LGBTQ+ Books for Kids and Families
The experiences of LGBTQ+ kids and families are captured in this list comprised of picture books, chapter books, and graphic novels. Informational books are also included and span a variety of topics that include gender identity and the LGBTQ+ rights movement. (Updated June 2022)
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Me & My Dysphoria Monster
Picture book: This book can be read aloud and used for discussing gender dysphoria with children, explaining what it is and how they and their families can deal with it. An accompanying guide for parents with additional information about gender dysphoria, terminology, and first-hand examples of the author's own experiences is included.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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Sharice's Big Voice
Easy Nonfiction: This picture book autobiography tells the remarkable story of Sharice Davids, one of the first Native American women elected to Congress and the first LGBTQ congressperson to represent Kansas.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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The Real Riley Mayes
Graphic novel: Fifth grader and budding cartoonist Riley Mayes isn't feeling fifth grade. Riley goes through a series of ups and downs with kids at school but slowly finds her footing as she builds loving relationships and community that allow her to start understanding her identity.
Format: Graphic Novel
Availability: Available
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Sylvia and Marsha Start A Revolution!
Nonfiction: Shares with young readers the crucial story of Sylvia Rivera and Marsha P. Johnson, the two trans women of color who helped kickstart the Stonewall Riots and dedicated their lives to fighting for LGBTQ+ equality.
Format: Book
Availability: All copies in use
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Bodies Are Cool
Easy nonfiction: Illustrations and easy-to-read, rhyming text celebrate bodies of all shapes, sizes, ages, and colors, with different kinds of hair, eyes, spots, scars, and more.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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Calvin
Picture book: Written by the parents of a transgender child, this story is informed by best practices about how to support your child as they come out as transgender. Beautiful depiction of being loved and accepted by family, friends, and community.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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Alice Austen Lived Here
Chapter book: Sam and TJ are both nonbinary middle school students who are working on a history project together. They are writing a proposal for a new historical statue honoring Alice Austen, a lesbian photographer who lived in their Staten Island community. They have to convince their teacher that Alice is an important historical figure even though she wasn't a straight male.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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If You're A Kid Like Gavin
Nonfiction/biography: Recounts the true story of a young adult transgender activist who stood up, spoke out and fought for civil rights after his school discriminated against him. A powerful, autobiographical picture book that is also a call to action!
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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Anne
Graphic novel: A queer, modern day, graphic novel spin on a classic story!
Format: Graphic Novel
Availability: Available
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What You Don't Know
Graphic novel: This exploration of queerness, Blackness, and love is both a call to dismantling whiteness and knowing that you deeply matter.
Format: Graphic Novel
Availability: Available
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