List of Primary school books
There are a number of great books which are appropriate for use with primary
school children. Use these books to talk about different families and to address
homophobic bullying and language.
1. Difference and diversity:
A collection of books for primary school children which encourage the celebration
of difference and diversity.
Colour Me Happy
“When I am sunny, colour me yellow. When I am funny, colour me pink…”. Small
children will fall in love with the adorable kitten character as they turn the pages
of this colourful, glittery book. As well as featuring a host of vibrant colours, the
humorous illustrations explore a range of emotions with which young readers will
be familiar. To top it all off, there's even a beautiful sparkly rainbow finale!
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Children's Books ISBN: 1405009098
Cock-a-moo-moo
Poor Cockerel has forgotten how to crow - and all the animals are teasing him.
But when the fox come sniffing around, Cockerel becomes a hero.
Age Range: Early Years/Key Stage 1
Published by Macmillan Children's Books ISBN: 0333947533
Friends
“Once I was lost in the wood, in the wood, and you found me”. This melodic text
perfectly tells the story of finding and keeping a friend. Glorious pictures show the
small moments which loom large in a child’s life, so creating a delicate and
exquisite book for all ages.
Age Range: Early Years/Key Stage 1
Published by Hodder Children's Books ISBN: 034065600X
Mister Seahorse
A stunning new picture book from Eric Carle about Mister Seahorse and other
'male mothers', with special acetate pages that hide fish behind rocks and reeds.
As he floats through the sea, Mister Seahorse meets a Mr Stickleback, Mr
Tilapia, Mr Kurtus and many other fish fathers caring for their eggs and babies in
the most surprising ways.
Age Range: Early Years/Key Stage 1
Published by Puffin ISBN: 0140569898
-1-
6/22/2010
Orange Pear Apple Bear
The utter simplicity of this beautiful picture book is breathtaking. By rearranging
just four words, Emily Gravett creates a series of playful images which are a
sheer joy - and intensely satisfying. The loose energy of the pencil and
watercolour pictures will be irresistible to adults and children alike.
Age Range: Early Years/Key Stage 1
Published by Children's Books ISBN: 1405090227
Red Rockets and Rainbow Jelly
Sue and Nick are best friends who like lots of different things in lots of different
colours. Here they show us some of their favourite things from purple hair and all
things blue to red cars and red dogs. The artwork is stunning with each artist
contributing alternate pages in their own inimitable style. And with its deceptively
simple text, this bright and bold book is perfect for children learning to read.
Age Range: Early Years/Key Stage 1
Published by Puffin ISBN: 0140567852
The Other Ark
A fabulously fun new twist on Noah's Ark by master storyteller, Lynley Dodd! The
rain is fast approaching and Noah wants to set sail. There are still lots of animals
queuing to get on to the Ark but it's absolutely jam packed. Noah has to ask his
friend, Sam Jam Balu to take the other Ark and all the rest of the animals. So he
valiantly starts gathering hip-hopping hippos, mad kangaroosters and flying
flapdoodles - not to mention the dithering dingbats and sabre-tooth mice! But no
sooner has San Jam Balu finished his task than the Other Ark is well and truly
grounded!
Age Range: Early Years/Key Stage 1
Published by Puffin ISBN: 0141500182
This is Our House
George says the cardboard house is his and his alone. It isn't for girls, small
people, twins, people with glasses, or people who like tunnels. But when he
leaves the cardboard house for a little while, he comes back to find that there are
some people inside who don't think it is for people who have red hair - like
George. This is a topical and perceptive book that shows that it is much more fun
to share.
Age Range: Early Years
Published by Walker Books Ltd ISBN: 1406305642
-2-
6/22/2010
Together
Have you noticed how being with your best friend makes your day that little bit
brighter? Mousse and Nut love playing together - but can they really be friends
when they're so different? Of course they can! This delightful story goes to show,
it's the 'being together' and the friendship that counts. This book presents a
heart-lifting story with two incredibly adorable new characters from Jane
Simmons.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Orchard ISBN: 1846162882
Tyrannosaurus Drip
Everyone knows that tyrannosauruses are big and scary, so when a placid
duckbill dinosaur's egg ends up in the wrong nest confusion is sure to ensue!
When the baby dinosaur hatches out, he's so out of place that his grisly big
sisters call him Tyrannosaurus Drip. Poor little Drip: all he wants is a quiet life
munching on water weed…
Age Range: Early Years
Published by Children's Books ISBN: 0230015506
Welcome to Lizard Lounge
Lizard thinks that all lizards are the same, until he arrives at Lizard Lounge and
meets some new reptile friends with different names and qualities: Gecko,
Iguana, Gila Monster, Salamander and Komodo Dragon. What kind of lizard am
I, he wonders, and what makes me different? His new friends help him to find
out... A fresh and funny look at individuality, featuring a collection of charming
and crazy characters.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Milet Publishing Ltd ISBN: 1840593903
Who Are You, Stripy Horse?
