From the creative duo behind Pink Is for Boys, this book builds on the same theme of dismantling gender stereotypes. “Dolls and trucks are for everyone,” we learn. “Toys are for boys and girls and anyone who wants to play.” Capes, dancing shoes, fabric, wood, flutes, drums, unicorns, robots, kindness, and more are also for boys, girls, and “anyone” or “everyone.” As with the first book, the overall message of being yourself regardless of gender comes through clearly. This volume tones down the strict boy/girl dichotomy of its predecessor slightly, in adding “anyone” and “everyone” in addition to simply “boys” and “girls,” but still unfortunately stays away from clear inclusion of nonbinary identities.
Additionally, one character who seems Asian has large round glasses, which feels like a poor choice. Yes, a White character also has glasses. Consider, though, Mickey Rooney’s role as Mr. Yunioshi in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, where the White actor played a Japanese character with large round glasses, exaggerating many offensive stereotypes. Staying well away from anything evoking this image would have been better.
Available as a regular hardcover or a board book.
