In my work with queer positive children’s stories as part of Fantabulosa and Drag Story Time I’ve read over 100 LGBTQ+ positive books aimed at children and families, this list is by no means exhaustive but it is a collection of my favourites and covers same-sex relationships, same-sex parents, trans and non-binary identities, gender non-conformity, and celebrating difference. The list below particular focuses on books with a great story, these are the ones I have found best for reading aloud and creating a vivid world.
In light of the current protests and debates surrounding LGBTQ+ inclusive education in the UK, I’m advocating for people to get copies of these books, read them to your children, buy them for family members and friends, and to donate copies to your local libraries and primary schools – they will make a difference, they would have changed my life:
From The Stars In The Sky To The Fish In The Sea – Kai Cheng Thom, Wai-Yant Li, Kai Yun Ching
A beyond the binary beautiful story about a magical child who was born when the sun and moon were both in the sky at the same time so they didn’t know what to be.
The Boy With The Bindi – Vivek Shraya and Rajni Perera
A five-year-old boy becomes fascinated with his mother’s bindi and wants to have one of his own.
King & King – Linda De Haan
A queer twist on the classic fairy tale, where a prince looking for the right princess falls in love with another prince.
The Worst Princess – Anna Kemp & Sarah Ogilvie.
Hilarious rhyming story that presents the idea of not conforming to gender expectations, not having to get married to a prince, and celebrating friendship and autonomy.
The Crocodile Who Didn’t Like Water – Gemma Merino
A funny short story about a crocodile who wasn’t like all the other crocodiles but was something equally wonderful.
Maiden and Princess – Daniel Haack & Isabel Galupo
A strong, brave maiden is invited to the Prince’s royal ball, but she’s not as excited to go as everyone else.
The Boy Who Cried Fabulous – Leslea Newman & Peter Ferguson
Roger thinks that everything is fabulous, Mom and Dad don’t.
Julian is a Mermaid – Jessica Love
A touching story about a boy who wants to be a mermaid, wirth gorgeous illustrations.
Mommy Mamma and Me – Leslea Newman and Carol Thompson
A rhyming book for very early years featuring all the things that baby does with Mommy and Mamma.
Something Else – Kathryn Cave
A story about difference, and accepting people who are different to you.
10,000 Dresses – Marcus Ewert
A story about Bailey, a young girl who dreams of amazing dresses but who’s family insist she’s a boy.
And Tango Makes Three – Justin Richardson
The true story of two male penguins who adopt an abandoned egg and raise the chick as their own.
Introducing Teddy – Jessica Walton
A story about friendship and feeling comfortable to be who you truly.
Pink Is For Boys – Eda Kaburn
A colourful look at the all the colours, free from gender stereotypes.
Adam Carver 