By Meghan Serceki
I recently began working at a bookstore, and part of my job is helping customers find new books to read. The other day, while I was shelving books in the kids’ section, I was approached by a mom who asked me if I knew of any books for young readers that had LGBTQ+ representation. She explained to me that she and her child read books together, and that they had asked her if they could read something about “someone like them.” While there has been more representation in recent years, I realized that the majority of titles that jumped out at me were for young adults, and that most of them involved romance which doesn’t always appeal to younger children.
I decided to do some research and compile some lists of books for different age ranges that represent LGBTQ+ individuals in positive and constructive ways. Books are a great way to bring people together. They can connect generations in beautiful ways as they share intimate experiences and provide hope through difficult journeys and internal struggles. With the holidays approaching, it may be a wonderful gift that makes a loved one feel seen. #weseeyou
George, by Alex Gino
When George’s class puts on a class play of “Charlotte’s Web,” George wants to audition for the part of Charlotte. But her teacher sees her as a boy, and tells her she can’t get the part. She comes up with a plan to not only play Charlotte but to show the world who she really is.
Gracefully Grayson, by Amy Polonsky
Like George, a school play prompts six-grader Grayson to question the boy gender identity that people have imposed on her. In this thoughtful and heart-felt novel, we see her navigating the challenges of coming out and finding solace in being herself.
Lizard Radio, by Pat Schmatz
Lizard Radio is a quirky science fiction novel for young teens. The main character, 14-year-old Kivali uses she/her pronouns and presents as female, yet while they are living in an all-female camp, they gradually realize that they aren’t male or female, but rather fall somewhere in between.
The Moon Within, by Aida Salazar
Celi Rivera experiences changes in her body, struggling to make sense of them. At the same time, her best friend grapples with being genderfluid. She seeks to make sense of the changing relationship with herself as well as with those around her. It is written in verse, giving it a beautiful cadence, and the representation of various Latinx cultures provides an added layer of significance and visibility.
Do be aware, though, that some scenes depict anti-trans bullying, depictions of menstruation, and descriptions of the body.
The Deep & Dark Blue, by Niki Smith
This graphic novel follows the story of two twins, grandchildren of a noble lord, who disguise themselves as sisters when a coup rises up against their family. While waiting out the rebellion, Grayce gets to experience her life as the girl she is, and must soon decide how to live her life as her most authentic self.
Doodleville, by Chad Sell
Doodleville is another graphic novel for mid-level readers. As main character Drew’s artwork comes to life, a wide range of characters present themselves. As they go on adventures together, they accept their gender identities and support each other through various mental health challenges that arise.
These are just a few of many, and I hope to share more in the future. Happy reading!