All kids deserve a chance to see themselves and their lives reflected in literature. LGBTQ+ books allow younger readers to see themselves in a fictional world that tends to be cis-gendered and heteronormative. They introduce them to a world that otherwise, they did not know existed, and such books provide non-LGBTQ+ children an inside look at these experiences and the opportunity to learn empathy and understanding toward others.
Here are 10 LGBTQ+ children’s books to introduce to the young readers in your life to inspire diversity, inclusivity, and a feeling of belonging.
1. My Moms Love Me by Anna Membrino
Anna Membrino shares a glowing story about two moms and their perfect day with their child and shines a light on LGBTQ+ moms and families.
2. I Am A Prince by Damien Alan Lopez
A story about the emotions and dynamics of gender diversity in a family, Damien Alan Lopez tells a heartwarming story about a young prince struggling to express his gender identity to his parents.
3. Love Makes a Family by Sophie Beer
In this fun and inclusive storybook, Sophie Beer demonstrates what’s most important and celebrates what makes a family a family, love.
4. Daddy, Papa, and Me by Lesléa Newman
Lesléa Newman tells a heartfelt story about a young toddler spending the day with his dads, showing that there are no limits to a loving bond between a family.
5. Pink, Blue, And You by Elise Gravel and Mykaell Blais
Elise Gravel’s picture book opens the door to conversations and questions for kids about gender roles and stereotypes and a person’s right to be who they are.
6. Téo’s Tutu by Maryann Jacob Macias
Maryann Jacob Macias tells a heartwarming story about a boy named Téo’s first ballet recital. When Téo decides what to wear for the big day, he wonders whether or not being his true self will bring him too much attention.
7. Pink Is for Boys by Robb Pearlman
Robb Pearlman’s empowering and inspiring book reframes the pink and blue gender stereotype and encourages people of all ages to express themselves with any and every color of the rainbow.
8. Different — A Great Thing to Be! by Heather Avis
In this New York Times Bestseller, Heather Avis tells the story of Macy and how she finds her place in the world by celebrating her differences.
9. And Tango Makes Three by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell
Justin Richardson’s award-winning book is based on the heartwarming true story of two male penguins who, with the help of a friendly zookeeper, raise a chick of their own together in the Central Park Zoo.
10. All Kinds of Families by Suzanne Lang
In Suzanne Lang’s book, she celebrates the diversity of nontraditional family structures and enables young readers to see the representation of different types of families they will encounter in the world.
If you’re interested in more books with LGBTQIA+ representation, keep reading here!