Books are the gateway to another world that unlocks experiences different from a person’s current circumstance. For children, books allow them to learn valuable lessons and discover characters with whom they resonate. Representation across different genres is important because it makes space for readers to connect and feel seen on the pages.
Why Should LGBTQ+ Books For Kids Be Celebrated?
Children are constantly learning new things about themselves as they grow up. Throughout each stage of life, children figure out how they want to express themselves and the type of person they want to be. Figuring out their sexual identity is one experience that may take longer for them to understand.
Books that celebrate the LGBTQ+ community help drive those conversations and provide a sense of belonging for someone still trying to figure themselves out or striving to be more confident in their truth. LGBTQ+ books are also helpful for loved ones who desire to support their kids, but don’t know where to start.
In honor of Pride month, check out these kid-friendly LGBTQ+ books to add to your library.
- Non-fiction: “The Meaning of Pride” by Rosiee Thor
- Fiction: “Bye Bye, Binary” by Eric Geron
- Picture Book: “When Aiden Became a Brother” by Kyle Lukoff
- Realistic Fiction: “I Am Perfectly Designed” by Karamo Brown and Jason Rachel Brown
- Biography/Autobiography: “RuPaul Charles” by Little Bee Books
- Self-Discovery: “Why Do I Have Two Mommies?” by Janai Akerele
Non-fiction
“The Meaning of Pride” by Rosiee Thor
Rosiee Thor’s “The Meaning of Pride” celebrates the history and achievements of the LGBTQ+ community. It takes readers through a brief history lesson of how Pride Month originated and why it is celebrated annually in June. It also provides different ways to support the LGBQT+ communities and how to commemorate the joyous month.
Fiction
“Bye Bye, Binary” by Eric Geron
In “Bye Bye, Binary,” Eric Geron tells the story of a baby who arrives to deconstruct gender norms. Instead of conforming to being a boy or girl, the baby focuses on other items that bring it joy. From choosing toys to gender-bending fashion, this book strives to challenge social norms and be a reminder to kids that what they love doesn’t have a gender attached.
Picture Book
“When Aidan Became a Brother” by Kyle Lukoff
This heartwarming story touches on the changes in a transgender boy’s life as he soon becomes a big brother. After happily settling into his identity, Aidan desires to be the best big brother his sibling could have. Aidan soon understands that the best type of older brother he can be is one who teaches his sibling to love themselves fully.
Realistic Fiction
“I Am Perfectly Designed” by Karamo Brown and Jason Rachel Brown
Karamo Brown is a TV personality and culture expert on the Emmy award-winning Netflix series, “Queer Eye.” He made history in 2004 as the first openly gay Black reality star on MTV’s “The Real World.” The empowering story of “I Am Perfectly Designed” reflects the close relationship between a boy and his father, recounting how they are a perfect match for each other. It also explores themes of self-love and inclusion.
Biography/Autobiography
“RuPaul Charles” by Little Bee Books
RuPaul is one of the most well-known drag queens and host of MTV’s “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” This picture book highlights the accomplishments of notable LGBTQ+ heroes and introduces young readers to community leaders. It also includes a background on RuPaul and his efforts to break down barriers for drag culture.
Self-Discovery
“Why Do I Have Two Mommies?” by Janai Akerele
Janai Akerele’s “Why Do I Have Two Mommies?” explores a child’s natural curiosity and understanding of living in a same-sex household. This book tells the story of a kid’s journey of self-discovery and provides insight into real-life circumstances.
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