Book Recommendations
Check out Jake's favorite read-alouds that cover identity, inclusion, and self-advocacy.
And Tango Makes Three
by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell
In this adorable book about love and acceptance, two male penguins take the zoo by surprise when they make their own little family.
LGBTQ+ Classroom Texts
Peanut Goes for the Gold
by Jonathan Van Ness
Has your child or student ever felt like they do not fit in? Have they ever felt like they don't belong or do not feel like themselves? This adorable book by Jonothan Van Ness features a relatable and joyful story about a hamster who uses they/them pronouns.
Julian is a Mermaid
by Jessica Love
This famous story by Jessica Love tells the tale of a young boy who dreams of dressing up as a beautiful mermaid. This book highlights a story of familial acceptance between a young boy and his Abuela. It is a must have!
Stella Brings the Family
by Miriam B Schiffer
In this book about a young student with two fathers, students are able to see the joy that all families can have, no matter how they might look. This text will help normalize the love of families that look different from traditional ones. Students LOVE making connections to this relatable text!
Jack, Not Jackie
by Erica Silverman
In this text, Jackie's sister Susan wants to play fairies and wear princess dresses. When Jackie wants to cut her hair and play in the mud, Susan finds it difficult to understand. This fabulous story of trans acceptance shows the power of accepting people for who they are and who they would like to be.
Pink is for the Boys
by Bobb Pearlman
Expression is important. Clothing, colors, and styles are not meant to have a gender assigned to them. This powerful book has a sweet message that colors are for everyone!
My Princess Boy
by Cheryl Kilodavis
The story centers on a boy who likes "pretty things" and prefers to wear tiaras and "girly dresses." The story informs readers about supporting children regardless of their expression. This is a great way to help students understand that clothing does not need to have a gender attached to it.
My Shadow is Pink
by Scott Stuart
This moving story about a father and son helps illustrate the importance of acceptance, diversity, and self-confidence. When the boy feels like he likes things that "girls should like", his father helps him see that sometimes we all have shadows we feel like we want to hide. This heartwarming book will help illustrate the power of self-love!
Mommy, Mama, and Me
by Leslea Newman
This gentle story depicts a lovely family made up of two female parents. This small board book brings queer joy front and center as a child enjoys daily life with their two moms!
