Kids Recommendations
Browse our lists of staff picks, popular topics, and school reading lists.
Kids Book Match
Want personalized recommendations from a children’s librarian? Fill out our Kids Book Match form, and we’ll email you a list of new favorites within two weeks.
Celebrating Disability Pride Month
-
Disability Pride
"This series explores disability in a comprehensive, honest, and age-appropriate way. This book explores disability pride, self-advocacy, and person-first language. Engaging inquiry-based sidebars encourage students to LOOK, THINK, MAKE A GUESS, ASK QUESTIONS, and CREATE. Books are authored by writers with disabilities and the series has been developed in partnership with Easterseals who is leading the way to full equity, inclusion, and access through life-changing disability and community services. Books include table of contents, glossary, index, author biography, and sidebars"-- Provided by publisher.
-
Tenacious: Fifteen adventures alongside disabled athletes
Meet fifteen remarkable athletes who use adaptive equipment in this beautiful and truth-telling picture book.
A downhill skier whose blindness has sharpened her communication skills. An adaptive surfer who shreds waves while sitting down. A young man who excels at wheelchair motocross--but struggles with math. Tenacious tells their stories and more, revealing the daily joys and challenges of life as an athlete with disabilities.
These competitors have won gold medals, set world records, climbed mountain peaks, claimed national championships, and many more extraordinary achievements. Get to know them in Tenacious!
-
I Am a Masterpiece!
Tween actress Mia Armstrong celebrates her fun, funny, beautiful childhood living with Down syndrome in this debut picture book.
Mia likes many of the things other people like--going to the beach, the color blue, drawing. But she doesn't like when strangers stare at her because she looks different from them.
Down syndrome allows Mia to see and understand the world in a way that may not make sense to others. She considers it her superpower--and instead of it making her strange, she considers herself a masterpiece. As we all are.
In this sparkling picture book, Mia offers a glimpse into the life of a child with Down syndrome, helping some readers see themselves in a book and helping others understand those friends, classmates, and family members who are neurodivergent. -
Every Body
Join this photographic celebration of differing physical and neurological abilities from a National Geographic photographer.
We have different ways to move around.
Celebrating children of different abilities, this photographic book presents large, clear images of children moving around their community, using scooters, wheelchairs, walkers, and more. The text presents their experiences navigating the world, from the park to the beach, in simple relatable language. Every Body celebrates children with varying abilities, covering neurological differences, physical differences, and health challenges.
The book includes contributions from internationally-known disabilities activist Judith Heumann whose work is profiled in the oscar-nominated Netflix documentary Crip Camp.
Shelley Rotner, a National Geographic photographer and prolific children's author, applies her trained eye for crisp details in this latest book for young readers.
-
Fighting for YES! The story of disability rights activist Judith Heumann
Fighting for Yes is a picture book biography celebrating the life and work of disability rights activist and icon Judith Heumann, highlighting one of her landmark achievements--leading the historic 504 Sit-in in 1977.
From a very young age, Judy Heumann heard the word "No." When she wanted to attend public school, the principal said "No." When she wanted her teaching license, the New York Board of Education said "No." Judy and people with disabilities everywhere were tired of hearing "No."
In the 1970s, an important disability rights law, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, was waiting to be signed. Judy and other disability rights activists fought for "YES!" They held a sit-in until Section 504 was signed into law. Section 504 laid the foundation for the Americans with Disabilities Act, which was established thanks in large part to the ongoing work of Judy and her community.
Along with a personal reflection from Judy herself, award-winning author Maryann Cocca-Leffler and illustrator Vivien Mildenberger's picture book biography captures the impact and influence of one of America's greatest living activists.
"Cocca-Leffler's straightforward text relates Judy's challenges and triumphs . . . Uplifting and stirring." --Kirkus Reviews
"Illustrations combine gouache painting and digital art to bring Heumann and her allies to life . . . an informative portrait of an under-recognized activist." --Booklist
-
You're SO Amazing!
In this authentic and humorous picture book, a child with a limb difference is tired of being told how amazing he is for doing normal things.
Joe and his friend Simone are practicing their best playground tricks, but everyone keeps saying how amazing Joe is, even when he tries to let Simone be the star. Will he ever get to be just Joe, whether he's amazing or not?
This companion to What Happened to You? addresses the assumptions people make about those with disabilities in an accessible, honest, and funny way. Based on James Catchpole's childhood experiences and written with his wife, Lucy, a wheelchair user, You're SO Amazing! encourages young readers to think of disability the way disabled people do: as normal. -
Come Over to My House
Come Over To My House is a delightful picture book that explores the home lives of children and parents who are Deaf or disabled.
Co-written by disability advocate Eliza Hull and bestselling author Sally Rippin, the inclusive rhyming text authentically explores the characters' various disabilities.
A cast of friendly characters invite friends over for a play - there's fun to be had, food to eat and families to meet!
Come over to my house. Come over and play!
I'll show you around, you can stay the whole day.
We'll swing on the swing-set and splash in the pool.
Then I'll race you inside where my bedroom is cool.
Featuring a gorgeous die-cut cover, bright illustrations and a diverse cast, this is a must-read for all families.
- The perfect book to start a conversation about disability and inclusion with parents, care-givers and children.
- Inclusive text normalizes rather than emphasizes the characters' various disabilities. Disabilities are often only shown in the illustrations, not spelt out in the text. This allows the characters' personality to shine brighter than their difference.
- The bouncy rhyming text is a joy to read out loud.
- Sally Rippin's books have sold over 10m copies globally (across Australia, New Zealand and the US).
- The story falls under three Bright Light pillars: bodies, diversity and character. -
The ABCs of Inclusion
In this picture book about disabilities, meet 26 real kiddos with diagnoses like autism, hearing loss, epilepsy, and Down syndrome. It teaches young readers that it's okay to be different--in fact, it's what makes us special!
Sometimes when you meet a new friend, you might notice they are different from you.