In the tick-tock quiet, a shaft of moonlight tickles the nose of something sleeping.
It's a stuffed, stripy horse. He twitches. Then an enormous dusty sneeze echoes
round the room. He's awake. So begins this charming story, all about a forgotten
toy who can't remember his name. He is befriended by Muriel (a hummingbird
who flutters off the pattern on a lamp), Hermann (a daft draught excluder), and
Roly and Pitch (penguin-shaped salt and pepper shakers), and embarks on an
adventure to meet Ming, a wise and ancient Chinese vase cat, who is the only
person in the shop who might be able to tell him who he is. Thrills, spills, and
some seriously silly situations await him on his adventure.
Age Range: Early Years/Key Stage 1
Published by Egmont Books Ltd ISBN: 140522729X
-3-
6/22/2010
Belinda’s Boquet
Belinda's Bouquet by Leslea Newman is a story of how a young girl named
Belinda is teased for having gained weight. She and Daniel, both about ten years
old, discover with the help of one of Daniel's mothers and a garden cared for by
his other mother that people, like flowers, are different.
Age Range: Key Stage 2
Published by Alyson Publications Inc ISBN-10: 1555831540
It’s Okay To Be Different
Todd Parr combines rainbow colours, simple drawings and reassuring
statements in this optimistic book. An illustration of two women ("It's okay to have
different Moms") and two men ("It's okay to have different Dads") handles diverse
families sensitively this could cover either same-sex families or stepfamilies and
also on the opposite page, a kangaroo with a dog in its pouch ("It's okay to be
adopted"). Suitable for all ages.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Little Brown and Company ISBN: 0316666033
Priscilla and the Pink Planet
Reminiscent of Dr. Seuss and Hilary Knight, here is a clever read-aloud about a
little girl who lives on a planet where everything is pink. Priscilla dreams of seeing
the world in other colors and ends up teaching the Great Queen of Pink that
diversity leads to true beauty. Priscilla's story is told in lyrical verse and young
girls will enjoy reading her pink planet adventure aloud.
Age Range: Key Stage 1/2
Published by Little, Brown Young Readers ISBN: 0316735795
The Boy Who Cried Fabulous
Roger is "different" much to his parents' dismay, until he teaches them just how
fabulous being different can be!
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Tricycle Press ISBN: 1582462240
Saturday is Pattyday
Newman tells a story of how a child feels when his two mommies separate and
break up the family. As in any divorce, Frankie feels upset and anxious when
Patty, his "other mom," moves into her own apartment. The first time he visits her
and they picnic in the park, he cries and talks about his fears. "I'm scared. I don't
want to get divorced," he says. Patty hugs him and reassures him that she will
always, always, always be his mom. "Only grown-ups get divorced. Not kids,"
she says. From now on, he will visit her every week--Saturday is Pattyday.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by New Victoria Publishers ISBN-10: 0934678510
-4-
6/22/2010
The Different Dragon
This bedtime story about bedtime stories shows how the wonderful care and
curiosity of a little boy, with some help from his willing moms, can lead to magical
and unexpected places. Join Noah and his cat, Diva, on this nighttime adventure
and you too will leave with an unforgettable new dragon friend!
The Different Dragon is published by Two Lives Publishing, the only publisher of
children's books expressly intended for kids in LGBT families
(www.twolives.com). Their mission is to publish and distribute books of integrity,
depicting children, families and friends in positive, loving ways in picture books
and stories.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Two Lives ISBN: 0967446864
The Duke who put a Tax on Jelly Beans And Other Stories
A collection of Fairy tales including families of all different types
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Alyson Books ISBN-10: 1555838472
The Family Book
There are so many different types of families, and THE FAMILY BOOK
celebrates them all in a funny, silly, and reassuring way. Parr includes adopted
families, step-families, one-parent families, and families with two parents of the
same sex, as well as the traditional nuclear family. His quirky humor and bright,
childlike illustrations will make children feel good about their families. Parents
and teachers can use this book to encourage children to talk about their families
and the different kinds of families that exist.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Little Brown and Company ISBN: 0316738964
The Story of Ferdinand
Ferdinand is a little bull who much prefers sitting quietly under a cork tree-- just
smelling the flowers--to jumping around, snorting, and butting heads with other
bulls. This cow is no coward--he simply has his pacifist priorities clear. As
Ferdinand grows big and strong, his temperament remains mellow, until the day
he meets with the wrong end of a bee. In a show of bovine irony, the one day
Ferdinand is most definitely not sitting quietly under the cork tree (due to a
frightful sting), is the selfsame day that five men come to choose the "biggest,
fastest, roughest bull" for the bullfights in Madrid.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Puffin ISBN-10: 0142409529
-5-
6/22/2010
Something Else
This is a simple story about a creature called Something Else who is excluded
from his neighbour's activities because he behaves and looks different. But then
when an even stranger creature tries to make friends with Something Else, he
doesn't want to know, until he sees himself in the mirror.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Puffin Books ISBN: 0140549072
2. Emotional literacy
Aaaarrgghh, Spider!
