Children's Books

By: Jules Machias (Author), 2022, Paperback

*An Indie Next List Pick, a Top Ten Rainbow Book for Young Readers, and one of Bank Street Children's Best Books of the Year!*

Jules Machias explores identity, gender fluidity, and the power of friendship and acceptance in this dual-narrative story about two kids who join forces to save a dog . . . but wind up saving each other.

Ash is no stranger to feeling like an outcast. For someone who cycles through genders, it’s a daily struggle to feel in control of how people perceive you. Some days Ash is undoubtedly girl, but other times, 100 percent guy. Daniel lacks control too—of his emotions. He’s been told he’s overly sensitive more times than he can count. He can’t help the way he is, and he sure wishes someone would accept him for it.

So when Daniel’s big heart leads him to rescue a dog that’s about to be euthanized, he’s relieved to find Ash willing to help. The two bond over their four-legged secret. When they start catching feelings for each other, however, things go from cute to complicated. Daniel thinks Ash is all girl . . . what happens when he finds out there’s more to Ash’s story?

With so much on the line—truth, identity, acceptance, and the life of an adorable pup named Chewbarka—will Ash and Daniel forever feel at war with themselves because they don’t fit into the world’s binaries? Or will their friendship help them embrace the beauty of living in between?

By: Ronnie Riley (Author), 2023, Hardcover

Perfect for fans of Alex Gino, A. J. Sass, and Kyle Lukoff this is the joyful and heartwarming story of Jude, a nonbinary kid who knows exactly who they are and decides to create a safe space in their community from Indies Introduce and Indie Next List pick author, Ronnie Riley.

Twelve-year-old Jude struggles with some things: focusing at school, feeling like everything rests on their shoulders, not being able to come out as nonbinary to their old-fashioned grandparents. But Jude doesn't struggle with Dallas, their best friend in the whole world. Their person.

Jude and Dallas's world changes when they learn Stevie, a girl in their class, has been ousted from the popular clique at school. Worried it had something to do with Stevie's rumored crush on another girl, Jude reaches out to see if Stevie is okay. Stevie quickly becomes an important friend to Jude and Dallas, whose unwavering acceptance of her is a stark contrast to the tests and dysfunction she experienced with her former friend group.

As their friendship deepens and the three open up to each other, Stevie's unconditional and open acceptance when Jude comes out to her motivates them to create a queer safe space in their community. Jude has the courage and determination it takes to create the first Diversity Club in their community, but will they be able to find the support they need to make it happen?

By: Ben Kahn (Author), 2023, Hardcover

Ferris Bueller's Day Off meets Gamer Girl for middle grade in this hilarious, heartfelt story about a non-binary kid trying to figure out who they are at home, at school, and in the fandom that changed their life.

All Elle Campbell wants to do is meet their hero, non-binary icon Nuri Grena. Well, okay, they'd like a bit more than that -- they'd like to learn how to do cat eye makeup, for queen bee Casey to stop critiquing their outfits, and for the finale of Elle's favorite show to have been less terrible. But meeting Nuri means the most of all.

So when Elle learns that Nuri is coming to town for book signing on Saturday, Elle is thrilled. It's the perfect chance to meet their hero! Elle's never been happier since they came out as non-binary, but they have a lot of questions -- questions only Nuri can answer.

But Elle's dreams are dashed when an altercation with a surly substitute teacher lands Elle in Saturday detention. Elle is ready to give up until their two best friends come up with a plan to bust them out of school. A plan so outrageous, it just might work.

Yet that's just step one. The kids also have to make their way across town with no money, no phones... and no driver's licenses. But they refuse to give up -- even if that means "borrowing" scooters from elementary school loan sharks, or winning a laser tag tournament with a cash prize.

Comic-author Ben Kahn makes their middle grade debut with this zany, heartfelt love letter to friendship, John Hughes movies, and the power of accepting who you are . . . even when there's no set map for where you're going.

By: Joelle Retener (Author), DeAnn Wiley (Illustrator), 2024, Paperback, Picturebook

Marley is a little nonbinary kid with big anxieties. Crowds? Pass. Loud noises? No, thanks. When their Zaza is up for an award at Pride, they want to go to the parade for the first time with their beloved grandparent. But can Marley overcome their fears? Highlighting the joyful experiences of a queer family of color finding community at Pride, this story features endmatter about the history of Pride, a glossary of LGBTQ+ terms, and a list of resources.