Differences can be confusing at first. But when we take the time to learn about our differences, we might find some special ways we are also the same.
Based on real children with real disabilities, this inclusion book for kids teaches children that our differences aren't a scary thing!
Beth Leipholtz is the hearing mother of a deaf child, raising her son, Cooper, bilingually in both hearing and Deaf cultures. On Facebook, TikTok, Instagram and YouTube, she has built an online community of almost 1 million people to uplift parents on similar journeys and advocate for inclusion and accessibility.
This disability inclusion book for kids introduces children with:
- hearing loss
- anxiety
- autism
- cerebral palsy
- Down syndrome
- epilepsy
- and more!
Elementary school teachers and childcare workers will love using this book to teach children about kids with disabilities with empathy.
We live in a big world--let's make it an accepting and accessible one for our children.
"Every carefully chosen word and engaging illustration highlights the journeys of exceptional children with sensitivity, respect, and advocacy. I am grateful for this work of heart!"
--Lacey Wood, early intervention specialist
"I've never seen a book that addresses kids with different kinds of extra needs quite like this one does. This is a perfect age-appropriate tool to help children learn about friends and peers who may seem different from them, but are really so very much the same."
--Jessica Elam, mother of a special needs child -
I Am Extraordinary
In his sophomore picture book, NBA superstar Stephen Curry encourages kids to embrace the differences that make them extraordinary!
It’s the first day of school for Zoe, a young girl with hearing loss who dreams of playing on her school’s soccer team. But, self-conscious of her hearing aids, Zoe is too nervous to try out. With the help of and perspectives from new friends, what begins as a bumpy, anxiety-filled start for Zoe, soon transitions into an eye-opening experience about what it means to be different—and what it means to be extraordinary. I Am Extraordinary teaches kids how to look inside themselves to find self-acceptance and the confidence to achieve any goal. -
A Kids Book about Disability
"Sometimes people act like having a disability means you're from another planet, even though over a BILLION people in the world have disabilities. So how do you talk about disability? How do you talk to people with disabilities? This book helps kids and grownups approach disability as a normal part of the human experience."--Back cover.
-
I Am Not a Label
In this stylishly illustrated biography anthology, meet 30 artists, thinkers, athletes, and activists with disabilities, from past and present. From Frida Kahlo to Stephen Hawking, find out how these iconic figures have overcome obstacles, owned their differences, and paved the way for others by making their bodies and minds work for them.
These short biographies tell the stories of people who have faced unique challenges that have not stopped them from becoming trailblazers, innovators, advocates, and makers. Each person is a leading figure in their field, be it sports, science, math, art, breakdancing, or the world of pop.
Challenge your preconceptions of disability and mental health with the eye-opening stories of these remarkable people:
Ludwig van Beethoven, Gustav Kirchoff, Henri Matisse, Eliza Suggs, Helen Keller,
Frida Kahlo, John Nash, Stephen Hawking, Temple Grandin, Stevie Wonder, Nabil Shaban, Terry Fox,
Peter Dinklage, Wanda Diaz Merced, Emmanuel Ofosu Yeboah, Dr Victor Pineda, Farida Bedwei, Stella Young, Lady Gaga, Arunima Sinha, Naoki Higashida, Isabella Spingmuhl Tejada, Aaron Philip, Catalina Devandas Aguilar, Redouan Ait Chitt, Jonas Jacobsson, Trischa Zorn, Ade Adepitan, and Nick Jonas. -
Rolling Warrior
As featured in the Oscar-nominated documentary Crip Camp, and for readers of I Am Malala, one of the most influential disability rights activists in US history tells her story of fighting to belong.
“If I didn’t fight, who would?”
Judy Heumann was only 5 years old when she was first denied her right to attend school. Paralyzed from polio and raised by her Holocaust-surviving parents in New York City, Judy had a drive for equality that was instilled early in life.
In this young readers’ edition of her acclaimed memoir, Being Heumann, Judy shares her journey of battling for equal access in an unequal world—from fighting to attend grade school after being described as a “fire hazard” because of her wheelchair, to suing the New York City school system for denying her a teacher’s license because of her disability. Judy went on to lead 150 disabled people in the longest sit-in protest in US history at the San Francisco Federal Building. Cut off from the outside world, the group slept on office floors, faced down bomb threats, and risked their lives to win the world’s attention and the first civil rights legislation for disabled people.
Judy’s bravery, persistence, and signature rebellious streak will speak to every person fighting to belong and fighting for social justice. -
Not So Different
Not So Different offers a humorous, relatable, and refreshingly honest glimpse into Shane Burcaw’s life. Shane tackles many of the mundane and quirky questions that he’s often asked about living with a disability, and shows readers that he’s just as approachable, friendly, and funny as anyone else.
Shane Burcaw was born with a rare disease called spinal muscular atrophy, which hinders his muscles’ growth. As a result, his body hasn’t grown bigger and stronger as he’s gotten older—it’s gotten smaller and weaker instead. This hasn’t stopped him from doing the things he enjoys (like eating pizza and playing sports and video games) with the people he loves, but it does mean that he routinely relies on his friends and family for help with everything from brushing his teeth to rolling over in bed.
A Chicago Public Library Best Book of 2017 -
I Will Dance
This poetic and uplifting picture book illustrated by the #1 New York Times bestselling illustrator of We Are the Gardeners by Joanna Gaines follows a young girl born with cerebral palsy as she pursues her dream of becoming a dancer.
Like many young girls, Eva longs to dance. But unlike many would-be dancers, Eva has cerebral palsy. She doesn’t know what dance looks like for someone who uses a wheelchair.
Then Eva learns of a place that has created a class for dancers of all abilities. Her first movements in the studio are tentative, but with the encouragement of her instructor and fellow students, Eva becomes more confident. Eva knows she’s found a place where she belongs. At last her dream of dancing has come true. -
Hello Goodbye Dog
For Zara’s dog, Moose, nothing is more important than being with his favorite girl. So when Zara has to go to school, WHOOSH, Moose escapes and rushes to her side.
