NYPL’s Teen Reading Ambassadors program brings together 10th–12th grade students from across New York City to learn about the Library and help further its mission to inspire lifelong learning in others, particularly young children. Below are book recommendations for kids ages 5–12 selected by Ambassadors that affirm and celebrate LGBTQ+ identities. These titles emphasize love and acceptance above all, as they explore family relationships, gender, and more. We hope you carry these stories and messages with you through Pride Month and beyond!

Stella Brings the Family written by Miriam B. Schiffer and illustrated by Holly Clifton-Brown

Ages 5–8
Recommended by Julianna R.

The sweet, heartfelt story Stella Brings the Family by Miriam B. Schiffer tells of the hardships faced by a little girl named Stella when Mother’s Day comes around. Stella’s class is hosting a party where every student can bring their mother for the day. However, Stella doesn’t have a mom, she has two dads! What will she do? Read this book to not only find out what Stella does next, but to also learn about the values of love, community, family, and diversity. If you’re looking for a realistic and endearing story that teaches about family differences and helping others, then this is the perfect book for you! 

My Rainbow written by Trinity and DeShanna Neal and illustrated by Art Twink 

Ages 5–8
Recommended by Norah B. 

My Rainbow written by Trinity and DeShanna Neal is a gem unlike any other. It follows the real-life story of a mother who works to create the perfect rainbow-colored wig for her transgender daughter. The book showcases a diverse character for a diverse audience using beautiful art, touching words, and the genuine love and acceptance of a mother. If you’re looking for something a bit different from what you’ve read before, I would definitely recommend this book. 

Julián is a Mermaid written and illustrated by Jessica Love

Ages 5–8
Recommended by Izabell M. 

Do you love mermaids? Well, Julián does. Julián loves the mermaids he sees on the trains, with their bright hair and colorful tails. He loves them so much, he even wants to be one! Then Julián has a great idea: he should become a mermaid too! Julián shows you how he becomes a mermaid at home, using what he has around the house. Soon though he becomes worried about what his Abuela thinks about Julián the Mermaid, but she surprises him with something super exciting. Read the book to swim with all the bright mermaids Julián loves, to feel free with the flowy illustrations, and to find out what Abuela’s fun surprise for Julián is! 

The Boy and the Bindi written by Vivek Shraya and illustrated by Rajni Perera

Ages 5–8
Recommended by Simran H. 

The lyrical words and beautiful illustration in this heartwarming children’s book follow a young boy as he discovers the importance of a bindi. What is a bindi you ask? Well, it is an adornment used by many women in South Asian cultures. A bindi on the forehead has symbolized the identity of South Asians for generations. In the book, the boy is enchanted by his mother’s bindi and when Ammi explains its significance, he wants to wear one himself. The book is an artistic spin on the idea that boys can wear whatever they want even if it is considered feminine. The bindi allows the boy to truly express himself and his uniqueness. 

This Day in June written by Gayle E. Pitman and illustrated by Kristyna Litten 

Ages 5–8
Recommended by Victoria S.

The streets are lined with confetti and sprinkled with love in the picture book This Day in June. This story, written by Gayle E. Pitman and illustrated by Kristyna Litten, shows people in the LGBTQ+ community celebrating in fancy clothes and walking in a parade of rainbow colors. Everyone is dressed their very best, with skirts and shorts and lots of different shoes: high heels, flats, and even boots. 
 
This book is all about the colorful month of June, also known as Pride Month! These vibrant illustrations show people proudly and happily expressing themselves. Feel free to ask a trusted adult if you have any questions about images or text—there’s certainly a lot of hidden symbols! And if there are any adults reading, this story is perfect for starting a conversation about the LGBTQ+ community. Created with the American Psychological Association, this picture book clearly outlines how to help kids learn more about people and themselves. Ultimately, this book teaches that love is love and equality is for all! 

When Aidan Became a Brother written by Kyle Lukoff and illustrated by Kaylani Juanita

Ages 5-8
Recommended by Jessica W. 

Ever since he was little, Aidan always felt something wasn’t quite right… everyone thought he was a girl, but he knew that didn’t fit him. Aidan sees girls wearing pants and playing with bugs. Why can’t he do that? As he grew older, things became more clear: he is really a boy! When mom announces that she’s pregnant, Aidan becomes excited, but he soon becomes worried. Will the baby love him? Has he picked the right name? Will the baby have to go through the struggles he did? In When Aidan Became a Brother by Kyle Lukoff, Aidan learns that no matter who you are, it is always important to love someone the way they are. He learns to accept that everyone is special and that everyone makes mistakes. Join Aidan on a loving adventure to reveal his true colors!

Heather Has Two Mommies written by Leslea Newman and illustrated by Laura Cornell

Ages 5-8
Recommended by Yuneydy P.

Do you sometimes feel like your family is different from everyone else’s? In Heather Has Two Mommies, Heather does all the time. Initially, when she goes to school and says she has two mommies, everyone finds it strange. However, together, we all find out that every family is unique in its own way. Join Heather as she learns about how her classmate’s families are different from her own. Nothing is wrong with two mommies, daddies, or even a grandma! 

The Magic Fish by Trung Le Nguyen 

Ages 12 and up
Recommended by Jade M. 

Note: This title is best for young adult readers. As a child of immigrants, young Tien struggles to communicate with his parents. Tien overcomes the language barrier and connects with his mother through the fairytales they read together. Tien, however, has things that aren’t easily communicated, like the crush he has on his best friend, and how he wants to look good for the school dance. Not only that but is there a book that tells your mother that you’re gay? This graphic novel is a universal experience for all first-generation children, with the addition of the difficulty and fear there is to come out and having to explain who you are.