All Spider wants is to be a family pet. But the family whose house he lives in are
terrified of him. Whenever he tries to show them what a great pet he would make,
they simply cry, 'Aaaarrgghh, Spider!'. Themes of tolerance and
misunderstanding make key discussion points for children in this book.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Egmont Books Ltd ISBN: 1405210443
Frog in Love
Frog is worried about his health: His heart is beating too fast. His friend Hare
says that he must be in love - but who is he in love with? This important book
deals not only with the nature of being in love but also the issue of prejudice: 'A
frog can't be in love with a duck. You're green and she's white.' But Frog doesn't
let that bother him...Green and white. Love knows no boundaries. This
enchanting love story was the first book by Max Velthuijs on the Andersen list now available as an Andersen paperback.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Andersen Press Ltd ISBN: 0862648726
Jennifer Jones won’t leave me alone
Jennifer Jones Won't Leave Me Alone is a funny story-poem about a love-struck
girl and the reluctant object of her affections. Our hero is embarrassed by his
admirer, but when she moves away, life becomes kind of boring.
Age Range Key Stage 1
Published by Corgi Childrens ISBN: 0552547557
-6-
6/22/2010
Love You Forever
The mother sings to her sleeping baby "I'll love you forever, I'll love you for
always, As long as I'm living my baby you'll be". She still sings the same song
when her baby has turned into a fractious 2-year-old, a slovenly 9-year-old, and
then a raucous teen. So far, so ordinary--but this is one persistent lady. When
her son grows up and leaves home, she takes to driving across town with a
ladder on the car roof, climbing in to her grown son's window, and rocking the
sleeping man in the same way. Then, inevitably, the day comes when she's too
old and sick to hold him, and the roles are at last reversed. Each stage is
illustrated by one of Sheila McGraw's comic and yet poignant pastels.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Firefly Books Ltd ISBN: 0920668372
No Matter What
A little fox is in a big bad mood, and is worried that its mother won't love it
forever. In this beautiful and lyrical picture book, we see a clever and resourceful
mother prove to her child that a parents love is limitless - no matter what! In this
reassuring and warm picture book, the hugely talented Debi Gliori manages to
treat the familiar subject of childhood worries in a very fresh, original and
inventive way
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Bloomsbury Publishing PLC ISBN: 0747563314
Our Twitchy
Twitchy and his family eat carrots and live in a burrow just like an ordinary rabbit
family. But one day Milfoil the cow and Sedge the horse decide to tell Twitchy
they are not his real rabbit mum and dad. Twitchy is so upset he is convinced
that he must turn himself into a horse or a cow so Sedge and Milfoil will still love
him. So he pegs up his ears like a cow's and makes his tail long like a horse's;
and he moos and he neighs just like his adoptive parents. But Milfoil and Sedge
don't want him to change. They love him just as he is, as much as if they were
his real mum and dad. And they always will!
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Red Fox ISBN: 0099434199
Tadpole’s Promise
Tadpole loves his rainbow friend, the caterpillar, and she tells him she loves
everything about him. Promise that you will never change, she says. But as the
seasons pass and he matures, his legs grow, and then his arms - and what
happens to his beautiful rainbow friend? As he sits on his lily pad, digesting a
butterfly, Tadpole little realises that now he will never know! Follow the
predictable changes of a tadpole and a caterpillar to their natural conclusion in
this award winning picture book.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Andersen Press Ltd ISBN: 1842704265
-7-
6/22/2010
The Whisperer
A feline 'West Side Story' from the creator of Albert le Blanc, Q Pootle 5 and the
best-selling Percy the Park Keeper series Two gangs of cats live in a scrap yard
on the edge of the city. When they're not eating or sleeping, they're fighting, and
that's just how The Whisperer likes it. He's a rat, and if he can keep the cats
going after each other, they'll leave him and his kind alone. But just maybe,
things in the scrap yard are about to change for the better. Or as The Whisperer
sees it - for the worse!
