LGBTQ+ reads for kids of all ages
As moms, we know a lot, but not everything. To add some Pride Month books to our kiddo's shelves, we turned to the Indianapolis Public Library and their amazing LGBTQ Committee for recommendations.
And PSST: In case these titles aren’t available on library shelves, we’ve linked them for purchase via Bookshop.com. It’s a website that sources books from local bookstores and delivers directly to you.
LGBTQ+ reads for kids of all ages
Red: A Crayon's Story by Michael Hall (ages 3-8)
We love this book because the metaphor is so simple and universal. Even littles will readily grasp the message about being your true self.
Recommended by Sarah Walker, Public Services Librarian
Lumberjanes: Beware the Kitten Holy by ND Stevenson (ages 10-14)
The wonderfully diverse kids at this camp for "hardcore lady-types" have some absolutely charming adventures together.
Recommended by Sarah Walker, Public Services Librarian
Federico and All His Families by Mili Hernández (ages 2-6)
Federico, the friendly cat, bops from house to house and in his journeys, he meets lots of different families. Some have a mom and dad, some have two moms, some have two dads, and some are grandparents but love abounds in all of them.
Recommended by Rachel Priesman Marquez, Public Services Associate
Julián is a Mermaid by Jessica Love (ages 2-6)
Julián is a Mermaid is a gorgeously illustrated picture book about a young boy who wants to be a mermaid. Julián makes a tail and a headpiece from household items like curtains and grandma’s plants. What will grandma think? Well, she takes him to a mermaid festival, naturally! This picture book is an adorable must-read.
Recommended by Rachel Priesman Marquez, Public Services Associate
Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo (ages 14-17)
If you see the name Elizabeth Acevedo on the cover, you pick up the book and you never regret it. Clap When You Land is a beautiful, aching story of love, loss, family, and those who are there for you along the way to help pick up the pieces.
Recommended by Rachel Priesman Marquez, Public Services Associate
The Prince and the Dressmaker by Jen Wang (ages 12+)
Sometimes boys wear dresses. And sometimes those boys are the crowned prince of Belgium. Andddddd sometimes they hire a seamstress to make them beautiful, avant-garde dresses. And sometimes that crowned prince falls in love with the dressmaker and sometimes the King of Belgium wears a dress and crashes a fashion show for a new department store to show his son that it’s okay to wear dresses as long as you are happy. Sometimes a lot of things happen, but when you read this book you will always be smiling. Or crying. Smicrying.
Recommended by Rachel Priesman Marquez, Public Services Associate
Nimona by ND Stevenson (ages 13-17)
If a story includes a hero/villain love story and a shapeshifting orphan, you know you’re in for a ride. This story takes us on the ups and downs of systematic injustice at the hands of an evil, conniving government organization, and betrayal between friends. How do you reconcile your relationship with someone who shot your arm off or cut your head off? Nimona, Ballister Blackheart, and Ambrosius Goldenloin show us the way.
Recommended by Rachel Priesman Marquez, Public Services Associate
I’ll Be the One by Lyla Lee (ages 13-17)
This is a wonderful story about teen Skye Shin who enters a K-POP competition, determined to be the first queer, plus-size K-POP star. Skye is the ultimate heroine, confident and determined to break down people’s negative views and stereotypes to reach her dreams. The author even made a playlist to go with the book, which will definitely get you pumped for Pride month.
Recommended by Shelby Graam-Pavan, Juvenile Services Librarian
Auntie Uncle by Ellie Royce (ages 3-7)
This sweet picture book tells the story of learning to be your true self.
Recommended by Bri Parker, Public Services Librarian
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Pride Puppy! By Robin Stevenson (ages 3-5)
A very inclusive and extremely colorful book that works its way through the alphabet. We think anyone, from babies all the way up to adults, will like to take time on each page to see all there is to see.
Recommended by Maureen Kesterson-Yates, Library Assistant II at Nora Library
The Backstagers: Vol. One, Rebels Without Applause by James Tynion IV (ages 10+)
A great depiction of a group of high schoolers who may not fit in with the crowd but are a close-knit group that are there for each other. It’s filled with diversity and quite a bit of magic that will keep readers entertained and wanting more.
Recommended by Maureen Kesterson-Yates, Library Assistant II at Nora Library
Star-Crossed by Barbara Dee (ages 9-13)
A cute coming-of-age story that addresses the main character Mattie’s emerging feelings for her classmate, Gemma, while also taking note of her long-time crush on Elijah. Not solely focused on her feelings for others, this book also delves into becoming more confident in herself.
Recommended by Maureen Kesterson-Yates, Library Assistant II at Nora Library
Did your family’s favorites make the list? If not, we’d love to hear about it!
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