Typically when one thinks of the LGBTQ+ community events, everyone automatically thinks about Pride month in June. But did you know that February is LGBTQ+ History month in the UK? Although it is great that we have Pride month and we take that time to celebrate how far we have come and how things have changed, it is important to remember our history and make sure we take time to teach it to our kiddos. So for this editor’s picks, I have chosen five LGBTQ+ books for kids. These are some of my absolute favorite reads and I hope you will enjoy sharing them with your kids as much as I do.
Julián is a Mermaid – (Age 4-8)
By Jessica Love (author and illustrator)
This is probably my all-time favorite children’s book! A fantastic story about identity, love, and individuality.
After coming across some participants of the Coney Island Mermaid Parade, Julián starts to dream about becoming a mermaid and swim in the sea. So as soon as he gets home he starts making his own costume, just like the ladies he saw. But what will happen when Nana catches him dressing up and what will she think of the way Julián sees himself?
Get your copy of this book here for US
Get your copy of this book here for UK
Pride: The Story of Harvey Milk and The Rainbow Flag (Age 5-8)
By Rob Sanders – Illustrated by Steven Salerno
What better book to celebrate LGBTQ+ History month than one about the story of our very own rainbow flag. To be honest this book should be a must-have picture book in any household!
Written in celebration of the 40th anniversary of Pride, this picture book shows the story of the famous rainbow flag. From its first appearance with activist Harvey Milk and its creator Gilbert Baker to its importance in today’s world.
“You have to give them hope. Hope for a better world, hope for a better tomorrow…” (Harvey Milk)
Get your copy of this book Here US
Get your copy of this book here UK
Stonewall: A Building, An Uprising, A Revolution – (Age 5-8)
By Rob Sanders – Illustrated by Jamey Christoph
As you can see this author is a particular favorite of mine.
Did you know that the first Pride was a riot? Well if you didn’t or even if you did, this is the book for you. Throughout the pages of this book find out about the events of June 28, 1969, when the Stonewall Inn in New York City was raided by the police, and how that night changed the course of history. An empowering book about LGBTQ+ civil rights history that should be in every child’s library.
Get your copy of this book here US
Get your copy of this book here UK
Zenobia July – Age (10+)
By Lisa Bunker
A cyber mystery story that deals with a lot more than what meets the eye. A lot has changed in Zenobia’s life, new town, new school, new family plus the challenges of finally being able to present her true gender for the first time. A heartfelt story about finding oneself, one’s home and one’s family.
With representation in the media and books becoming even more important, this book will make a fine addition to your kid’s library.
Get your copy of this book here US
Hot Dog Girl – Young Adult
By Jennifer Dugan
Perfect for teenagers, this rom-com, queer coming of age story will have you rolling yourself laughing and although not immediately likeable you will end up falling in love with the main character Lou, a little bit more at every turn of the page. She is a chaotic bisexual mess, but that’s what makes her even more special.
Follow her adventures as she tries to have the absolute best, most epic summer of her life….what could possibly go wrong right?
Get your copy of this book here US.
Do you know of any great LGBTQ+ books for kids? Leave them in the comments below!
You may also like these articles from Bébé Voyage:
Children’s Books That Inspire Exploration and Spark Imagination
Motherhood, Bisexuality, And The Fear Of Coming Out As A Bisexual Mom
Responses