New and Noteworthy Picture Books June 2022
We are dedicated to bringing the best and brightest books to our library collections. Here are some of the latest picture books, perfect for Pride Month, that celebrate families and people across the rainbow spectrum. Additionally, all are available in an electronic format.
Calvin by JR & Vanessa Ford, illustrated by Kayla Harren (ages 4-8)
When Calvin tells his parents that he's a boy even though the world sees him as a girl, they help him look and feel like the boy he's always known himself to be, with new clothing and a haircut. When the first day of school arrives, Calvin is worried about how he'll be treated, but his friends and teachers welcome Calvin with kindness, support and respect.
Cinderelliot: A Scrumptious Fairytale by Mark Ceilley & Rachel Smoka-Richardson, illustrated by Stephanie Laberis (ages 4-7)
In this queer retelling of the classic fairy tale, baker extraordinaire Cinderelliot wants to enter a competition for a new royal baker. But his stepsiblings plan to pass off his sweet creations as their own. After some assistance from a fabulous fairy godfather, Cinderelliot's chocolate cake catches the eye of Prince Samuel. Upon Cinderelliot's hasty exit, the prince searches the kingdom to find not just his baker but also his new husband.
If You're a Drag Queen and You Know It by Lil Hot Mess, illustrated by Olga de Dios (ages 3-5)
A troupe of diverse drag queens in colourful costumes gives the classic song "If You're Happy and You Know It" a fabulous twist. From striking a pose to laughing real big, this book embraces the playfulness of drag culture and encourages kids to sing, dance and be their brightest and boldest selves.
Patience, Patches by Christy Mihaly, illustrated by Sheryl Murray (ages 1-5)
Patches is very good at being a patient pup, especially on the day when his moms step out and promise to be back soon. When they return with a new baby, Patches adjusts to life with the addition to the household and teaches the baby to be patient, just like him.
'Twas the Night Before Pride y Joanna McClintick, illustrated by Juana Medina (ages 4-8)
On the night before Pride, everyone is preparing for the big celebration, including a family of two moms, a boy and his younger brother. Modeled after the classic poem 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, this book gently highlights the history and importance of Pride, honours the dazzling diversity of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, and reaffirms that the best thing about Pride is getting to be yourself.
Posted on behalf of Scott, Children's Selection Team and Juvenile Pride Collection selector.
More Ways to Celebrate Pride
- Check out our Reading with Pride booklist for more children's books celebrating diverse families and encouraging self-expression
- Tune in live for our online Rainbow Storytime on June 14 and Drag Storytime with Gila Münster on June 25
- Watch our Rainbow Storytime videos on YouTube
- Visit tpl.ca/pride for programs and recommended reads for all ages
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