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by HarperCollins Children's Books ISBN: 0007120176
Truelove
Truelove is a dog who has had his wet, loveable nose put out of joint by the
arrival of a new baby in the house. He tries his best to attract his owners'
attention, but finally gives up and leaves home. Soon he falls into bad company
and is forced to return shamefaced. His owners are delighted to see him...and his
slightly dodgy new friends, of course. The text is made up of a series of
aphorisms about love, while the illustrations depict the little dog's own
experiences. The combination is sometimes ironic, sometimes sincere but it is
always hilarious and the book is full of warmth and understanding.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Red Fox ISBN: 0099433052
3. Gender roles
Books which explore gender stereotypes and encourage young people to
recognize that not conforming to these stereotypes is natural and young people
should be encouraged to express their individuality.
Bill’s New Frock
Bill wakes up one day as a girl, and is horrified to be sent to school in a frilly pink
frock with fiddly shell buttons. There he finds life suddenly very different. The
bully whistles at him, instead of kicking him, he can't be picked to lift a table - not
being a 'big strong boy' - his work's supposed to be ultra neat and he's being cast
as Lovely Rapunzel, who in any case never gets to say anything! By the time he
gets home the impractical frock is covered in mud and - thank goodness - Bill will
never have to wear it again!
Age Range: Key Stage 2
Published by Egmont Children’s Books ISBN: 140520060X
-8-
6/22/2010
Giraffes Can’t Dance
Gerald was a tall giraffe Whose neck was long and slim, But his knees were
awfully bandy And his legs were rather thin... Every year Gerald dreads the great
Jungle Dance, and feels ashamed that he cannot tango and two-step with the
rest of the jungle animals. But then one day he realises that it doesn't matter that
he is different from everyone else--its just that he needs a different tune to dance
to. A lovely story, wittily illustrated by Guy Parker-Rees and told in rhyme by the
award-winning author Giles Andreae, it has a stealth and humour that makes it
perfect for reading aloud. Giraffes Can't Dance is a nifty little 1story that children
and adults will love to read time and time again. (Ages 3 to 5 years).
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Orchard Picture Books ISBN: 1841215651
Jump
Every Saturday Steven watches his sister at her ballet class - jumping and
dancing - and he longs to join in. But his mother says that real boys don't dance;
they play games like basketball. However, there's one skill that you need for both
ballet and basketball - and, fortunately for Steven, it's the thing that he loves
doing best! Michelle Magorian says her inspiration for Jump! came from the
comments people used to make about her eldest son when he was still in
nappies, saying "I was surprised to hear people talking about all the "boyish"
activities he would take part in when he was older and thought, 'What if my son
preferred dance to rugby?"
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Walker Books ISBN: 0744589614
Long Live Princess Smartypants
A modern fairy tale for the twenty-first century and a second adventure for the
irrepressible and highly popular Princess Smartypants. Princess Smartypants
has decided she'd like to have a baby but doesn't want the husband to go with it.
The King and Queen will not hear of such a plan and attempt to take her mind off
it by keeping her busy. However, a crackly telephone line and a mixed-up
grocery list result in Smartypants getting the baby she wants - until she discovers
he has super-human strength and begins to wreak havoc around the Royal
palace. Perhaps looking after a baby on her own isn't going to be as easy as she
thinks!
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Puffin ISBN: 0140569626
-9-
6/22/2010
Pass It, Polly
Polly and Nisha are the only girls who want to play in the school football match.
But football is harder than it looks. However, with a bit of instruction and a lot of
practice they are soon dribbling, tackling and scoring goals. But how will they
perform on the day of the big match.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Puffin ISBN: 0140555218
Oliver Button is a Sissy
A little boy must come to terms with being teased and ostracized because he'd
rather read books, paint pictures, and tap-dance than participate in sports. His
classmates' taunts don't stop Oliver Button from doing what he likes best. Even
though Oliver doesn't win first prize at a talent show, his parents and classmates
cease their jeering of his "sissy" pursuits.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Voyager Books2 ISBN: O156681404
The Paper Bag Princess
First published in 1980 and with over four million copies in print, The Paper Bag
Princess (the story of a resourceful princess and her useless prince) has
captured the hearts of readers young and old all around the world. The New York
Times called it "one of the best children's books ever written" and it has appeared
countless times on "best books" lists. The story reverses the "princess and
dragon" folklore stereotype and celebrates feisty females everywhere, making it a
firm favourite with female readers of all ages, as well as women's groups,
teachers and librarians.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Annick Press ISBN: 0920236820
The Princesses Have a Ball
The king wonders what his daughters are up to at night – why aren’t they
dreaming of princes. He soon discovers that they are basketball fans and sets
out to find a clever cobbler to make them the perfect shoes.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Whitman & Company ISBN: 0807566284
- 10 -
6/22/2010
The Sissy Duckling
Illustrated by Henry Cole Adapted from an award-winning HBO animated special
written by 3-time Tony Award-winning playwright and actor Harvey Fierstein
(Torch Song Trilogy, Mrs. Doubtfire, Bullets over Broadway), this is a heartwarming tale about learning to embrace the special qualities we possess. Instead
of building forts and playing sports like other boy ducklings, Elmer wants to bake
cakes and put on the halftime show. He is great a big sissy. But when his father
is wounded by a hunter, Elmer proves that the biggest sissy can also be the
greatest hero.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Simon & Schuster ISBN: 068983566
William’s Doll
More than anything William wants a doll. Don't be a creep, says his brother.
