{"id":1354,"date":"2025-05-23T05:00:29","date_gmt":"2025-05-23T09:00:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.readbrightly.com\/?p=1354"},"modified":"2025-05-27T10:51:00","modified_gmt":"2025-05-27T14:51:00","slug":"30-great-lgbtq-books-kids","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.readbrightly.com\/30-great-lgbtq-books-kids\/","title":{"rendered":"30 Great LGBTQ+ Picture Books for Kids"},"content":{"rendered":"

There was a time when LGBTQ+ parents and children had a hard time finding their family\u2019s faces and feelings in the pages of children\u2019s books. No more. Ever since Heather Has Two Mommies<\/em><\/a> appeared on shelves in 1989, more LGBTQ+ books, geared to everyone from the youngest tots to questioning\u00a0tweens and teens (not to mention to their parents), are filling the gap and helping families grow in understanding.<\/p>\n

And of course, these books aren\u2019t just<\/em> for families with a direct connection to LGBTQ+ issues; everyone can use these books’ messages of unconditional love and acceptance.<\/p>\n

no no 9780525554226 Love Makes a Family<\/i> by Sophie Beer <\/p>\n

This book shows that it doesn\u2019t matter what your family looks like, the only thing that makes a family a family, is love! Each page showcases bright illustrations of diverse families doing special activities together, from baking a cake to finding a lost shoe. Your little one will love looking through the pages to see their own family reflected, and of course feel the love your family shares together.
\n(Ages 0 \u2013 3)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780593222768 Families Belong<\/i> by Dan Saks, illustrated by Brooke Smart <\/p>\n

Families Belong<\/i> is a sweet look at the unconditional love within a family. The beautiful illustrations and rhyming text of families singing together, reading together, and going on a picnic together, feels like a warm hug. This one will be a comforting favorite for both children and parents.
\n(Ages 0 \u2013 3)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780593711767 Pride Is Love<\/i> by Dano Moreno, illustrated by Nakul P. <\/p>\n

When a young girl gets frustrated making a colorful flower crown for the local Pride parade, her two dads remind her that it\u2019s okay to make mistakes. Pride Is Love<\/i> reminds us we are all perfect just the way we are and we are all worthy of love!
\n(Ages 0 \u2013 3)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780525580126 My Two Moms and Me<\/i> by Michael Joosten, illustrated by Izak Zenou <\/p>\n

This sweet board book features a diverse array of families with lesbian mothers going about their daily routines, including playdates, pool-dates, and bedtime reading. Published in 2019 with artwork by an acclaimed fashion illustrator, it\u2019s a welcome follow-up to Heather Has Two Mommies<\/i>. Don\u2019t miss My Two Dads and Me<\/a><\/i> by the same creators!
\n(Ages 0 \u2013 3)<\/i> <\/p>\n

9781582462622 Daddy, Papa, and Me<\/i> by Leslea Newman, illustrated by Carol Thompson <\/p>\n

Like the above author-illustrator duo, Leslea Newman and Carol Thompson add their unique touch to the rainbow-family compendium with Daddy, Papa, and Me<\/i> and Mommy, Mama, and Me<\/a><\/i>. Rhythmic text and charming illustrations make these board books a must-have for all families.
\n(Ages 0 \u2013 3)<\/i> <\/p>\n

9780593807859 My Little Golden Book About Pride<\/i> by Kyle Lukoff, illustrated by Michelle Jing Chan <\/p>\n

This nonfiction Little Golden Book shares the history of Pride, from the 1969 Stonewall Rebellion to the creation of the Pride flag and the meaning behind each color. Colorful, expressive illustrations pair beautifully with Lukoff’s message of inclusivity and love.
\n(Ages 2 \u2013 5)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780593659496 I Think We Can! <\/i> by G. M. King, illustrated by Jill Howarth <\/p>\n

Visit the pride parade with this vibrant and colorful book. Filled with anticipation and excitement, The Little Engine That Could travels to the pride parade, but an untimely breakdown makes her worry that she will miss all the fun. Bright colors, simple text, and the familiar character make this story an excellent choice for little ones.
\n(Ages 2 \u2013 5)<\/i> <\/p>\n

9781984815521 T\u00e9o’s Tutu<\/i> by Maryann Jacob Macias, illustrated by Alea Marley <\/p>\n

As T\u00e9o gets ready for his first dance recital, he makes one of the biggest (and most exciting) decisions of his life\u2014what outfit to wear! Even though he\u2019s nervous, T\u00e9o\u2019s parents and teachers give him the encouragement he needs to choose the best costume for his special day. Dancers of all ages will adore this sweet story of self-acceptance and affirmation.
\n(Ages 3 \u2013 5)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780744063172 ABC Pride<\/i> by Louie Stowell and Elly Barnes, illustrated by Amy Phelps <\/p>\n