Hello, Moose!
Unfortunately, dogs aren’t allowed at school and Moose has to go back home.
Goodbye, Moose.
But Moose can’t be held back for long. Through a series of escalating escapes, this loyal dog always finds her way back to Zara, and with a little bit of training and one great idea, the two friends find a way to be together all day long. -
A Sporting Chance
Telling the inspiring human story behind the creation of the Paralympics, this young readers biography artfully combines archival photos, full-color illustrations, and a riveting narrative to honor the life of Ludwig Guttmann, whose work profoundly changed so many lives.
Dedicating his life to helping patients labeled "incurables," Ludwig Guttmann fought for the rights of paraplegics to live a full life. The young doctor believed--and eventually proved--that physical movement is key to healing, a discovery that led him to create the first Paralympic Games.
Told with moving text and lively illustrations, and featuring the life stories of athletes from the Paralympic Games Ludwig helped create, this story of the man who saved lives through sports will inspire readers of all backgrounds. -
We Want to Go to School!
A Junior Library Guild Selection February 2022
There was a time in the United States when millions of children with disabilities weren't allowed to go to public school. But in 1971, seven kids and their families wanted to do something about it. They knew that every child had a right to an equal education, so they went to court to fight for that right. The case Mills v. Board of Education of the District of Columbia led to laws ensuring children with disabilities would receive a free, appropriate public education. Told in the voice of Janine Leffler, one of the millions of kids who went to school because of these laws, this book shares the true story of this landmark case. -
Rescue & Jessica
A 2019 Schneider Family Book Award Winner
Based on a real-life partnership, the heartening story of the love and teamwork between a girl and her service dog will illuminate and inspire.
Rescue thought he'd grow up to be a Seeing Eye dog -- it's the family business, after all. When he gets the news that he's better suited to being a service dog, he's worried that he's not up to the task. Then he meets Jessica, a girl whose life is turning out differently than the way she'd imagined it, too. Now Jessica needs Rescue by her side to help her accomplish everyday tasks. And it turns out that Rescue can help Jessica see after all: a way forward, together, one step at a time. An endnote from the authors tells more about the training and extraordinary abilities of service dogs, particularly their real-life best friend and black lab, Rescue.
-
A Boy And A Jaguar
2015 Schneider Family Book Award Winner
* "A candid and deeply resonant account of a hard-fought battle against societal stigma, and an embrace of one's true talent and calling." —Publisher's Weekly, starred review
Speaking for the animals he loves gives one boy’s life hope, purpose, and truth in this gorgeous picture book autobiography.
Alan loves animals, but the great cat house at the Bronx Zoo makes him sad. Why are they all alone in empty cages? Are they being punished? More than anything, he wants to be their champion—their voice—but he stutters uncontrollably.
Except when he talks to animals…then he is fluent.
Follow the life of the man Time Magazine calls, "the Indiana Jones of wildlife conservation" as he searches for his voice and fulfills a promise to speak for animals, and people, who cannot speak for themselves. This real-life story with tender illustrations by Catia Chien explores truths not defined by the spoken word.
Publishers Weekly Best Book
Ezra Jack Keats New Writer Honor
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People 2015
Winner of the 2015 Sigurd F. Olson Nature Writing Award
2015 Green Earth Book Honor book -
El Deafo
A 2015 Newbery Honor Book & New York Times bestseller!
Going to school and making new friends can be tough. But going to school and making new friends while wearing a bulky hearing aid strapped to your chest? That requires superpowers! In this funny, poignant graphic novel memoir, author/illustrator Cece Bell chronicles her hearing loss at a young age and her subsequent experiences with the Phonic Ear, a very powerful—and very awkward—hearing aid.
The Phonic Ear gives Cece the ability to hear—sometimes things she shouldn’t—but also isolates her from her classmates. She really just wants to fit in and find a true friend, someone who appreciates her as she is. After some trouble, she is finally able to harness the power of the Phonic Ear and become “El Deafo, Listener for All.” And more importantly, declare a place for herself in the world and find the friend she’s longed for. -
Meeting Mimi
Book Features:
• 24 pages, 7 3⁄4 inches x 7 3⁄4 inches
• Ages 4-8, PreK-Grade 2 leveled readers
• Simple, easy-to-read pages with illustrations
• Features vocabulary and post-reading activities
• Includes reading and teaching tipsIntroduce your child to the magic of reading, friendship, and inclusion with Meeting Mimi: A Story About Different Abilities. The 24-page book features pictures and simple language to practice early reading comprehension skills.
Hands-On Reading Adventure: Mimi is new at school, and everyone is excited to get to know her! Join Mimi’s classmates as they learn about her different abilities, appreciate diversity, and most of all—make a new friend.
Features: More than just an engaging story about friendship and inclusion, this kids book also includes a vocabulary list, reading and teaching tips for mid-story interaction and engagement, and fun, end-of-reading activities.
Leveled Books: Vibrant illustrations and leveled text work together to engage readers and promote reading comprehension skills. This leveled book engages PreK—second graders with new vocabulary and high-interest topics like making friends at school.
Why Rourke Educational Media: Since 1980, Rourke Publishing Company has specialized in publishing engaging and diverse non-fiction and fiction books for children in a wide range of subjects that support reading success on a level that has no limits.
-
Lucas at the Paralympics
Introduce your child to the Paralympics--where physically disabled world-class athletes exemplify strength, determination, and courage.
Lucas and Eddie, two physically disabled friends, visit the Paralympics and cheer on blind and physically challenged athletes as they compete in running, swimming, sitting volleyball, para archery, wheelchair fencing, wheelchair basketball, and more.
Readers learn about some of the rules that expedite play and that even the playing field. For example, blind runners wear blindfolds so none of the competitors (some totally blind and some with limited sight) have an unfair advantage. Also, all of the blind competitors are tethered to guides.