Sissy, sissy, chants the boy next door. Then one day, someone really
understands William's wish and makes it easy for others to understand too.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by HarperCollins ISBN: 0060270470
4. Relationships
Books which introduce same-sex relationships and friendships in an age
appropriate way.
And Tango makes Three
At New York City's Central Park Zoo, two male penguins fall in love and start a
family by taking turns sitting on an abandoned egg until it hatches.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Simon & Schuster Children's ISBN: 0689878451
Daddy’s Roommate
A first title in a line of books for children with gay parents , told in a
straightforward manner. A young boy describes his father's relationship with his
roommate, Frank (they "live together, work together, eat together, sleep
together"), and his own relationship with these men - shopping, gardening, and
enjoying the zoo, beach, movies, etc. He believes that "being gay is just one
more kind of love. And love is the best kind of happiness." The tone throughout
the book is positive, and the boy has healthy, affectionate bonds with the adults
in his life.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Alyson Books ISBN: 1555831184
- 11 -
6/22/2010
Hello Sailor
A moving story of hope and friendship. Matt lives in a lighthouse. He watches the
sea every day...for ships and for his friend, Sailor. Matt is so forlorn that Sailor
has gone away that he almost forgets his own birthday. But, his friends say Sailor
will never come back, but Matt doesn't give up hope. And, after his birthday party
is over, his patience is rewarded, when Sailor finally returns.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by MacMillan ISBN: 0333987357
Jack & Jim
Longing for adventure, Jack the blackbird decides one day to venture out from
his forest home to seek the excitement of the sea. There he encounters a
dashing seagull named Jim, who welcomes Jack into his life and shows him the
wonders of his seaside village. Unfortunately, the other (white) gulls aren't so
hospitable. "Who's that funny bird," old Captain Seagull asks. In spite of Jim's
efforts to defend his friend, the villagers can't seem to get beyond Jack's
differences
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Hyperion Book CH ISBN: 0786806141
King and King
When the queen insists that the prince get married and take over as king, the
search for a suitable mate does not turn out as expected.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Tricyle Press ISBN: 1582460612
My Two Uncles
“I have two favourite uncles. Uncle Ned is Daddy’s brother. He’s my real uncle.
Uncle Phil is his friend”. It’s hard for Elly to understand when her grandfather
refuses to invite Phil to his fiftieth wedding anniversary party. And she feels
terrible when Ned refuses to come to the celebration; he’s tired of always going
to family parties alone. A compelling story portraying a family scenario of our
time.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Albert Whitman & Company ISBN:080755507X
Mummy Never Told Me
What are tummy buttons for, and how do they get there? What does the tooth
fairy really look like? Why do grown-ups have hair in their ears and up their
noses, but sometimes none on their heads? Why do Mummy and Daddy lock you
out of their bedroom, and where do they go at night? Babette Cole explores
these questions and many more with her wonderfully sharp text and riotously
funny illustrations.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Ted Smart ISBN: 0224070010
- 12 -
6/22/2010
The Day They Put A Tax On Rainbows
Three original stories combining elements of traditional tales with characters that
are members of nontraditional families.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Alyson Books ISBN-10: 1555832016
We do: A celebration of gay and lesbian marriage
This is the only book in the market to celebrate the gay marriages of February
and March 2004 around the US. First comes love, then comes marriage -unless, of course, you're gay. We Do is an intimate portrait of these historymaking weddings. A many-splendour thing, love is captured here in all its joy and
diversity. Drawing on ceremonies from around the country, here are weddings
both traditional and unconventional, whether the brides and grooms are in
flowing white gowns, business suits, or blue jeans. The result is a touching album
of happy couples, from the two lesbians who've been together 51 years to dads
with babes in arms. A joyful celebration, We Do stands witness to the fact that we
are all created equal in love.
