The LGBTQ-inclusive picture books just keep on coming! Here are three new ones with gender creative protagonists that variously offer beauty, inspiration, and silliness.
Desert Queen, by Jyoti Rajan Gopal, illustrated by Svabhu Kohli (Levine Querido). A dazzling biography in verse of drag performer Queen Harish (Harish Kumar), known as the Whirling Desert Queen of Rajasthan. Gopal’s words are spare and evocative, while Rajasthan artist Kohli’s illustrations are rich in detail, texture, and bold colors. Rhythmic and inspiring, just like Queen Harish, and highly recommended.
Not He Or She, I’m Me, by A.M. Wild, illustrated by Kah Yangni (Henry Holt). This simple, cheery book takes us through a day in the life of a nonbinary child as they wake up, get ready for school, play with friends, and go to bed. Each activity is briefly introduced, followed by an affirming sentence about the child’s identity, e.g., “Lunch is all packed./Mom hugs me tight./Not he or she, I’m me.” While there’s little dramatic tension in this slice-of-life story, it is an affirming depiction of a nonbinary child happy and comfortable with themself, loved by their (apparently single) mom, and with friends who seamlessly accept them.
Pirate Glitterbeard, Larissa Crawley and Oksanna Crawley (Rebel Mountain Press). A fun and fantastical tale of pirates and being oneself. Pirate Gruffybeard loves pink and glitter, but isn’t sure how his crew would react if they found out. Eventually, they do, but turn out to be gender creative themselves. They then must employ their true talents to help save the ship from an enemy pirate. Yes, there’s a message here, but there’s also a ton of silliness, pirate songs, and bright, whimsical illustrations. The book feels like a natural fit for children of parents/guardians who are fans of queer pirate show Our Flag Means Death (also check out The Pirate Mums), but its rollicking appeal should go far beyond.