Author Igor Plohl, who lost the use of his legs after a spinal injury, is a teacher and passionate advocate for raising awareness of physical disability. As a teacher, he knows the questions children ask and how to answer them.
A CBC/NCSS Notable Social Studies Trade Book -
Emmanuel's Dream
Emmanuel Ofosu Yeboah's inspiring true story--which was turned into a film, Emmanuel's Gift, narrated by Oprah Winfrey--is nothing short of remarkable.
Born in Ghana, West Africa, with one deformed leg, he was dismissed by most people--but not by his mother, who taught him to reach for his dreams. As a boy, Emmanuel hopped to school more than two miles each way, learned to play soccer, left home at age thirteen to provide for his family, and, eventually, became a cyclist. He rode an astonishing four hundred miles across Ghana in 2001, spreading his powerful message: disability is not inability. Today, Emmanuel continues to work on behalf of the disabled.
Thompson's lyrical prose and Qualls's bold collage illustrations offer a powerful celebration of triumphing over adversity.
Includes an author's note with more information about Emmanuel's charity. -
All the Way to the Top
2021 Schneider Family Book Award Young Children's Honor Book (American Library Association)
Experience the true story of lifelong activist Jennifer Keelan-Chaffins and her participation in the Capitol Crawl in this inspiring autobiographical picture book. This beautifully illustrated story includes a foreword from Jennifer and backmatter detailing her life and the history of the disability rights movement.
This is the story of a little girl who just wanted to go, even when others tried to stop her.
Jennifer Keelan was determined to make a change--even if she was just a kid. She never thought her wheelchair could slow her down, but the way the world around her was built made it hard to do even simple things. Like going to school, or eating lunch in the cafeteria.
Jennifer knew that everyone deserves a voice! Then the Americans with Disabilities Act, a law that would make public spaces much more accessible to people with disabilities, was proposed to Congress. And to make sure it passed, Jennifer went to the steps of the Capitol building in Washington DC to convince them.
And, without her wheelchair, she climbed.
ALL THE WAY TO THE TOP!
A Rise: A Feminist Book Project Nominee
A Junior Library Guild SelectionAll the Way to the Top is perfect for:
- Elementary school teachers looking for books to supplement disability rights curriculum and the history of the ADA (find a free Common-Core Aligned Educator Guide at www.sourcebooks.com)
- Parents looking for social justice picture books, books on activism and for young activists, and inspiring books for girls
- Parents, teachers, librarians, and guardians looking for beautifully illustrated, inspirational and educational books for young readers in their life
-
Roll with It
“A big-hearted story that’s as sweet as it is awesome.” —R.J. Palacio, author of Wonder
“An honest, emotionally rich take on disability, family, and growing up.” —Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
In the tradition of Wonder and Out of My Mind, this big-hearted middle grade debut tells the story of an irrepressible girl with cerebral palsy whose life takes an unexpected turn when she moves to a new town.
Ellie’s a girl who tells it like it is. That surprises some people, who see a kid in a wheelchair and think she’s going to be all sunshine and cuddles. The thing is, Ellie has big dreams: She might be eating Stouffer’s for dinner, but one day she’s going to be a professional baker. If she’s not writing fan letters to her favorite celebrity chefs, she’s practicing recipes on her well-meaning, if overworked, mother.
But when Ellie and her mom move so they can help take care of her ailing grandpa, Ellie has to start all over again in a new town at a new school. Except she’s not just the new kid—she’s the new kid in the wheelchair who lives in the trailer park on the wrong side of town. It all feels like one challenge too many, until Ellie starts to make her first-ever friends. Now she just has to convince her mom that this town might just be the best thing that ever happened to them! -
Fish in a Tree
"Fans of R.J. Palacio's Wonder will appreciate this feel-good story of friendship and unconventional smarts." --Kirkus Reviews
Ally has been smart enough to fool a lot of smart people. Every time she lands in a new school, she is able to hide her inability to read by creating clever yet disruptive distractions. She is afraid to ask for help; after all, how can you cure dumb? However, her newest teacher Mr. Daniels sees the bright, creative kid underneath the trouble maker. With his help, Ally learns not to be so hard on herself and that dyslexia is nothing to be ashamed of. As her confidence grows, Ally feels free to be herself and the world starts opening up with possibilities. She discovers that there's a lot more to her--and to everyone--than a label, and that great minds don't always think alike.
The author of the beloved One for the Murphys gives readers an emotionally-charged, uplifting novel that will speak to anyone who's ever thought there was something wrong with them because they didn't fit in. This paperback edition includes The Sketchbook of Impossible Things and discussion questions.
A New York Times Bestseller
* "Unforgettable and uplifting."--School Library Connection, starred review
* "Offering hope to those who struggle academically and demonstrating that a disability does not equal stupidity, this is as unique as its heroine."--Booklist, starred review
* "Mullaly Hunt again paints a nuanced portrayal of a sensitive, smart girl struggling with circumstances beyond her control." --School Library Journal, starred review
-
This Kid Can Fly: It's About Ability (NOT Disability)
"At once beautiful and heartbreaking, Aaron Philip found a way to make me laugh even as I choked up, found a way to bring on my empathy without ever allowing me to feel sorry for him. An eye-opening debut." —Jacqueline Woodson, National Book Award winner and Newbery Honor author of Brown Girl Dreaming
In this heartbreaking and ultimately uplifting memoir, Aaron Philip, a fourteen-year-old boy with cerebral palsy, shows how he isn't defined so much by his disability as he is by his abilities.
Written with award-winning author Tonya Bolden, This Kid Can Fly chronicles Aaron's extraordinary journey from happy baby in Antigua to confident teen artist in New York City. His honest, often funny stories of triumph—despite physical difficulties, poverty, and other challenges—are as inspiring as they are eye-opening.
Includes photos and original illustrations from Aaron's personal collection.