By: Jen Wilde (Author), 2024, Hardcover

A thrilling adventure story that examines consent and privacy in a way that books have not had to before this generation where everything is online.

Nothing about us, without us.

When Paige learns that her parents enrolled her in an autism study without telling her, her world turns upside down. Suddenly she isn't sure if she can trust the two people she oves most. A chip was implanted in her brain that sends them information about her mood, brain activity, and location. It can even boost the chemicals that keep her calm or make her happy. So Paige has to wonder... can she even trust her own mind?

Now the company that created her chip is days away from merging with the most popular social network in the world. And they are known for selling people’s private information to the highest bidder.

Paige knows there is only one thing she can do. Armed with the names and addresses of the other kids involved in the study, she must track them down and tell them the truth, so they can put a stop to the merger and get the chips removed for good.

By: Josh Coleman (Author), Shimanto Das (Illustrator), 2024, Hardcover

"Finding My Rainbow: A Journey of Courage, Acceptance, and Pride" is a poignant and uplifting tale set in the small town in Alabama, that follows the journey of a young boy named Josh as he navigates the complexities of growing up, discovering his identity, and seeking acceptance. In a community where certain truths are not openly discussed, Josh grapples with understanding and embracing his sexuality in the face of societal expectations and norms.

With the backdrop of lush landscapes, from jasmine-scented evenings to the serene hum of cicadas, Josh's story is one of inner turmoil and external pressures, but also of immense courage and the pursuit of self-acceptance. As Josh finds solace in his diary, confides in his supportive cousin Stacey, and eventually opens up to his family, he embarks on a transformative journey that challenges him to confront his fears and embrace who he truly is.

Through Josh's eyes, readers are invited into a deeply personal narrative that explores themes of identity, belonging, and the power of unconditional love. "Finding My Rainbow" is not just Josh's story-it's a call to action for understanding, empathy, and support for LGBTQ+ youth navigating their own paths to acceptance. This book aims to inspire readers of all ages with its message of hope, reminding us that we all deserve to live our truth and find our rainbow. Suitable for readers aged 8 to 13, this story touches hearts and minds, encouraging a more inclusive and accepting world.

By: Joy Michael Ellison (Author), Teshika Silver (Illustrator), 2020, Hardcover

Someday girls like us will be able to wear whatever we want. People will call us by the names we choose. They'll respect that we are women. The cops will leave us alone and no one will go hungry.

Sylvia and Marsha are closer than sisters. They are kind and brave and not afraid to speak their truth, even when it makes other people angry.

This illustrated book introduces children to the story of Sylvia Rivera and Marsha P. Johnson, the two transgender women of colour who helped kickstart the Stonewall Riots and dedicated their lives to fighting for LGBTQ+ equality. It introduces children to issues surrounding gender identity and diversity, accompanied by a reading guide and teaching materials to further the conversation.

By: Michael Genhart PhD (Author), Anne Passchier (Illustrator), 2019, Hard Back

“A joyous tribute to LGBTQ families.” —Publishers Weekly

A must-have primer for young readers and a great gift for pride events and throughout the year, beautiful colors all together make a rainbow in Rainbow: A First Book of Pride.

This is a sweet ode to rainbow families, and an affirming display of a parent's love for their child and a child's love for their parents. With bright colors and joyful families, this book celebrates LGBTQ+ pride and reveals the colorful meaning behind each rainbow stripe in a simple and engaging format for young readers. Readers will celebrate the life, healing, light, nature, harmony, and spirit that the rainbows in this book will bring.

By: Derek Desierto (Author), 2024, Hardcover, Picture Book

Oddbird has always been on his own. And he’s managed pretty well. But that’s changing – now, he wishes for a family.

When Oddbird’s friends plan a big surprise for him, he realizes he’s surrounded by those who accept and care for him. All families don’t look the same, and sometimes the families we choose are where we belong.

By: Gayle E. Pitman (Author), Violet Tobacco (Illustrator), 2020, Hardcover, Picture Book

A loving, affirming ode to parents who are gender fluid or gender nonbinary.

My Maddy has hazel eyes which are not brown or green. And my Maddy likes sporks because they are not quite a spoon or a fork. Most mommies are girls. Most daddies are boys. But lots of parents are neither a boy nor a girl, My Maddy shows how some of the best things in the world are not one thing or the other. They are something in between and entirely their own.

