Books teach us all about the world, its cultures and most of all, its people. We are surrounded by so many diverse communities and individuals, each with their own stories and struggles. It’s important to educate our children about these groups, especially those that may lead unconventional lifestyles that may seem foreign to us—those who are judged, persecuted, overlooked and marginalised by society. Let’s make this world a kinder place for people who may be a little bit different than the rest of us. Regardless of their sex, size, colour, identity or who they choose to love. In honour of Pride Month, it’s time we strive for a more progressive, inclusive society where everyone is respected and loved. Here are the best children’s books about inclusivity and gender identity that you simply must get your kids to read.
My Shadow is Purple
Written and illustrated by prolific artist and author Scott Stuart, My Shadow is Purple is the recent addition in a series of progressive children’s books that tackle complex issues like gender identity, equality and diversity. In this book, the main character is a boy who has a secret purple shadow; a beautiful metaphor for being genderqueer. The story, conveyed in rhyme, tells us how the boy likes both feminine and masculine things, but that he doesn’t fit into any of the traditional ‘colours’ because of how different he is. In the end the other children reveal that their shadows have different colours as well, showing us that it’s okay to be yourself and not to try and squeeze yourself into the neat little labels that society has created for us.
I’ll Walk with You
A heartwarming book of rhymes, I’ll Walk With You will teach your kids how to truly embrace all kinds of people from all walks of life. Regardless of their age, race, religion, sexual identity or disabilities. The world is often prejudiced and bigoted because we don’t understand other people’s struggles and cultures. This book will allow your kids to see that at the end of the day, we’re all the same and all equally deserve respect and recognition. It’s important that the future generation learn how to love and accept everyone they meet, and to celebrate those differences. Not only that, but to support and hold up those marginalised and disenfranchised individuals. To truly be an ally to the outcast and the misunderstood. And this book definitely teaches you how to do that.
How to be a Real Man
Toxic masculinity is addressed and dismantled in this children’s poetry book about showing our little boys what it’s really like to be a man. Not with guns and swords, but with empathy and compassion. Manhood gets a makeover as the author teaches us that it’s okay to apologise first, to show emotion and vulnerability, and to help other men achieve their goals instead of fighting one another. How to Be a Real Man shows us how men should adapt to the changing times—to fight for just causes and equality instead of over resources or land. And to show strength through charity and kindness instead of through aggression and brute force. If you want your son to grow up to be a gentleman who accepts all his talents and passions while still being respectful of others, then this book is a must-buy.
Not all Princesses Dress in Pink
This children’s book is a powerful portrayal of feminism and female empowerment; a must-have read for all the little girls just coming into their own in the world. Not All Princesses Dress in Pink encourages its readers to break traditional gender norms. To truly embrace womanhood in all the forms it takes. And not just with pretty dresses, tea parties and wearing certain stereotypically feminine colours. After all, just because you’re a girl doesn’t mean you have to do what society tells you girls are ‘supposed’ to do. This book shows that girls can wear pants, ride bikes, play sports and roll around in the dirt. They can build things, fix things and break-dance. This is what being a woman truly means; to chart your own path regardless of society’s expectations.
What Makes a Baby
When talking about gender identity and inclusivity, topics about reproduction and families eventually come up. This book is a great answer for parents whose kids are already asking them the dreaded question: “Where do babies come from?” With What Makes a Baby, the inquiry may just be an opportunity for them to learn more about how unconventional couples and individuals start families of their own. For instance, the Sperm and Egg are portrayed as gender-neutral characters. This breaks the narrative on reproduction away from heteronormative stereotypes, making it a great book for couples who may not subscribe to traditional gender norms.
Her Body Can
If you have a self-conscious child or one who is struggling a lot with body dysmorphia or fat shaming, this book is perfect for them. Her Body Can portrays a chubby girl who is completely comfortable in her own skin no matter what she does or wears. Or what anyone says about her. She plays sports, eats what she wants, exercises, goes shopping and embraces who she is. Warts and all. This is a powerful portrayal of body positivity, which is an important mindset to instil in young children nowadays. Especially in an increasingly superficial society where your physical appearances may be judged way before your character. At the end, the author reminds the readers to never hate what you look like—because your body is perfect just the way it is.
All Bodies Are Good Bodies
In All Bodies Are Good Bodies, your children will learn all about respecting and embracing everyone’s differences. From the top of their head to the tip of their toes. Literally. The theme of this volume is all about body parts. Noses, eyes, fingers, hair, hands and many more. So, your kids will have a little anatomy lesson as well. And the author doesn’t just describe normal physical traits, but also those that may not work like everyone else’s—such as due to a disability. And the characters portrayed in the book also come in a variety of ethnic groups and body types. Truly an inclusive book.
Introducing Progressive Reading Material
Sometimes it can be hard to communicate with children through words. Especially when it comes to complex and nuanced topics like gender, race and sexuality. With these simple, colourful and easy-to-read books, you may just get your message across. They will teach your kids all about different kinds of people, lifestyles and perspectives, whilst also giving them a head-start with their English language skills. So, read these amazing and progressive books with your kids. You may just change the way they look at others, themselves and the world. You may just be raising the next generation of world leaders who will pave the way for a more peaceful, tolerant world where everyone is accepted for who they are, without judgement.
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