Read With Pride
-
The Meaning of Pride
A vibrant ode to the culture and achievements of the LGBTQ+ community, The Meaning of Pride, written by Rosiee Thor and illustrated by Sam Kirk, celebrates the beauty, significance, and many dimensions of the concept of Pride as celebrated by millions of people around the world!
Every year in June, we celebrate Pride! But what does Pride mean? And how do you celebrate it?
This inspiring celebration of the LGBTQ+ community throughout history and today shows young readers that there are many ways to show your pride and make a difference.
Whether you want to be an activist or an athlete, a poet or a politician, a designer or a drag queen, you can show your pride just by being you! -
Pride Puppy!
★"[A] sheer delight and will be a welcome addition to shelves everywhere. Highly--and proudly--recommended." --Kirkus Reviews, starred review
★ "This engaging introduction to Pride parades for the youngest readers successfully testifies to the warmth and power of queer community." --Publishers Weekly, starred review
A young child and their family are having a wonderful time together celebrating Pride Day--meeting up with Grandma, making new friends and eating ice cream. But then something terrible happens: their dog gets lost in the parade! Luckily, there are lots of people around to help reunite the pup with his family.
This rhyming alphabet book tells a lively story, with rich, colorful illustrations that will have readers poring over every detail as they spot items starting with each of the letters of the alphabet. An affirming and inclusive book that offers a joyful glimpse of a Pride parade and the vibrant community that celebrates this day each year.
-
Twas the Night Before Pride
A glittering celebration of queer families puts Pride gently in perspective--honoring those in the LBGTQ+ community who fought against injustice and inequality.
Pride's . . . a day that means "Together, we are strong!"
This joyful picture-book homage to a day of community and inclusion--and to the joys of anticipation--is also a comprehensive history. With bright, buoyant illustrations and lyrical, age-appropriate rhyme modeled on "'Twas the Night Before Christmas," it tackles difficult content such as the Stonewall Riots and the AIDS marches. On the night before Pride, families everywhere are preparing to partake. As one family packs snacks and makes signs, an older sibling shares the importance of the march with the newest member of the family. Reflecting on the day, the siblings agree that the best thing about Pride is getting to be yourself. Debut author Joanna McClintick and Pura Belpré Award-winning author-illustrator Juana Medina create a new classic that pays homage to the beauty of families of all compositions--and of all-inclusive love.
-
Rainbow
A must-have primer for young readers and a great gift for pride events and throughout the year, beautiful colors all together make a rainbow in Rainbow: A First Book of Pride. This is a sweet ode to rainbow families, and an affirming display of a parent's love for their child and a child's love for their parents. With bright colors and joyful families, this book celebrates LGBTQ+ pride and reveals the colorful meaning behind each rainbow stripe. Readers will celebrate the life, healing, light, nature, harmony, and spirit that the rainbows in this book will bring.
-
People of Pride
What do Frank Ocean, Sally Ride, George Takei, and Sharice Davids all have in common? They're all proud LGBTQ Americans! Featuring people from a variety of occupations and backgrounds, this collection of 25 short biographies demonstrates the diversity, accomplishments, and pride within the American LGBTQ community.
-
They, She, He Easy as ABC
Inclusive pronouns are learned alongside the alphabet in this joyously illustrated take on the classic ABC book.
They, She, He easy as ABC shows that including everyone is all part of the dance. It's easy. It's fundamental. As the dance begins the kids proclaim, "No one left out and everyone free," in a sing-song rhyme about inclusion. This sets the stage for readers to meet 26 kids showing us their dance moves.
"Ari loves to arabesque. They hold their pose with ease.
Brody is a break dancer. Brody loves to freeze."Fast-paced rhyming keeps the flow of text upbeat and rhythmic, and naturally models how to use a wide range of pronouns. There's no room for stereotypes on THIS dance floor with spirited imagery that keeps names, clothes, hair and behavior fresh and diverse. The combination creates a playful and effortless practice to expand ideas about gender while learning the alphabet and makes being inclusive as easy as A-B-C.
This book continues the work started in They She He Me: Free to Be!, also by Maya & Matthew, and what School Library Journal called "a gorgeous and much-needed picture book about pronouns and gender fluidity." Both books provide a way to build on gender inclusive practices, and help interrupt the formalization of gender stereotypes and assumptions.
-
LGBTQ+ Rights
Learn all about LGBTQ+ activism, from gender-neutral bathrooms to legalizing same-sex marriage. Get a global look at the history of the movement, meet the activists involved, and celebrate some of the legal victories! Each chapters end with a call to action, so kids can feel inspired to get involved in their own communities. This high-interest book is written at a lower reading level for struggling readers. Considerate text and engaging art and photographs are sure to grab even the most reluctant readers. Series includes a table of contents, sidebars, bibliography, glossary, index, and author biography.
-
My Rainbow
A dedicated mom puts love into action as she creates the perfect rainbow-colored wig for her transgender daughter, based on the real-life experience of mother-daughter advocate duo Trinity and DeShanna Neal.
Warm morning sunlight and love fill the Neal home. And on one quiet day, playtime leads to an important realization:Trinity wants long hair like her dolls. She needs it to express who she truly is.
So her family decides to take a trip to the beauty supply store, but none of the wigs is the perfect fit. Determined, Mom leaves with bundles of hair in hand, ready to craft a wig as colorful and vibrant as her daughter is.
With powerful text by Trinity and DeShanna Neal and radiant art by Art Twink, My Rainbow is a celebration of showing up as our full selves with the people who have seen us fully all along. -
My Maddy
ALA's 2021 Rainbow Book List Top Ten Title for Young Readers
Most mommies are girls. Most daddies are boys. But lots of parents are neither a boy nor a girl. Like my Maddy.
My Maddy has hazel eyes which are not brown or green. And my Maddy likes sporks because they are not quite a spoon or a fork.
Some of the best things in the world are not one thing or the other. They are something in between and entirely their own.
Randall Ehrbar, PsyD, offers an insightful note with more information about parents who are members of gender minority communities, including transgender, gender non-binary, or otherwise gender diverse people.