Age Range: Key Stage 2
Published by Chronicle Books ISBN: 0811846121
5. Different families
Primary school age books which look at different family relationships, with a
focus on same sex families.
ABC A Family Alphabet book
Have fun with the children, moms, dads, and pets in this delightful book that
celebrates alternative families as it teaches young children the alphabet. Fun,
colorful illustrations by Desiree Keane and Brian Rappa.
Age Range: Early Years
Published by Two Lives Publishing ISBN: 0967446813
Asha's Mums
Asha, an African-Canadian girl whose lesbian mums become an issue for the
teacher and the curiosity of classmates, responds with clarity and assuredness
that having two mums is no big deal--they are a family.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Women's Press (UK) ISBN: 0889611432
Best Best Colors
Nate has trouble deciding what his favorite colour is, but his two mammas help
him realize that he does not have to have a best, best colour. (Bilingual: English
and Spanish)
Age Range: Early Years
Published by Redleaf Press ISBN: 1884834698
- 13 -
6/22/2010
Dad David, Baba Chris and ME
This brightly illustrated book for children aged 5-10 years old tells Ben’s story
about his ordinary life. Ben was adopted by his gay parents – Dad David and
Baba Chris – when he was four years old, and they live happily together in an
ordinary house, on an ordinary street and do ordinary things.When Ben starts
junior school his ordinary life is turned upside down. Some children begin to
tease him because he lives with two dads. They try to hurt and upset him by
calling him “gay”. Now Ben is worried that he is not so ordinary any more and he
is anxious about being different. Baba Chris and Ben’s school teacher Miss Patel
help Ben to understand that children live in all kinds of families and that what
matters most is that children are loved and cared for.
Age Range: Key Stage 1/2
Published by British Association for Adoption and Fostering ISBN:
9781905664894
Daddy’s Room Mate
A first title in a new line of books for children with homosexual parents , told in a
straightforward manner. A young boy describes his father's relationship with his
roommate, Frank (they "live together, work together, eat together, sleep together
. . ."), and his own relationship with these men--shopping, gardening, and
enjoying the zoo, beach, movies, etc. He believes that "being gay is just one
more kind of love. And love is the best kind of happiness."
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Alyson Books ISBN: 1555831184
Emma and Meesha My Boy: A Two Mom Story
This is a delightful story of little girl with two mums as she learns how to be nice
to her cat. Follow along as Emma gets in trouble trying to play with Meesha Kitty
and cheer as she learns to treat him with care.
Age Range: Early Years
Published by TWOMOMBOOKS.com ISBN:1413416004
Felicia’s Favorite Story
It's bedtime and Felicia wants to hear her very favourite story--the story of how
she was adopted. So Mama Linda and Mama Nessa tell Felicia how they flew off
in a big silver airplane to meet her; how they loved her as soon as they saw her;
and how they named her Felicia, a Spanish word that means "happy" because
Felicia was such a happy baby and because having her in their family makes
Mama Linda and Mama Nessa very, very happy.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Two Lives Publishing ISBN: 0967446856
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6/22/2010
Flying Free
A picture book for children of LGBT and diverse families. Flying Free is narrated
by a firefly captured by a five-year-old girl named Violet. Violet plans to use the
firefly as her very own nightlight. Her mommies go along with the idea, but the
firefly refuses to live in a glass jar. After several attempts, the firefly devises the
ultimate escape plan. . .what will her fate be? Flying Free is suitable for children
age 2-6.
Age Range: Early Years
Published by BookSurge Publishing ISBN: 1594579725
Generous Jefferson Bartleby Jo
Generous Jefferson Bartleby Jones by Forman Brown, is a story told in rhyming
verses about young Jeff and his two fathers. Jeff has a lot to feel good about
because of the four days out of the week he spends with his dads, they always
find exciting things to do like hiking, farming, horseback riding, or taking trips to
the zoo. Jeff's best friends, Chad and Kim, don't feel as lucky as Jeff because
they have only one dad each. Jeff generously loans out his dads, sometimes to
Kim and other times to Chad. One day he loans both other dads out on the same
day and is left alone.
Age Range: Key Stage 2
Published by Alyson Books ISBN-10: 1555831982
Going to Fair Day
The continuation of the story begun in My House about a 5-year-old girl and her
two mums. The family go to a Fair Day and end up adopting a dog that wins the
dog competition.
