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.
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.
This year saw a great crop of books by, for, and about LGBTQ families. Here are some of my favorites. Make them yours (and your children’s), too!
Want six children’s books that include gender diverse characters from a variety of racial and ethnic identities? Want them to revolve around family celebrations in many types of families? Micro-press Flamingo Rampant’s second collection of books has what you need!
Ten years ago, Dottie’s Magic Pockets became the first live-action series created especially for kids with LGBTQ parents. A music album followed. Now, its creators are back with a companion book to their song “Who’s in Your Family?” (and you can get a “super secret” early-bird perk)!
A mom and her real-life daughters bring us a children’s book with the story of two girls whose mom is dating a woman. Some of the very first LGBTQ-inclusive children’s books had a similar theme, but it’s one that’s taken a back seat to more recent depictions of long-term same-sex parent couples. Here’s why it’s a theme worth reviving.
A new children’s book not only features a gender-creative child, but also gives us a whimsical tale about how he saves his town from a magical monster.