-
Two Grooms on a Cake
As seen on The TODAY Show!
"Sanders tells the tale in easy-to-understand language, sweet as the frosting on the cake. . . . As beautiful as it is informative about this little-known battle in the fight for equality." -Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW
"Their heartwarming story-accessible to young readers-demonstrates that the essential ingredient in a cake and a marriage is love. Cathro's affectionate illustrations-with vintage 1970s' colors and vibes-not only expand the text but also capture its sweet spirit exactly." -Booklist
This is the story of Jack Baker and Michael McConnell and their inspiring story becoming the first married gay couple in the US fifty years ago.
Long before marriage equality was the law of the land, two grooms stood on a wedding cake with their feet firmly planted in fluffy white frosting. That cake belonged to Jack Baker and Michael McConnell, who were wed on September 3, 1971, becoming the first same-sex couple in America to be legally married. Their struggle to obtain a marriage license in Minnesota and their subsequent appeals to the Minnesota Supreme Court and the Supreme Court of the United States is an under-told story of LGBT history. This beautiful book celebrates the love story of two pioneers of marriage equality for all through the baking of their wedding cake! -
Papa, Daddy, and Riley
ALA's 2021 Rainbow Book List Selection
NCSS-CBC 2021 Notable Social Studies Trade Book
One of Bank Street's 2021 Best Children's Books of the Year
STARRED REVIEW! "A must-have...this is a delightful celebration of what makes a family.... Holzwarth beautifully renders the characters in a variety of hues, making the diversity showcased throughout one of the book's defining features and adding to the emotional punch of the story. All of the families look different, but the love they share makes them the same. Absolutely recommended for all children's collections and sure to be a storytime winner." --STARRED review, Booklist
Riley is Papa's princess and Daddy's dragon. She loves her two fathers! When Riley's classmate asks her which dad is her real one, Riley is confused. She doesn't want to have to pick one or the other.
Families are made of love in this heartwarming story that shows there are lots of ways to be part of one. -
Mama and Mommy and Me in the Middle
A little girl stays home with Mama when Mommy goes off on a work trip in this tender, inviting story that will resonate with every child who has missed a parent.
For one little girl, there's no place she'd rather be than sitting between Mama and Mommy. So when Mommy goes away on a work trip, it's tricky to find a good place at the table. As the days go by, Mama brings her to the library, they watch movies, and all of them talk on the phone, but she still misses Mommy as deep as the ocean and as high as an astronaut up in the stars. As they pass by a beautiful garden, the girl gets an idea . . . but when Mommy finally comes home, it takes a minute to shake off the empty feeling she felt all week before leaning in for a kiss. Michael L. Printz Award winner Nina LaCour thoughtfully renders a familiar, touching story of a child who misses a parent, illustrated by Kaylani Juanita, whose distinctive style brings charm and playfulness to this delightful family of three. -
It Feels Good to Be Yourself
Some people are boys. Some people are girls. Some people are both, neither, or somewhere in between.
This sweet, straightforward exploration of gender identity will give children a fuller understanding of themselves and others. With child-friendly language and vibrant art, It Feels Good to Be Yourself provides young readers and parents alike with the vocabulary to discuss this important topic with sensitivity.
-
Grandad's Camper
A Stonewall Honor Book
Best Illustrated Book -- Waterstones Children's Book Prize 2022
"As warm and friendly as a kind grandparent." Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW
"For the hope for new adventures, and the glimpse of intergenerational kindness and understanding, this lovely book should be on every shelf." School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW
Best Picture Books of 2021--School Library Journal
Future Classic Picture Books of 2021--Bookstagang's Best of 2021
"An effective tool for teaching empathy, and the intergenerational bond at the story's center is a heartstrings puller. This picture book, in which a girl helps her grandfather embrace life again following the death of Gramps, may well aid young readers in understanding others' grief." Shelf Awareness
Discover a wonderful grandfather-granddaughter relationship, as a little girl hatches the perfect plan to get her Grandad adventuring again.
Gramps and Grandad were adventurers. They would surf, climb mountains, and tour the country in their amazing camper. Gramps just made everything extra special. But after Gramps died, granddad hasn't felt like traveling anymore. So, their amazing granddaughter comes up with a clever plan to fix up the old camper and get Grandad excited to explore again.
This beautiful picture book honors love and reminds us not only to remember those we have lost, but to celebrate them. -
Families, Families, Families!
A host of animals portray many kinds of non-traditional families.
-
Being You: a First Conversation about Gender
Based on the research that race, gender, consent, and body positivity should be discussed with toddlers on up, this read-aloud board book series offers adults the opportunity to begin important conversations with young children in an informed, safe, and supported way.
Developed by experts in the fields of early childhood and activism against injustice, this topic-driven board book offers clear, concrete language and beautiful imagery that young children can grasp and adults can leverage for further discussion.
While young children are avid observers and questioners of their world, adults often shut down or postpone conversations on complicated topics because it's hard to know where to begin. Research shows that talking about issues like race and gender from the age of two not only helps children understand what they see, but also increases self-awareness, self-esteem, and allows them to recognize and confront things that are unfair, like discrimination and prejudice.
This second book in the series begins the conversation on gender, with a supportive approach that considers both the child and the adult. Stunning art accompanies the simple and interactive text, and the backmatter offers additional resources and ideas for extending this discussion.
Books For Gamers
-
Escape from a Video Game
Young gamers control the action in this interactive new series from the bestselling author of Trapped in a Video Game. With more than 30 endings and an unlockable bonus adventure, The Secret of Phantom Island promises hours of screen-free fun.
Cooper Hawke and the Secret of Phantom Island is the greatest video game nobody has ever played. The treasure-hunting adventure was supposed to set a new standard for gaming. Then, just one month before its release date, it fell off the face of the earth.
Now, for the first time, you get a chance to play the mysterious game - from the inside. As you outsmart enemies, solve puzzles, and explore the island's hidden areas, you'll discover that there's more to this game than the world realized.
