A simple but effective look at how not just pink, but also blue, red, green, yellow, and other colors apply to things loved by both boys and girls. The story takes us through the basic colors, including but not limited to pink and blue, and shows us in cheery, racially diverse spreads how each color is for both girls and boys. It also demonstrates how both boys and girls can take part in a range of activities, from dancing to go-cart racing. There’s no plot per se, but Pearlman nevertheless creates rhythm and motion and adds the occasional fun twist, such as when he tells us, “Purple is for boys. And girls./And unicorns, because … unicorns!”
There are no overtly queer characters, but between the unicorns and a rainbow at the end, plus the overall theme, the book easily fits into the category of LGBTQ-inclusive picture books, while also appealing to a wider range of people. One senses that that’s exactly what Pearlman, who lives with his husband in New Jersey, intended. The overall message of being yourself regardless of gender comes through clearly, though nonbinary folks may wish the boy/girl dichotomy wasn’t so strong.
Available as a hardcover or a board book—make sure you select the one you want.
