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Stonewall: A Building. An Uprising. A Revolution

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Stonewall: A Building. An Uprising. A Revolution

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In Stonewall: A Building. An Uprising A Revolution, readers experience the history of the Stonewall Inn from a unique perspective—through the eyes of the building itself. Readers are taken on a journey from the building through its many uses, from stables to the landmark it is today. Through reading this book, readers get to explore the role this building had in the Stonewall Uprising and the Gay Liberation Movement. This book relates to LGBTQ+ history, as it teaches readers the importance of this site for the LGBTQ+ community and the broader struggle for equality.

Sanders, R. (2019). Stonewall: A building. An uprising. A revolution. (J. Christoph, Illus.). Penguin Random House.

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In The Big Book of Pride Flags, readers explore several flags that represent the LGBTQ+ community. Fun facts and stories are told for each pride flag, the communities they represent, and why they are important for the LGBTQ+ community. This book relates to the theme of LGBTQ+ storytelling since it helps children recognize and understand the meaning of these flags, while also providing an opportunity for kids to learn about inclusivity and develop an appreciation for diversity, identity, and expression.

Milton, J. (2022). The big book of pride flags (J. Milton, Illus.). Jessica Kingsley Publishers.

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In this text, readers will explore cultures from around the world and discover diverse gender identities beyond the binary. It introduces terms like Two Spirit, muxe, X-gender, and brotherboys, among many others. This book aligns with the theme of LGBTQ+ literature as it highlights the growing understanding of individuals existing outside of the traditional female or male gender identities. This book is an introductory tool for young readers as it teaches them about multi-gender terms.

Corrigan, C. J. (2024). My culture, my gender, me (M. Butterfly, Illus.). Jessica Kingsley Publishers.

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Throughout this book, we follow along as Molly and her community prepare for a feast at the Intertribal Community Center. Throughout the book, Molly introduces us to a plethora of characters and tells her how she feels about them, all of whom are allies or queer-identifying. This book relates to the concept of LGBTQ+ storytelling since it allows the reader to gain exposure to queer-identifying individuals, as well as having a positive exposure to gender diversity.

Gray Smith, M. (2024). Circle of love (N. Neidhardt, Illus.). HarperCollins Publishers.

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The Rainbow Flag: Bright Bold & Beautiful 

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The Rainbow Flag: Bright Bold & Beautiful 

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In this book, we follow along the story of Gilbert Bake, and the creation of the pride flag for the Gay Freedom Day Parade, better known today as the Pride Parade. It explores in depth how Gilbert was inspired to create the flag from looking at a rainbow and discusses how the pride flag is still seen today. This book highlights the importance of having a flag that represents the reader so that they feel connected to their community and seen.

Fisher, M. M. (2019). The rainbow flag: Bright, bold, and beautiful (K. Kuang, Illus.). The Museum of Modern Art.

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Pride: The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag 

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Pride: The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag 

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In this story, we follow Harvey Milk through his journey of political protests advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. We also get to see the narrative of the creation and importance of the pride flag. This book is imperative for young readers, to introduce them to the history behind LGBTQ+ advocacy. Also, this story serves as a foundation for readers to understand influential figures who were a part of LGBTQ+ history.

Sanders, R. (2018). Pride: The story of Harvey Milk and the rainbow flag (S. Salerno, Illus.). Penguin Random House.

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In this book, we explore the meaning of the term pride and a brief history that led to the creation of the Pride Parade. When reading this book, readers also see the many queer icons, and what pride may mean to them. This book is a powerful tool that exposes young readers to key queer figures and popular culture, as well as allows them to think critically about what pride may mean to them.

Thor, R. (2022). The meaning of pride (S. Kirk, Illus.). HarperCollins Publishers.