Escape from a Video Game is an innovative pick-your-plot story that promises two adventures for the price of one The main adventure builds critical thinking skills by rewarding young readers for solving puzzles and making sound choices with non-stop action and huge plot twists. Once readers beat the video game within the book, they'll get a chance to hunt for every possible ending. Finding all the book's endings reveals a code that readers can use to unlock a secret story online.
Fans of the best-selling Trapped in a Video Game series, as well as new readers, will quickly come to appreciate the page-turning action and to uncover more secrets about the mysterious video game company Bionosoft. -
BenBee and the Teacher Griefer
From the author of Rhyme Schemer, House Arrest, and Knockout!
The Kids Under the Stairs: BenBee and the Teacher Griefer is a funny, clever novel-in-verse series about Ben Bellows—who failed the Language Arts section of the Florida State test—and three classmates who get stuck in a summer school class.
But these kids aren't dumb—they're divergent thinkers, as Ms. J tells them: they simply approach things in a different way than traditional school demands.
• Each chapter is told through the perspective of one of the four students, who each write in a different style (art, verse, stream of consciousness).
• Celebrates different types of intelligence
• A heartwarming, laugh-out-loud novel-in-verse
Soon, the kids win over Ms. J with their passion for Sandbox, a Minecraft-type game. The kids make a deal with Ms. J: every minute they spend reading aloud equals one minute they get to play Sandbox in class. But when the administration finds about this unorthodox method of teaching, Ben B. and his buds have to band together to save their teacher's job—and their own academic future.
The first in a series of complementary storylines, this is an honest, heartfelt book about friendship, videogames, and learning to love yourself.
• Features a distinct and engaging cast of characters
• Encourages even the most reluctant reader to embrace their own "divergent" self
• Perfect for parents of kids age 10 and up who love Minecraft, educators and librarians, middle grade readers, new readers of poetry, and fans of videogames
• You'll love this book if you love books like Ghost by Jason Reynolds, Patina by Jason Reynolds, and Short by Holly Goldberg Sloan. -
Player vs. Player #1: Ultimate Gaming Showdown
In this action-packed illustrated series, four kid gamers meet at a virtual tournament and battle for the ultimate grand prize. Perfect for young fans of Ready Player One and Mr. Lemoncello's Library.
Sixty-four teams.
One mysterious grand prize.
Four gamers determined to win it all.
Welcome to Affinity, the hottest battle royale video game in the world! Gamers can be anything they want to be in Affinity’s high-tech, magical universe—and test their skills in fierce PvP combat. So when Hurricane Games announces an epic tournament with killer prizes, four kids form a team that feels unstoppable . . . but also maybe doomed from the start?
Josh is the tank . . . when his parents let him game.
Hannah is the melee fighter . . . but she can only play at the public library.
Larkin is the healer . . . as long as her family’s not around.
Wheatley is the ranger . . . with a secret that might wreck the whole team.
As solo gamers, they’re good. Really good. But the tournament is a whole new level of competition, and it'll take all four of them to bring it home. Can they step up their game in time for the final match? -
Josh Baxter Levels Up
Video game lover Josh Baxter knows that seventh grade at a new school may be his hardest challenge yet, but he's not afraid to level up and win!
Josh Baxter is sick and tired of hitting the reset button. It's not easy being the new kid for the third time in two years. One mistake and now the middle school football star is out to get him. And Josh's sister keeps offering him lame advice about how to make friends, as if he needs her help finding allies!Josh knows that his best bet is to keep his head down and stay under the radar. If no one notices him, nothing can touch him, right? But when Josh's mom sees his terrible grades and takes away his video games, it's clear his strategy has failed. Josh needs a new plan, or he'll never make it to the next level, let alone the next grade.He's been playing not to lose. It's time to play to win.
-
Power Up
This inventive graphic novel that unfolds online and IRL takes readers from the halls of middle school, to epic robot video game battles, and back again.
Miles and Rhys know each other only as Gryphon and Backslash, and in the video game Mecha Melee they're an unstoppable team. They're the best friends they've got, online or in the real world, and they don't even realize they go to the same middle school.
But real-life wrongdoing blasts their duo into a crater the size of Arcticon. With life online and off a complete mess and BattleCon--and the Every Game Ever tournament--just weeks away, can the boys play their way back to each other?
-
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time -Legendary Edition-
Link must defeat evil at every turn in his perilous quest to help Princess Zelda!
The Legend of Zelda: Legendary Edition contains two volumes of the beloved The Legend of Zelda manga series, presented in a deluxe format featuring new covers and color art pieces by Akira Himekawa.
The battle for Hyrule and the Sacred Realm has begun! A young boy named Link must defeat evil on his long, perilous quest to find the spiritual stones that hold the key to the Triforce, and deliver them to Zelda, princess of the land of Hyrule.
Young Link embarks on a perilous quest to find three spiritual stones that hold the key to the Triforce, the wielder of which will rule the world! Link's plan is to deliver the stones to the Princess of the mystical land of Hyrule, Zelda. But obstacles abound and his long journey has only just begun! -
How to Be a Pro Gamer
Ever thought you could be a contender in the fast-growing world of eSports, but weren't sure how to make it happen? This guide will take you step by step through everything you need to do to become a gaming pro
Got caught playing Fortnite in English class? Fed up with your dad telling you you'll never make a living playing video games? Then this is the book for you How to Be a Pro Gamer shows you step by step how to get into the pro-gaming world. It tells you what you need to play, how you need to play it, and even how to get signed to a pro team. Featuring interviews and advice from the biggest and best eSports players from around the world, reviews of the top 10 eSports games, and a guide to game streaming with Twitch, this is the essential guide to getting the YOLO career you've always dreamed of. -
Clone Trouble
Criminal mastermind Cynthia Cyber has hatched her most devious plot yet. She's created an evil clone of The Gamer called Gamertron to defeat the superhero! Gamertron has the same powers and skills as The Gamer, and a group of digital ninjas is ready to do his bidding! Can The Gamer stop the villains, or will this be the superhero's final fight?
