Jumpstart’s Book Recommendations for Pride Month

Adventures with My Daddies written by Gareth Peter, illustrated by Garry Parsons

This ode to families and books shares how one family loves to spend time together imagining what adventures they’d go on in the stories they read. From dragons to exploring space, we see how this family’s strength is rooted in their love for each other. Invite your child to think about their favorite stories and imagine they were in the story. Ask them, “How would you have completed the adventure or solved the problem?”

My Shadow is Purple written and illustrated by Scott Stuart

In this story about being true to yourself, our main character asks those around them to think beyond the gender binary. They inspire their classmates to show their true colors and the world around them becomes much more colorful and diverse. Encourage your child to think about the things they love about themselves, you can ask, “what are some of your favorite qualities about yourself?”

Teo’s Tutu written by Maryann Jacob Macias, illustrated by Alea Marley

Join Teo as he performs in his first ballet recital. When presented with options for how to present himself, Teo stays true to himself. Teo’s passion for dance helps him be brave during his recital. Have a dance party with your child! Invite them to dance with you to different genres of music. You can ask them for recommendations for songs to dance to.

‘Twas the Night Before Pride written by Joanna McClintick, illustrated by Sophie Diao

Learn about the origins of Pride in this rhyming tale as one family gets ready to celebrate in their local Pride festivities. This story shares both the history of Pride and how it’s transformed into a celebration of self-acceptance and self-love. Research your local Pride festivities with your child. Is there an event they’d like to participate in or a parade float they’d love to see? Ask them, “How should we celebrate Pride this year?”

A Family is a Family is a Family written by Sara O’Leary Illustrated by Qin Leng

A classroom of children shares about all the ways their families are unique. Though everyone’s family looks a little different, the children learn how all families share one huge similarity: they all love each other. Ask your child, “What makes our family special?”

Jack (Not Jackie) written by Erica Silverman, illustrated by Holly Hatam

Susan’s so excited to have a little sister. But Jack is not her little sister, he’s her little brother. In an accepting family, Jack steps into his identity proudly. Encourage your child to draw a portrait of a loved one. You can ask them, “What is your favorite way of spending time with them?”