Confetti – by Dean Atta, illustrated by Alea Marley
What it’s like to read:
This feels like a joyful, celebratory book — the kind you’d read together and talk about afterwards. The tone is warm and positive rather than heavy.
For families:
- Great for starting gentle conversations about identity and belonging
- Likely to appeal to slightly older picture book readers (around 4–8)
Best bit:
It focuses on celebration and pride, not problems — which makes it uplifting.
Rainbowsaurus – by Steve Antony
What it’s like to read:
Fun, silly, and colourful — this is the one kids will probably grab off the shelf themselves.
For families:
- Perfect for younger children (3–5)
- Easy to read aloud, with lots of visual appeal
Best bit:
It introduces inclusivity in a playful, low-pressure way — no big explanations needed.
I Am NOT a Prince – by Rachel Davis, illustrated by Beatrix Hatcher
What it’s like to read:
A bit more message-driven, but still story-based. It’s about being yourself and not fitting expectations.
For families:
- Good for kids who like stories about identity and independence
- Works well if your child is starting to ask questions about gender roles
Best bit:
Encourages confidence and self-expression.
Uncle Bobby’s Wedding – by Sarah Brannen, illustrated by Lucia Soto
What it’s like to read:
A gentle, story-first book about a child reacting to their uncle getting married — and learning that love doesn’t change relationships.
For families:
- Very reassuring for younger children
- Especially helpful if your child is experiencing family changes
Best bit:
It’s about family and emotions first, with LGBTQ+ themes naturally included.
Civil Rights Stories: LGBTQ+ Rights – by Louise Spilsbury, illustrated by Toby Newsome
What it’s like to read:
This is more of a learning book than a story. It explains LGBTQ+ rights and history in a simple, child-friendly way.
For families:
- Better for slightly older children (6–9+)
- Useful if your child is asking “why” questions
Best bit:
Helps children understand the real-world context behind Pride
Our family take
If you’re choosing for home reading:
- Most fun: Rainbowsaurus
- Most heartfelt: Uncle Bobby’s Wedding
- Best for meaningful conversations: Confetti
- Best for learning: Civil Rights Stories: LGBTQ+ Rights
A great balanced, natural way to explore the topic as a family without it feeling like a lesson.