Randall Ehrbar, PsyD, offers an insightful note with more information about parents who are members of gender minority communities, including transgender, gender nonbinary, or otherwise gender diverse people.

By: Daniel Errico (Author), LLC Pixel Mouse House Shiloh Penfield (Illustrator), 2019, Hardcover, Picture book

Bravery isn’t just slaying dragons and rescuing people in distress; bravery is also being true to yourself. Based on the LGBTQIA+ fairy-tale series Bravest Knight on Hulu, The Bravest Knight Who Ever Lived shines a light on the importance of choosing one's own path.

Read how, from his humble beginnings on a pumpkin farm, Cedric transforms from a farm boy to full-fledged knight! Follow Sir Cedric as he faces thrilling adventures, vanquishes fire-breathing dragons, and saves a prince and princess. But the true test? Sir Cedric must follow his heart and choose his own fairy-tale ending.

By: Jessica Kingsley (Author), Jim Milton (Illustrator), 2022, Hardback

'Lovely, lively and informative' JODIE MULLISH

'Bursting with pride' LESLÉA NEWMAN

'Wonderfully colourful and vibrant' GARETH PETER

Celebrate and learn about the LGBTQIA+ community with this colourful book of Pride flags!

Featuring all the colours of the rainbow, this book teaches children about LGBTQIA+ identities through 17 different Pride flags. With fun facts, simple explanations and a short history of each flag accompanying beautiful illustrations, children will uncover the history of Pride and be introduced to different genders and sexual orientations. There's also a blank Pride flag design at the back of the book so that children can create their very own Pride flag!

With a Reading Guide that provides a detailed History of the Pride Flag and questions for further discussion, this inspiring book is a must-have for every child's bookshelf, library or classroom.

By: Nyasha Williams (Author), Jade Orlando (Illustrator), 2022, Hardcover, Picture Book

Book 2 of 2: Ally Baby Can

Ally Baby Can books introduce allyship to tiny change-makers! Perfect for shared reading with an adult.

Ally Baby Can: Be Feminist models how young kids can stand up for women and nonbinary people in the fight against sexism and gender inequality.

Extensive back matter includes important guidelines for allyship, a kid-friendly reading list, and other helpful resources for baby and you.

It is never too early to learn about ways to change our world.

BE SURE TO LOOK OUT FOR ALLY BABY CAN: BE ANTIRACIST!

By: Queenbe Monyei (Author), 2023, Board Book

ABC Black History and Me presents 26 historical concepts, events, and people—from A to Z—that are important in Black American history.

From A is for Advocate to Z is for Zest, each letter of the alphabet is paired with inspirational historical concepts in this 9x9-inch board book. Along with the upbeat, rhyming text covering both well-known and more obscure topics, are colorful illustrations that promote an excitement and curiosity about Black American history. Covering trailblazers from A to Z but also chronologically, this book features a visual timeline with additional information for more in-depth learning on the people, places, and events discussed.

From Harriet Tubman and Fanny Jackson Coppin to Amanda Gorman and Ketanji Brown Jackson, ABC Black History and Me covers more than 170 years in a short board book appropriate for the little ones. This book is not only perfect for getting toddlers comfortable with their ABCs, but also for reflecting on how we are all affected by this history and how even the youngest of children will affect the future.

With age-appropriate concepts and visuals, ABC Black History and Me is a perfect discussion starter for the whole family. Even adults will find something to learn in this board book!

The ABC for Me series presents a world of possibilities from A to Z and everything in between! For all little kids with big dreams, the endearing illustrations and mindful concepts in this series pair each letter of the alphabet with words that promote big dreams, inclusion, acceptance, healthy living, and other key concepts important to emotional well-being. Other books in this series include:
 

• ABC Love (2017)
• ABC What Can She Be? (2018)
• ABC Let’s Celebrate You & Me (2021)
• ABC Bedtime (2022)

By: Joy Michael Ellison (Author), Francesca Ficorilli (Illustrator), 2023, Paperback

In 1969, when thirteen-year-old transgender runaway Flor and her new trans friend Tami try to make their way into the queer and trans community of New York City, they find themselves at the Stonewall Inn on a night that leads to a police raid and violence.