LGBTQ+ Books for Children
Written by Theresa Thorn and Illustrated by Noah Grigni
"It Feels Good to Be Yourself" by Theresa Thorn and illustrated by Noah Grigni, is a picture book that introduces young readers to the concept of gender identity, emphasizing that people can identify as boys, girls, both, neither, or somewhere in between, and that it's okay to be exactly who they are.
Words by Thomas Scotto and Illustrated by Olivier Tallec, Translated by Claudia Zoe Bedrick
This story follows a little boy named Raphael, whose daily rhythm is steeped in his immense affection for his friend Jerome. The two boys share jokes and snacks and plan future adventures to the Himalayas. Even when Raphael’s constant talk of Jerome is driving his parents crazy, he remains steadfast: “Raphael loves Jerome. I say it. It’s easy.” And the truth is, when he’s with Jerome, Raphael feels happy, liked, and understood― even special. Thomas Scotto’s simple, strong, and insightful prose and Olivier Tallec’s delightful, expressive illustrations give much emotion and immediacy to the story. - Summary from Goodreads
Julian is a Mermaid by Jessica Love
Julián Is a Mermaid" is a picture book by Jessica Love about a boy named Julián who, after seeing women dressed as mermaids on the subway, dreams of becoming one himself, finding creative ways to dress up and eventually joining a mermaid parade with his supportive grandmother.
10,000 Story by Marcus Ewert and Illustrations by Rex Ray
"10,000 Dresses," a children's picture book by Marcus Ewert, tells the story of Bailey, a young transgender girl who dreams of wearing magical dresses, but faces rejection from her family before finding an ally in Laurel who helps her create the dresses she dreams of.
Camp Prodigy by Caroline Palmer
The two middle school protagonists meet at Camp Prodigy the following summer and form a mutually supportive bond that includes refining musical technique, and for Eli, regaining self-confidence, and for Tate, becoming brave enough to come out to their family as nonbinary.