Teach your child inclusivity, acceptance, and the alphabet in this colorful picture book! They\u2019ll learn that A is for \u201cacceptance,\u201d K is for \u201ckindness,\u201d and O is for \u201cout,\u201d among other lessons. Don\u2019t miss this standout LGBTQ+ primer!
\n(Ages 3 \u2013 5)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780593693988 Papa’s Coming Home <\/i> by Chasten Buttigieg, illustrated by Dan Taylor <\/p>\n

Jojo and Rosie can’t wait to welcome Papa home from a trip. With help from Daddy, they make signs, bake a cake, and pack the car up with all of Papa’s favorite things. It isn’t until after the family is reunited that they realize there is no room in the car for Papa! This debut picture book by teacher and activist Chasten Buttigieg is an affirming look at a loving queer family, drawing inspiration from his own life with husband Pete Buttigieg.
\n(Ages 3 \u2013 7)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780823454594 Tuesday Is Daddy\u2019s Day <\/i> by Elliot Kreloff <\/p>\n

A little girl splits her time between her mom\u2019s house and her father\u2019s apartment, which he shares with his partner. She loves her predictable routine, so she is upset when her mom picks her up from school on Daddy\u2019s day. However, when Daddy arrives with a new puppy in tow, she learns that not all surprises are bad.
\n(Ages 3 \u2013 7)<\/i><\/p>\n

9781536211511 Mama and Mommy and Me in the Middle <\/i> by Nina LaCour, illustrated by Kaylani Juanita <\/p>\n

Most children can relate to this heartfelt story about a girl who misses her mom. While Mommy is away on a work trip, Mama comforts the girl and distracts her with trips to the library and movie theater. But life isn\u2019t quite the same until Mommy returns and reunites the family.
\n(Ages 3 \u2013 7)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780593462515 Family is Family <\/i> by Melissa Marr, illustrated by Marcos Almada Rivero <\/p>\n

Little Chick walks to school with his two moms and notices the different families along the way. Even though they are all different sizes and configurations, Little Chick loves his family just as it is. Charming illustrations and the heartwarming message make this an excellent choice for back-to-school time or anytime.
\n(Ages 3 \u2013 7)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780399558009 Honey & Leon Take the High Road<\/i> by Alan Cumming, illustrated by Grant Shaffer <\/p>\n

Theater and film star Alan Cumming and his husband Grant Shaffer were inspired to chronicle the adventures of their rescue dogs during their dads\u2019 travels. It turns out, Honey and Leon tail their dads and rescue them at every turn. In this adventure, the pups tail their dads to Scotland. But when Honey falls in love with a Scottish dog named Coll, can Leon keep their dads out of trouble all on his own?
\n(Ages 3 \u2013 7)<\/i> <\/p>\n

9780593571828 The Bi Book<\/i> by A.J. Irving, illustrated by Cynthia Alonso <\/p>\n

This sweet book is a study in the prefix “bi,” which often means “two”– bicycle (two wheels), biped (two feet), and bilingual (two languages). Gently, Irving also invites readers to explore the meaning of “bi” in the word bisexual, which is thoughtfully defined as hearts that love in many different ways. With simple text and gorgeous illustrations, this affirming introduction to bisexuality is a must-have for any home, school, or library bookshelf.
\n(Ages 4 \u2013 8)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780593752586 T\u00edo and T\u00edo<\/i> by Ross Mathews and Dr. Wellinthon Garc\u00eda-Mathews, illustrated by Tommy Doyle <\/p>\n

This heartwarming and hilarious story is based on Ross Mathews and Dr. Wellinthon Garc\u00eda-Mathews’ own wedding. Brothers Evan and Andy will be the ringbearers at their t\u00edos\u2019 wedding in Mexico, but they aren’t taking the responsibility too seriously. That is, until they see the love between their uncles. A story of love, family, and cultural identity that’s also available in Spanish<\/a>.
\n(Ages 4 \u2013 8)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780593123638 Born Ready<\/i> by Jodie Patterson, illustrated by Charnelle Pinkney Barlow <\/p>\n

Penelope is a boy. The only problem is that everyone else thinks he\u2019s a girl. This empowering picture book shares the story of a young transgender boy who experiences the ups and downs of being true to himself. Heartwarming and inspirational, this picture book will touch your heart.
\n(Ages 4 \u2013 8)<\/i> <\/p>\n

9780763690458 Juli\u00e1n Is a Mermaid<\/i> by Jessica Love <\/p>\n

This gorgeous Stonewall Award-winning picture book stars Juli\u00e1n, a child coming to understand their gender nonconformity after a joyful encounter with three women dressed as shimmering mermaids. Juli\u00e1n fantasizes about dressing up like a mermaid too, and wonders what his Abuela will make of it in this celebration of self-love and individuality.
\n(Ages 4 \u2013 8)<\/i> <\/p>\n

9780593530061 Kapaemahu <\/i> by Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu, Dean Hamer, and Joe Wilson, illustrated by Daniel Sousa <\/p>\n