Age Range: Early Years
Published by Learn to Include ISBN: 0958129010
Heather has two mommies
The first lesbian-themed children's book ever published—now in color—Lesléa
Newman’s groundbreaking children’s book has an enduring message about
acceptance and tolerance that will appeal to readers of all ages and
backgrounds: The most important thing about any family is that all the people in it
love each other.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Alyson Books ISBN: 1593501366
How my family came to be
Reaches out to younger children with fun and expressive illustrations and also to
older children with the explanation of how 2 dads went through the process of
creating their family.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by New Family Press ISBN-10: 0974200808
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6/22/2010
In Our Mother’s House
The oldest of three adopted children recalls her childhood with mothers Marmee
and Meema, as they raised their African American daughter, Asian American
son, and Caucasian daughter in a lively, supportive neighborhood. Filled with
recollections of family holidays, rituals, and special moments, each memory
reveals loving insight.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by: Philomel Books ISBN: 039925076X
If I had a Hundred Mummies
A little girl imagines what it would be like to have 100 mummies, eventually
deciding that she is happy with just the two she's got.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Onlywomen Press Ltd ISBN: 0906500915
Josh and Jaz have three mums
Josh and Jess are five-year-old twins who have been adopted by a lesbian
couple. They are anxious when their school teacher asks them to produce a
family tree. With their mums they produce a family tree that wins the admiration
of their classmates.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by British Association for Adoption and Fostering
ISBN-10: 1905664125
King and King and Family
Newlyweds King Lee and King Bertie on their journey into the noisy jungle. As
they float down a river, wild animal families turn out to greet them but the royal
travellers suspect something more significant awaits them in the trees. The
illustrious pair soon discover that theres no adventure more wonderful than
starting a family.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Tricycle Press ISBN: 1582461139
Koalas on Parade
This is book 4 in the Learn-to-Include series, suitable for reading to under 8's and
for beginner readers from 6-8 years. In this book, the narrator's mums help her
make a koala costume for her school's costume parade. When she finds out that
her friend Hannah is also a koala, the two girls dance together in the parade and
take home first prize!
Age Range: Early Years
Published by Learn to Include ISBN:0958129037
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6/22/2010
Mama eat ant, yuck!
This book uses simple rhyming text to tell a funny story in the family life of oneyear-old Emma, her Mama and Mommy, and her siblings. The large colorful
illustrations enchant children as well as adults. The child-friendly title is repeated
throughout the book, especially delightful for two-year-olds who love to shout out
a beloved phrase and are proud of knowing the appropriate moments. Suitable
for reading to children from newborns to 7-year-olds.
Age Range: Early Years
Published by Hundredth Munchy PublicationsISBN: 0965670023
Molly’s Family
When Molly draws a picture of her family for her kindergarten class, Tommy jeers
at her that no one has two mommies. At first she is angry and hurt, but with the
support of her teacher and her loving parents--Mommy (her birth mother) and
Mama Lu (her adoptive mother)--she comes to accept her family. What helps her
most is seeing many different kinds of families: Tanya has a mommy, a daddy, a
grandma, and two brothers; Stephen has no father; Adam has no mother
("Daddy and me!"); some kids are adopted. Wooding's warm, soft-textured
colored-pencil pictures show Molly in her lively classroom and in her happy,
nurturing home.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Farrar Straus Giroux ISBN: 0374350027
Mum and Mom are Getting Married
This title is intended for ages 8 years & under. It is a celebration of love and
family. When Rosie comes home to find her Mom dancing alone in the living
room - on a school day - she knows something wonderful is about to happen. So
when one of her two mothers announces, "Your Mum and I are getting married!"
they can't wait to start planning the big day. Rosie has so many questions. Will
she get to be a flower girl? Can she get a new dress? Will there be food and a
fabulous wedding cake? At this party, friends, family and fun come together for a
joyous celebration of love in a changing world.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Second Story Press ISBN: 1896764843
My house
A story about a five-year-old girl, her pets and her home. She has two dogs, a
cat, and two mums. A great book for all children, but especially important as an
educational tool for same-sex parented families. Ages 5-7.
