Celebrate pride month with these picture books

CEDAR RAPIDS — To celebrate Pride month this June, Cedar Rapids Public Library librarian Renee Greenlee shared this list of picture books that celebrate the lives and families of LGBTQ+ people.

Pride month is dedicated to celebration and commemoration of LGBTQ+ people. LGBTQ stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer.

The word queer is used by people to identify with and celebrate people of all gender identities and all the ways people love each other. It can be used in celebration, but when used in a mean way, it can be hurtful, according to Welcoming Schools, a bullying prevention program with tools to embrace family diversity and create gender inclusive schools.

"As a story time presenter, I realize the importance of reading picture books that demonstrate positive LGBTQ+ themes, characters and family structures,“ Greenlee said. ”This allows children to see themselves and their own families reflected in books, as well as learn about other people they will encounter in their growing worlds.“

One of her favorites is Stonewall Book Award winner “Love, Violet" by Charlotte Sullivan Wild, a heartwarming story about the adventures, friendship and love Violet experiences with her classmate, Mira. Readers of all ages will cheer Violet on as she tries to express her feelings to her special friend on Valentine’s Day.

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Another favorite, “Bathe the Cat” by Alice B. McGinty is a romping, rhyming story of two dads and their family who are trying to get the house in order for Grandma’s visit. However, the family cat doesn’t want a bath and has a “paw” in bringing chaos to the chores! Kids and their grown-ups will get a kick out of this.

Other books available at the Cedar Rapids Public Library to check out this month or any time of the year:

Comments: (319) 398-8411; grace.king@thegazette.com