Read Proud: Conversation Starters for Talking to Children About Gender and LGBTQ Topics

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Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh engages all of our communities in literacy and learning. Check out the titles below and ask your local librarian for more.

The Bare Naked Book

A picture book for toddlers that describes various parts of the human body. This revised edition is ready to meet a new generation of readers. The text has been updated to reflect current understandings of gender and inclusion, which are also showcased in the brand-new, vibrant illustrations by Melissa Cho. You can also check out this title as eBook on Hoopla.


Being You: A First Conversation About Gender

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.




Jacob's Room to Choose

After kindergarteners Jacob and Sophie are prevented from using their school’s bathrooms, their teacher helps her students write new rules about who can use which bathroom.


Sex Is a Funny Word

A comic book for kids that includes children and families of all makeups, orientations, and gender identities; an essential resource about bodies, gender, and sexuality for children ages 8 to 10 as well as their parents and caregivers. You can also check out this title as eBook on OverDrive/Libby or as eBook on Hoopla.


They She He Me: Free to Be!

Pronouns serve as a familiar starting point for kids and grown-ups to expand ideas about gender and celebrate personal expression with fun imagery that provides a place to meet and play.


You Be You! : The Kid's Guide to Gender, Sexuality, and Family

Throughout the book kids learn that there are many kinds of people in the world and that diversity is something to be celebrated. It covers gender, romantic orientation, discrimination, intersectionality, privilege, and how to stand up for what’s right. With charming illustrations, clear explanations, and short sections that can be dipped in and out of, this book helps children think about how to create a kinder, more tolerant world. You can also check out this title as eBook on OverDrive/Libby.