Age Range: Early Years
Published by Learn To Include ISBN: 0958129002
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6/22/2010
One Dad, Two Dads, Brown Dads, Blue Dads
Two children - one with blue dads and one from a more traditional family compare notes in this light hearted, easy-to-read book about parents who are
different. In the end, of course, they discover that blue dads aren't really that
different from other dads. Except for one thing.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Alyson Publications ISBN: 1555838480
Picnic in the Park
"Picnic in the Park" is a fully illustrated book for children which tells the story of
Jason's birthday picnic and his guests. In so doing, it introduces children to a
range of family structures, including two- and one-parent families; adoptive and
foster families; gay and lesbian families; and step-families. It also shows a
diverse range of adults and children. Using the device of a birthday picnic in the
park, each page shows a new set of guests coming to the party; children can
draw their own and friends' families on the pages at the back. Vividly illustrated,
this book will provide family placement workers with an invaluable tool for
introducing children to contemporary family structures in their preparation work
with children prior to placement. Indeed, given the scope of the contents, this
book could be used with any child in any setting to introduce them to modern-day
family structures.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by British Association for Adoption & Fostering ISBN:
1905664087
Spacegirl Pukes
Young spacegirl is especially lucky to have two mothers and a very curious cat
nearby when rocket troubles and nausea begin.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Onlywomen Press Ltd ISBN: 0906500877
The Daddy Machine
Two children with lesbian mothers wonder what it would be like to have a father,
so they make themselves a daddy machine, turn it on, and a dad pops out. Then
comes another, and another, and another ...
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Alyson Books ISBN: 1555838464
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6/22/2010
The Manu Series
Manu is a series of bilingual Spanish-English cardboard picture books dealing
with situations from the daily life of Manu and his two mothers. Includes “Manu
sets the table”, “Manu's bedtime” & “No, Manu!”. (Bilingual: English and Spanish)
Published by Topka (Spain). 2006
Age Range: Early Years
ISBN: 8493523925/ 8493523917/ 8493523909
Only available by ordering online from www.topka.es
The Rainbow Cubby House
The Rainbow Cubby House is about the narrator, her mums, her friend Jed and
his dads building a cubby house in the backyard. This is book 3 in the Learn to
Include easy-to-read series. It is suitable for reading to under 8's and for beginner
readers from 6-8 years.
Age Range: Early Years
Published by Learn to Include ISBN: 0958129029
The White Swan Express
This tender, ebullient picture book tracks a quartet of parents in North America
and a quartet of baby girls in China as everyone prepares for the "special day"
they meet. With its matter-of-fact mix of parents that include two married couples,
a lesbian couple and a single mother, the book's understated message-that
families come in all shapes and sizes, and are bound together by love-comes
through loudly and clearly.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Clarion Books ISBN:0618164537
Uncle Bobby’s Wedding
When her favorite uncle, Bobby, announces that he is getting married to his
boyfriend, Jamie, Chloe worries that he won’t have time for her anymore. The
characters are all guinea pigs in human dress, and the sweet, double-page
spreads in watercolor and graphite show the idyllic bond between the child and
her uncle, as they walk together in the woods, row on the river, and more. In
contrast are the scenes of her sadness and jealousy until she learns to have fun
with both Bobby and Jamie together—even as they talk about their plans to raise
their own kids. The climax is the joyful, exciting wedding—the couple in tuxedos,
Chloe as the flower girl, and the big, extended family all together, smiling and
teary
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Putnam Juvenile ISBN-10:0399247122
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6/22/2010
Two Moms, The Zark and Me
A young child with two moms, a playful animal called a Zark, and the narrowminded McFinks, all come together in this whimsical story that looks at just what
a family is really all about.
Age Range: Early Years
Published by Alyson Books ISBN: 1555832369
While You Were Sleeping
While you Were Sleeping Lovingly describes two women learning that they will
adopt a newborn baby boy. It speaks to the hearts of all who cherish children
while validating non-traditional families of all sorts.
Age Range: Early Years
Published by: Burks Publishing ISBN: 1412028531
Who’s in a Family
Family is important. But who's in a family? This picture book provides the answer
with a series of family snapshots that has no preconceptions about what makes a
family. There are even snapshots from some of children's favorite animal
families.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Tricycle Press ISBN: 188367266X
123 A Family Counting Book
Have fun with the kids, moms, dads and pets in this delightful book that
celebrates alternative families as it teaches kids to count from one to twenty. All
of the full color paintings depict families headed by gays and lesbians. Two dads
read a bedtime story to their kids; two moms share popsicles with their kids on
the porch; and several families gather around the campfire on a summer night.
Age Range: Key Stage 1
Published by Two Lives ISBN: 0967446805
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6/22/2010
6. Lesbian, gay and bisexual characters
Books for primary school children which feature Lesbian, gay or bisexual
characters:
Two weeks with the Queen
When Colin's brother Luke becomes seriously ill with leukemia, he is determined
to get the best help possible. He's sent to stay with relatives in London and works
to go to the very top - the Queen first and, failing her, the best cancer doctor in
the world. He is helped by a young man whose partner is dying of Aids - the
ending cannot be happy, but is joyous in a way because it offers comfort and
truth. The story is told with a wonderfully humorous touch.
Age Range: Key Stage 2
Published by Puffin ISBN: 014130300X
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6/22/2010