-
The Secret Lives of Video Games
Take a break from the console and discover the amazing origins behind all your favorite video games!
Did you know that Mario was originally named Jumpman? Or that his iconic hat and moustache were created because hair and mouths were too hard to animate? Or that Fortnite was originally pitched as a zombie apocalypse survival game? Or that the creator of Pokémon was inspired by his childhood bug collection? In The Secret Lives of Video Games, you'll read all this and more!
Age-appropriate games include:
- Minecraft
- Roblox
- Fortnite
- Rocket League
- The Legend of Zelda
- Pokémon
- Super Mario Bros.
- Animal Crossing
- Sonic the Hedgehog
- Splatoon
- Among Us
- Overwatch
- FIFA
- Tetris
- Lego
- and more!
-
Sadiq and the Gamers
Sadiq and his friends are starting a video game club at school and planning a tournament for the whole school to participate in, but their teacher reminds them that they also have to have a service pledge, and they are not really sure how video games fit in with the goal of helping others--until a visit to an assisted living home where his mother volunteers gives him an idea.
-
Last Gamer Standing
Ready Player One meets the action of battle royale video games in this middle-grade sci-fi perfect for fans of Fortnite.
In twelve-year-old Reyna Cheng's world, gaming is everything. Professional esports teams are the mainstream celebrities. Kids begin training from a young age, aspiring for the big leagues.
Reyna is the up-and-coming junior amateur Dayhold gamer, competing in a VR battle royale against AI monsters and human players. But despite Reyna's rising popularity and skills, no one knows who she is. Gaming is still a boys' club and to protect herself against trolls and their harassment, she games the mysterious TheRuiNar.
When Reyna qualifies for the Dayhold Junior Tournament, she knows she's got what it takes to win the championship title and the $10,000 prize. It's a chance to make a step forward towards her professional esports dreams and to help her family with the costs of her mother's hospital bills.
But when she's blackmailed and threatened to be doxed by an anonymous troll, Reyna has to confront the toxic gaming community head-on.
With her dreams and the cash prize on the line, it's game on!
-
Tournament Trouble (Cross Ups, Book 1)
An exciting new middle reader series from a debut author.
All twelve-year-old Jaden wants to do is be the best at Cross Ups, the video game he and his friends can’t stop playing. He knows he could be—if only he didn’t have to hide his gaming from his mom, who’s convinced it will make him violent. After an epic match leads to an invitation to play in a top tournament, Jaden and his friends Devesh and Hugh hatch a plan to get him there. But Jaden’s strict parents and annoying siblings, not to mention a couple of bullies and his confusing feelings for his next-door neighbor Cali, keep getting in the way!
Tournament Trouble marks the first book in a planned series by Sylv Chiang, a captivating new voice in middle reader fiction. With sharp dialogue and relatable characters, it chronicles the ups and downs of middle school with a relevant, contemporary twist. Accompanied by Connie Choi’s lively illustrations, Tournament Trouble invites readers into Jaden’s world, and will leave them eagerly awaiting his next adventure.
Look for Book 2, coming in Fall 2018! -
Team Chu and the Battle of Blackwood Arena
A rollicking, action-packed adventure of laser tag and fierce sibling rivalries, Team Chu and the Battle of Blackwood Arena is the first book in a commercial middle grade fantasy series by Julie C. Dao.
Clip and Sadie Chu couldn’t be more different. Popular, athletic Clip wants to become his school’s first seventh-grade soccer captain, while brainy star student Sadie is determined to prove that she can do anything her boastful brother can.
They have just one thing in common: they love laser tag. Like, really love it.
When the Blackwood Gaming Arena comes to town, bringing virtual reality headsets and state-of-the-art courses, they couldn’t be more excited—or competitive. But then a mysterious figure appears and claims to be a part of the game, forcing the Chus and their friends to save themselves from a sinister force lurking inside the simulation. Together, they must fight their way through epic battlegrounds that will test their speed, skills, and smarts . . . but will Clip and Sadie learn that they’re far better off working together than competing for the ultimate victory?
A 2023 CBC Teacher and Librarians Favorite -
Glitch
From comics rising star Sarah Graley, a fresh and funny middle-grade graphic novel featuring a girl who must save a virtual world... and her own
Izzy has an incredible secret -- she can enter the world of her new video game She meets Rae, a robot who says Izzy is destined to save Dungeon City from the Big Boss. How is this possible? And how can she fight for this virtual world when she's got a whole real life to keep up with: her family (though she could do without her mom's annoying cat), and her best friend, Eric. Things get even weirder when Izzy loses a life while inside the game, and she starts to worry about what might happen if she gets a Game Over for good. Meanwhile, Eric has been super upset with Izzy since she's been keeping secrets and bailing on their plans. Can Izzy survive Dungeon City and save their friendship? -
Can You Become a Pro Gamer?
Can you hone your virtual gaming skills enough to make you a star in the world of pro gaming? First, find your game and pick your platform. Then, set out to see if you've got what it takes. Make real-life choices that can lead to disappointment, a future in the gaming industry, or realizing your dream of becoming king or queen of the console.
Wondering What to Read Next?
Novelist K-8 - Find new titles and authors to read. Looking for a book similar to Percy Jackson? Want to read stories about animals? Prefer your books action-packed and plot driven? Let Novelist give you some new suggestions!
Lists
What We're Reading
- All About Eclipses
- Best of Sarah Weeks
- Novels in Verse
- Classics & Retellings
- Our Favorite Audiobooks
If You Like...
- Baby-Sitters Club
- Diary of a Wimpy Kid
- Dog Man
- Harry Potter
- I Survived
- Percy Jackson
- The One and Only Ivan (Applegate)
- Spy School
- Wings of Fire
- Wonder (Palacio)
Illinois Readers' Choice Awards
2025
2024
School Reading Lists