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Based on the true experiences of the trans rights activist Gavin Grimm, this story helps young readers identify things that they may be able to choose, like doing a dare, versus stuff they cannot, like the color of their skin or their gender identity. This text is imperative to the idea of LGBTQ+ literature since it discusses in depth the challenges that trans kids face in coming into who they are. Also, it is a valuable resource for young readers to form empathy and a more expansive understanding of trans individuals and the LGBTQ+ community.

Grimm, G., & Lukoff, K. (2022). If you’re a kid like Gavin (J. Yang, Illus.). HarperCollins Publishers.

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This story follows Nikki, a child who is excited for her aunt’s wedding, and even more excited when she finds out she is going to be the flower girl. However, it takes a turn when Nikki realizes she does not like any of the dresses. This alters the way she thinks about the wedding until her father helps her get dressed in a tuxedo. This book highlights the idea of LGBTQ+ storytelling since it highlights what it means to be fluid with clothing. It allows kids to form a deep love for themselves and build a connection to the idea that the clothes they wear do not have to match the gender they identify with. It also can be used for young children who are transitioning to feel more confident in what they wear.

Bloom, A. (2023). Flower girl (J. Wahlgren, Illus.). W.W. Norton & Company.

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Kind Like Marsha: Learning from LGBTQ+ Leaders

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Kind Like Marsha: Learning from LGBTQ+ Leaders

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When reading Kind Like Marsha, readers are introduced to an array of LGBTQ+ leaders while exploring the unique personality traits that make them relatable. Featuring LGBTQ+ figures Audre Lorde, Marsha P. Johnson, Alberto Santos-Dumont, and many more, this book discusses their contributions to LGBTQ+ culture and highlights their global impact on LGBTQ+ history. This story serves as a tool for young readers to gain a deeper understanding of LGBTQ+ figures they may already be familiar with, such as Leonardo da Vinci while learning about new figures who have helped shape the world we live in today.

Prager, S. (2022). Kind like Marsha: Learning from LGBTQ+ leaders (C. Thuesday, Illus.). Hachette Book Group.

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When reading this text, young readers take an alphabetical journey through LGBTQ+ history, using memorable phrases, icons, and imperative historical events. With each letter, readers learn more about LGBTQ+ culture in an inclusive and educational form. This book relates to LGBTQ+ literature for children, as it serves as a tool to instruct kids about LGBTQ+ history in a fun, collaborative method.

Yasmin, S. (2024). The abcs of queer history (L. Kirk, Illus.). Hachette Book Group.

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One activity I would do is create pride-colored beaded friendship bracelets. This art project would aid kids in finding pride flags to which they feel connected. To begin, I would present pictures of various pride flags, explaining the meaning behind each flag. I would then provide the children with a selection of different colored/ textured/ styled bracelet beads, along with string or elastic cord and scissors. After giving the kids the necessary materials, I would then use my time to guide the children as they choose a pride flag that they feel connected to and help them select beads in the appropriate colors. Once done, the kids will tie their friendship beads together (with help if needed). Then, the children would share their creations with the group and discuss the significance of their chosen flag and colors. The kids can then share the bracelet with friends or family members or wear it themselves. This activity guides kids to create a physical item that reflects their identity that they can share or keep.

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Junior High is about two identical twin sisters (Tegan & Sara) as ‘tweens’ starting their first day of junior high school together. It covers topics such as crushes, puberty, and coming out. This book serves as a resource for LGBTQIA+ young readers as a tool for coming out and feeling confident with themselves.

Quin, T., & Quin, S. (2023). Junior high (T. Walden, Illus.). Macmillan Publishing Group.

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How can characters in LGBTQIA+ books help us understand different ways people can love and be themselves?

Why is seeing LGBTQIA+ characters in books important?

How can LGBTQIA+ stories help us learn about real-life experiences?

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Crush is the second book from Tegan and Sara Quin, following Junior High. This story delves into themes of coming of age, friendship, and family as Tegan and Sara face the challenges of being eighth graders while starting to establish their band. Inspired by the twins' real-life experiences, it serves as a valuable resource for kids. This is so, since it helps young readers form a connection with inherently queer characters and gives them a basic understanding of what it means to be queer in middle school.

