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Perhaps your child has asked a question about different families, or you may want your child to be introduced to inclusive titles that present different topics for children. If so, then please peruse DC Public Library's many children's books titles that feature LGBTQ themes and information. For instance, you can try the children's classic picture book, Heather Has Two Mommies by Leslea Newman. Recently released in a new edition, Heather Has Two Mommies tells the story of Heather, who is concerned when she notices that she does not have a father. After speaking with her mothers and with some encouragement from her teacher, Miss Molly, Heather draws a picture of her family, learning through the process that there are many types of families. Image
Similarly, Mommy, Momma and Me (also by Leslea Newman) as well as Mom and Mum are Getting Married by Ken Setterington discuss the dynamics of having a two-mother household. Mommy, Momma, and Me is a gentle book using verse to describe a toddler's activities while Mom and Mum Are Getting Married describes the joy of a family as they get ready for a special day. Our collection also features books with two fathers, such as King and King by Linda de Haan. Image
Not all books with LGBTQ themes have human protagonists; some of the best known (and beloved) feature animal characters that delight their audiences. Uncle Bobby's Wedding by Sarah Brannen illustrates a charming same-sex pair of guinea pigs. Chloe, the protagonist of the story, recounts how her Uncle Bobby marries his beau Jamie. While Chloe is concerned that her Uncle Bobby will no longer be her special friend when he gets married, the text concludes happily, emphasizing family unity and togetherness. Image
And Tango Makes Three by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell is another classic based on a real story of two male penguins from the Central Park Zoo who later "adopted" a child, thus making their family complete. And Tango Makes Three was selected as an ALA Notable Children's Book Nominee and a Lambda Literary Award finalist. Image
The Sissy Duckling, by Harvey Fierstein creates a sympathetic hero with Elmer who yearns to fit in with the other ducks but when his mettle is tested, Elmer finds that his special talents are just as valuable when it comes to saving the day! Image
Presently there are many children's book titles that discuss children who identify with another gender: Morris Mickelwhite and the Tangerine Dress by Christine Baldacchino is a favorite of mine. Morris is teased by his classmates because he likes to wear a dress as orange as his mom's hair, but with creativity and ingenuity Morris shows the bullies that he is proud of himself. Image
10,000 Dresses by Marcus Ewert is another example of a non-conforming child: Bailey dreams of making dresses in every conceivable way but is reproached by his family for his dream. It's not until Bailey meets his new friend Laurel that he feels confident enough to pursue his ambition. Image
DC Public Library regularly does LBGTQ outreach at events like the Capital Pride Festival throughout the summer! We even have a children's book that celebrates this topic: check out This Day in June by Gayle E. Pittman. Funny and colorful, This Day in June will be sure to tickle your funny bone! Image
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About the Author: Erin F.