This book explains the Indigenous legend of four Mahu (people with both a male and female spirit) who shared their healing arts with the Waikiki islanders. The islanders created a stone monument honoring the Mahu and their generosity, and visitors to Waikiki Beach can still see them there.
\n(Ages 4 \u2013 8)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780593178638 Pink, Blue, and You!<\/i> by Elise Gravel with Mykaell Blais <\/p>\n

This adorable picture book uses cartoon-style illustrations and easy-to-understand questions to challenge gender norms. It\u2019s an excellent book to jump-start conversations about embracing yourself and others, no matter what colors, clothes, toys, and activities they enjoy.
\n(Ages 4 \u2013 8)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780525427544 Our Subway Baby <\/i> by Peter Mercurio, illustrated by Leo Espinosa <\/p>\n

Although Pete and Danny had not considered starting a family, that changed when Danny found a baby in a subway station. They adopted the baby, named him Kevin, and became a family. This heartwarming story is based on the author\u2019s real-life experience of becoming a father.
\n(Ages 4 \u2013 8)<\/i><\/p>\n

9781536213430 Twas the Night Before Pride <\/i> by Joanna McClintick, illustrated by Juana Medina <\/p>\n

Discover the history behind Pride month and how it became nationally recognized with this gorgeous picture book. Young readers will learn about Stonewall, AIDS, protests, and other significant events in an age-appropriate way. It\u2019s a must-read for anyone interested in Pride history.
\n(Ages 4 \u2013 8)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780593623138 Who You Will Be <\/i> by Taylor Rouanzion, illustrated by Stacey Chomiak <\/p>\n

Two parents welcome a new child, introducing them to every color of the rainbow and dreaming about the person they will become. It\u2019s a heartfelt love letter about self-discovery and gender expression from a parent to their beloved child. It\u2019s a fantastic title to read while snuggling your little one before bedtime.
\n(Ages 4 \u2013 8)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780593622841 Gorgeously Me! <\/i> by Jonathan Van Ness, illustrated by Kamala Nair <\/p>\n

Jonathan Van Ness, star of Netflix\u2019s Queer Eye<\/i>, pens a hopeful and inspiring book encouraging children to embrace the most unique parts of themselves. The upbeat messaging and colorful illustrations deliver a timely and much-needed message of self-love and confidence.
\n(Ages 4 \u2013 8)<\/i><\/p>\n

9781682636909 Leo and the Pink Marker <\/i> by Mariyka Foster <\/p>\n

Coloring on the wrong things is a common childhood mishap. This gently humorous picture book explores what happens when a young boy gets carried away and colors outside the lines with his pink marker. It\u2019s perfect for fans of Harold and the Purple Crayon<\/i>.
\n(Ages 4 \u2013 8)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780593381533 Olivette Is You <\/i> by Nico Tortorella, illustrated by Melissa Kashiwagi <\/p>\n

Celebrate your whole child with this gorgeous picture book. Joyful text and beautiful artwork deliver a feel-good message that children will love. The main character, Olivette, tells young readers they don\u2019t have to confine themselves to one identity. They don\u2019t have to pick and choose who they want to be because they are already everything.
\n(Ages 4 \u2013 8)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780399555312 Pride: The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag <\/i> by Rob Sanders, illustrated by Steven Salerno <\/p>\n

Young readers can now learn the momentous and inspiring story of the Gay Pride Flag, created in 1978 by social activist Harvey Milk and designer Gilbert Baker. More than a history, Pride<\/i> vibrantly illuminates the reach and timelessness of the rainbow flag, a global symbol of equality and inclusion.
\n(Ages 5 \u2013 8) <\/i> <\/p>\n

9781524719524 Stonewall: A Building, an Uprising, a Revolution<\/i> by Rob Sanders, illustrated by Jamey Christoph <\/p>\n

Pride<\/i> author Rob Sanders adds another title to the LGBTQ+ historical canon with Stonewall<\/i>, the moving story of the 1969 police raid and ensuing protests that played a crucial role in the gay civil rights movement. Narrated by the Stonewall Inn itself, this accessible and empowering book is an essential piece of pride history.
\n(Ages 5 \u2013 8)<\/i> <\/p>\n

9780744085792 A Kids Book About Gender <\/i> by Dale Mueller <\/p>\n

If you\u2019re looking for resources to help your child explore their gender and identity, this book is a must-have. The conversational tone makes the topic accessible and easy for young readers to understand. It\u2019s an excellent book to start open and safe conversations about gender with your child.
\n(Ages 5 \u2013 9)<\/i> <\/p>\n

9780593523698 Queer and Fearless<\/i> by Rob Sanders, illustrated by Harry Woodgate <\/p>\n

Introduce your young reader to LGBTQ+ heroes throughout history with this collection of 17 short biographies. Each activist in the book is honored with a lively poem, a short bio, and a striking illustration. Anyone interested in learning more about the movers and shakers in the LGBTQ+ community will want to read this book.<\/p>\n

You might also like:<\/strong><\/h2>\n