Quin, T., & Quin, S. (2024). Crush (T. Walden, Illus.). Macmillan Publishing Group.

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In this story, Trinity, a transgender girl, feels upset while playing with her dolls because she realizes she does not have long hair like her doll does. Her mother sees that she is upset and comforts her, emphasizing how unique and beautiful she is. Still troubled by the situation, Trinity's mother visits a wig shop but buys rainbow hair extensions. When Trinity sees the wig that her mom makes for her, she cries with happiness. This book related to LGBTQ+ storytelling as it addresses the dysphoria some kids may experience during their transition while highlighting the importance of feeling comfortable with oneself.

Neal, T., & Neal, D. (2020). My rainbow (A. Twink, Illus.). Penguin Random House, LLC.

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Garlic and the Vampire is a graphic novel featuring queer representation. The story follows Garlic, who, along with her friends, is initially scared by the return of a vampire named Count. Garlic is sent to confront him, and through their interaction, learns about Count’s past relationship with a man. The novel portrays Count as a friend to Garlic and her friends, offering a casual introduction to queer characters for kids.

Paulsen, B. (2021). Garlic & the vampire (B. Paulson, Illus.). HarperCollins Publishers.

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Garlic and the Witch is the second book following Garlic and the Vampire. It is about Garlic and her friends transforming from lively fruits and veggies to humans. This story utilizes they/ them pronouns to describe Garlic’s partner, Carrot, who identifies as non-binary. It serves as a way for kids to understand pronouns in everyday use and depicts the idea of “changing” in a positive light.

Paulsen, B. (2023). Garlic and the witch (B. Paulsen, Illus.). HarperCollins Publishers.

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This graphic novel focuses on a boy named Indu, who grew up on the moon. After being adopted by Dariya and being brought to earth, he struggles with finding who he is in his gender identity, blending in, and feeling “normal.” After some time though, he finds friends who make him feel included and loved. This book dives into loneliness, identity, and the search for connection. Lunar Boy relates to the concept of LGBTQ+ storytelling because it includes queer and gender-inclusive characters who build friendships through their unique identities. It serves as a tool for children to gain a deeper understanding and to appreciate their differences.

Wibowo, J., & Wibowo, C. (2024). Lunar boy. First edition. New York, HarperCollins Publishers.

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In this activity, I would begin with a short read-aloud from an LGBTQ+ centric book, followed by an interactive discussion to deepen the children’s understanding of pride. After the reading, I would engage the kids with thought-provoking questions such as, “What does pride mean to you? What makes you feel prideful? When do you feel this way most strongly? Was there anything in the book that you related to personally?” These questions are designed to encourage self-reflection and personal connection to the concept of pride. After asking these questions and giving the kids space to share if they would like, I would then explain what having pride means for people who identify as LGBTQ+. This activity will help kids grasp the true meaning of pride and start to form a deeper connection with the word.

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Pride: An Inspirational History of the LGBTQ+ Movement

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Pride: An Inspirational History of the LGBTQ+ Movement

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Within this text, readers explore LGBTQ+ history by learning about key figures, and the differing cultural movements while also exploring current events. Aimed at ages ten and up, the book emphasizes that LGBTQ+ history extends beyond Pride Month, highlighting its integral role in the day-to-day lives of people who identify as part of the community. By fostering empathy and understanding, it serves as a vital resource for kids to understand what LGBTQ+ history entails.

Caldwell, S., & Williams, L. (2022). Pride: An inspirational history of the LGBTQ+ movement. Penguin Random House LLC.

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‘Twas the Night Before Pride takes the reader through an LGBTQ+ family preparing for a pride parade. While preparing for this parade, the moms take the reader through notable events and monuments for LGBTQ+ history.  This book is read as a rhyming pattern and allows students to form a deeper understanding of the historical context that the Pride Parade, and Pride in general, is built on.

