The 2018 Rainbow Book List of librarian-recommended, LGBTQ-inclusive books for children and young adults is now out, with almost 50 titles from 18 publishers. At the same time, the list highlights gaps in specific areas of LGBTQ content and the ongoing problem of getting the word out about queer-inclusive kids’ titles.
A recent article calls for more picture books featuring characters with same-sex parents—specifically, ones that are less issue-driven and more about our everyday stories. That’s an approach I’ve been uplifting for years, and I couldn’t be happier to see others pick up the call. Her piece has inspired me to offer some additional thoughts on the state of LGBTQ-inclusive children’s books.
One recent children’s book has incorporated LGBTQ content so unassumingly that you may have missed it. The latest board book in the Tinyville Town preschool series, however, by New York Times bestselling author and illustrator Brian Biggs, not only features a gay protagonist—but shows him in bed with his husband. Biggs was kind enough to share with me the story behind the story.
“If These Ovaries Could Talk,” a fun and informative new podcast by two lesbian moms, shares stories of baby making and other aspects of raising and caring for our families. Meet them and have a listen!
As a GLAAD Media Award winner (Outstanding Blog, 2012), I’m always excited to see the new crop of nominees. This year includes not only a number of terrific bloggers, but also a brand-new Outstanding Kids & Family Programming category—which speaks volumes just by its existence.
Looking for stories of families like yours? Want to expand your understanding of other families under the big rainbow umbrella? Need some inspiration on your parenting journey? Check out these anthologies and other collections of true LGBTQ parenting tales and photos!
The right-wing group One Million Moms has launched a campaign asking publisher Scholastic to stop publishing and promoting LGBTQ-inclusive children’s books. Let’s launch back.
Last Friday, I posted that award-winning author Jacqueline Woodson, who also happens to be a queer mom of color, had been named National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature. She was inaugurated yesterday by the Librarian of Congress, Dr. Carla Hayden. Watch the video, which includes a speech by Woodson in which she thanks her partner and their children, and a conversation between Woodson and Hayden.
Award-winning author Jacqueline Woodson, who identifies as queer and is raising two children, has been named National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature by the Children’s Book Council, Every Child a Reader, and the Library of Congress.
The Fosters, the Freeform drama about two lesbian moms and their mix of five biological and adopted children, will end its run after five years on our screens—but like all good parents, they’re sending their children into the world to have adventures of their own.
