blue Angel
Francee
Gold Standard
Guacamole
Halcyon
Honey Bells
Krossa Regal
Plantaginea "Grandiflora"
So Sweet
Sun Power
Undulata Albomarginata