Top 10 LGBTQ+ kids books featuring Black characters
As parents (or parents-to-be), you may know that it is not always easy to find books, TV shows, and movies that represent diverse families.
In GLAAD’s 2020 annual Where We Are On TV report, they announced that representation of LGBTQ+ characters in mainstream media was at an all-time high, but that it was still only at 10.2%. Ten percent! We must do better.
At the same time that we continue to push for more inclusive character representation on our screens, it’s also important to showcase families of all shapes, sizes, and colors early on in our children’s lives.
With that in mind, here is a list (in no particular order) of some of my favorite LGBTQ+ children’s books featuring Black characters for you and your child to discover together.
- Why Do I Have Two Mommies? | Janai Akerele
This book follows Angel as she asks all the important people in her life, “Why do I have two mommies?” The story explores themes of inclusion and diversity for a young audience. - Umi & Uma | Nyesha and Samantha Davis-Williams
This tale of two moms raising a baby was actually written from the perspective of two moms, raising a baby – making them uniquely qualified writers for this story! The book follows their adventure to motherhood in the fictional land of Astrin. - Two Moms and a Menagerie | Carolyn Robertson
This story is about two moms, their two adopted sons and their ever-growing animal family. With its fun text and lively illustrations, this one is an entertaining read for all ages. - Zak’s Safari | Christy Tyner
In this book the reader learns about how Zak’s two moms met, fell in love, and wanted more than anything to have a baby—so they decided to make one using a sperm donor. Zak’s Safari is a good read for families hoping to help slightly older readers learn more about sperm donation in a simple way. - Papa, Daddy & Riley | Seamus Kirst
When one of her classmates asks Riley who her “real dad” is, she is confused – and doesn’t want to have to choose between the two special people in her life! This book really drives home the message that, while all families look different, the love they share makes them the same. - Baby’s First Words | Stella Blackstone & Sunny Scribens
This board book (for tiny readers) features a baby whose parents happen to be two dads – a biracial couple. The book follows the trio around the city and helps little ones understand that a family with two dads – or two moms – is the same as any other loving family. - Two Dads | Carolyn Robertson
This story about a two-dad family built through adoption really celebrates the diversity present in all families. This proud story is told from the perspective of an adopted child who happens to have two dads. - Julian is a Mermaid | Jessica Love
The illustrations in this book take center stage. Julian sees a group of “mermaids” on the subway one day with his grandmother, and can’t help but be inspired to dress like them. This book celebrates individuality and self-expression and is a great read for any age. - They, She, He easy as ABC | Maya Christina Gonzalez
In this rhyming story, characters in a dance all have different traits, clothing, and gender identities – and all are accepted. Plus, you’ll get to practice the alphabet while you celebrate gender inclusivity! - When Aidan Became a Brother | Kyle Lukoff & Kaylani Juanita
This book has been on many editor’s choice lists for children’s books, and we can understand why. From the acceptance of a trans child to the lessons about becoming a big sibling, every family can find something to take away from this heartwarming story.
Looking for even more LGBTQ+ children’s books?
There are more and more books being published that celebrate inclusivity and diversity, and it’s about time!
To explore more LGBTQ+ books you can read with your child, check out this list of the best LGBTQ+ books for kids. Introducing diversity and representation to your child’s daily experience from an early age is a wonderful way to show them that all people are equally valuable and worthy of being celebrated.
This article was first published on Gay Parents To Be.