McClintick, J. (2022). ’Twas the night before pride (J. Medina, Illus.). Candlewick Press.

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In Molly’s Tuxedo, we follow along as Molly gets ready for Picture Day, but there is a problem- her mom picked out a dress she believes will make her look great. Molly, however, feels differently, disagreeing with her mother. She does not like the dress, saying it is uncomfortable, and that she does not feel "awesome" in it. Molly takes this into her own hands and then gets dressed wearing her brother’s tuxedo. This book relates to LGBTQ+ storytelling, as it serves as a great reference tool for kids to form a deeper understanding of gender expression and clothing. It allows the reader to understand that just because clothing is labeled as men's or women's, it should not matter when choosing what you want to wear.

Johnson, V. (2023). Molly’s tuxedo (G. Reid, Illus.). Little Bee Books.

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In Grandpa’s Camper, we follow along as Grandpa relieves memories from his youth with his partner Gramps. In most of these memories, Grandpa and Gramps would go on adventures together to unusual places in Grandpa’s camper. After Gramps passes though, Grandpa does not go on adventures- that is until his granddaughter helps him fix up his camper and joins him in making new adventures. This book is a great tool in illustrating the idea of LGBTQ+ stories since it allows the reader to visualize and learn about queer characters like Gramps and Grandpa as a typical couple who loved exploring. This story introduces kids to queer couples through a casual lens.

Woodgate, H. (2021). Grandad’s camper (H. Woodgate, Illus.). Little Bee Books.

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In this story, we follow along a week's journey as Mommy is away for work. The narrator of this story spends each day with Momma doing day-to-day activities, like errands, school, and playtime. Though, even though she is getting through her week, she misses Mommy deeply. On the return of her trip, the narrator is excited to see Momma and makes a bouquet with different flowers for each day Mommy is gone. This story serves as a tool for young readers, by introducing them to same-sex married couples and queer families. This story also connects the young reader, with the idea of a missing parent, making this a familiar story for them.

LaCour, N. (2022). Mama and Mommy and me in the middle (K. Juanita, Illus.). Candlewick Press.

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It Feels Good to Be Yourself: A Book About Gender Identity

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It Feels Good to Be Yourself: A Book About Gender Identity

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In this book, we are introduced to multiple characters, most of which use different pronouns to express their gender identity. This book serves as a wonderful introduction to LGBTQ+ stories since it allows for all readers to develop an understanding of what the different gender identities are, and the concept of coming out as a different gender.

Thorn, T. (2019). It feels good to be yourself: A book about gender identity (N. Grigni, Illus.). Macmillan Publishers.

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Sylvia and Marsha Start a Revolution!: The Story of the Trans Women of Color Who Made LGBTQ+ History

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Sylvia and Marsha Start a Revolution!: The Story of the Trans Women of Color Who Made LGBTQ+ History

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With the theme of exploring LGBTQ+ history, this book explores the history of Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera's Queer Liberation movement, and the development of an LGBTQ+ shelter (Also known as STAR House), while also exploring the importance of friendship. This, like many other books on this list, allows for kids to develop a deeper understanding of LGBTQ+ identifying activists, who shaped the LGBTQ+ movement as we know today.

Ellison, J. M. (2021). Sylvia and Marsha Start a revolution!: The story of the trans women of color who made LGBTQ+ history (T. Silver, Illus.). Jessica Kingsley Publishers.

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When reading The Boy & The Bindi, the reader follows along as a young boy discovers his love of wearing a yellow Bindi. In this book we see his mom embrace his interest in wearing a Bindi, and instead of scolding him and telling him it is for women only, she gives him context, history, and choice to wear it. This book is a notable example of children's literature that is LGBTQ+-centric since it embraces children outside of the gender binary, choosing to express themselves with what makes them feel confident and comfortable.

Shraya, V. (2022). The boy & the Bindi (R. Perera, Illus.). Arsenal Pulp Press.