LGBTQ+ Gender & Sexuality Books

This children's picture book helps adults to explain gender identity and expression to 4 to 8 year olds using simple language and engaging, diverse characters, covering the entire spectrum of gender. Includes a guide for parents and professionals and a lesson plan at the end of the book.

At lunchtime, all of Tom's friends gather at school to work together building their house. Each one of them has a special job to do, and each one of them has a different way of expressing their gender identity.

Jackson is a boy who likes to wear dresses. Ivy is a girl who likes her hair cut really short. Alex doesn't feel like 'just' a boy, or 'just' a girl. They are all the same, they are all different - but they are all friends.

A very simple story that challenges gender stereotypes and shows 4 to 8 year olds that it is OK to be yourself. An engaging story that is more than just an educational tool; this book will assist parents and teachers in giving children the space to explore the full spectrum of gender diversity and will show children the many ways they can express their gender in a truly positive light.

'In this era of gender revolution, A House for Everyone reminds us that gender isn't two boxes but a rainbow with room for children of every gender. Jo Hirst's brilliant book teaches all our children about gender identity and gender expressions while celebrating gender acceptance--let's bring it to every classroom and household.'
- Diane Ehrensaft, Ph.D. Author of The Gender Creative Child and Gender Born, Gender Made, Director of Mental Health of the Child and Adolescent Gender Center

'A vibrant, up-beat story about inclusion and acceptance, looking past stereotypes and embracing human differences. It's a much-needed resource in the Gender Identity category.'
- Rebecca Seymour, Little Parachutes

Author: Jo Hirst, illustrated by Naomi Bardoff
Format: Hardback
Pages: 32
ISBN: 9781785924484

Reading age 3 - 7 years.

Tiny prefers not to tell other children whether they are a boy or girl. Tiny also loves to play fancy dress, sometimes as a fairy and sometimes as a knight in shining armour. Tiny's family don't seem to mind but when they start a new school some of their new classmates struggle to understand.

'A lovely, sensitive, much-needed book that helps all children ask the big questions about identity and gender.' - Juno Dawson, author of This Book is Gay

Tiny loves costumes! Tiny likes to dress up as an animal, or a doctor, or a butterfly. Tiny also prefers not to tell other children whether they are a boy or a girl. Tiny's friends don't mind, but when Tiny starts a new school their new friends can't help asking one question:

"Tiny, are you a boy or are you a girl?"

This brightly illustrated book will open a dialogue with children aged 3+ about gender diversity in a fun and creative way. Featuring a gender neutral protagonist, the book imparts an important message about identity and being who you want to be. Tiny's story will assist parents, family and teachers in giving children the space to express themselves fully, explore different identities and have fun at the same time.

'Books on gender identity for young children are still very few and far between. Children who do not identify as boys or girls will find Are You a Boy or Are You a Girl? immensely reassuring. It will be extremely valuable too in schools, in families, and in other settings - for helping young children understand gender diversity and question gender stereotypes. At the end there are a number of useful discussion starters, for example 'Does it matter if Tiny is a boy or a girl?' and 'What would you ask Tiny if you met them?', followed by information about organisations that provide support on gender identity issues. A sensitive and important book, written by campaigners for transgender rights.'
- Anne Harding

'The real value for children and parents in this book stems from its simplicity, it puts the story across in a grounded manner and invites open discussion. The authors, Fox Fisher and Sarah Savage have collaborated to produce what I feel is an amazing book.'
- Sophie Smallman

Author: Sarah Savage and Fox Fisher, illustrated by Fox Fisher
Format: Hardback
Pages: 32
ISBN: 9781785922671

Author: Phoenix Schneider & Sherry Paris
Format: Paperback
Pages: 224
ISBN: 9781787751996

For age 7 years and up.

Kit, a 12 year old who identifies as a boy, explains all about gender variance, the experience of medical transition and how his family, friends and school can support him. This illustrated introduction to gender diversity will be a helpful guide and discussion starter for children 11+, as well as for older readers.

Meet Kit - a 12 year old undergoing medical transition - as he talks about gender and the different ways it can be explored. He explains what it is like to transition and how his friends, family and teachers can help through talking, listening and being proactive.

With illustrations throughout, this is an ideal way to start conversations about gender diversity in the classroom or at home and suitable for those working in professional services and settings. The book also includes a useful list of recommended reading, organisations and websites for further information and support.

'A much needed piece of work! The pedagogies outlined in this book have made a positive, significant difference to the lives of young trans people in our schools. By following the practical strategies we can together begin the journey to inclusion. This guide will help you take the first steps to educate and then support you to create an environment that actively celebrates gender diversity! A definite go-to-guide for all schools.'
- Dr Elly Barnes MBE, CEO of Educate & Celebrate

Author: Sarah Savage and Fox Fisher, illustrated by Fox Fisher
Format: Paperback
Pages: 64
ISBN: 9781785921056

Feminism is a hot topic. The battle for gender equality is being fought by everybody from politicians to indie social media campaigners, celebrities to school girls. But how did we get here and who paved the way for today's badass women?

Fight Like a Girl profiles 50 fearless women - both the historical icons and the unsung heroes - such as Mary Wollstonecraft, Frida Kahlo and Roxane Gay. Each extraordinary life story is accompanied by a stunning portrait, along with eye-opening sidebars on their hard-fought causes and iconic quotes.

Be inspired by their stories, arm yourself with their knowledge, get active and FIGHT LIKE A GIRL.

Author: Laura Barcella
Format: Paperback
Pages: 254
ISBN: 9781786852045

Language is one of the key paths to awareness, acceptance and empowerment but honestly, it can be confusing for many people.

This easy-to-use dictionary introduces some of the most essential terminology surrounding gender, sexuality and LGBTQIA+ identity.

If you have questions about yourself or about the terminology, or even if you’re simply interested in learning more, this essential guide will help you navigate the world with knowledge and kindness.

Author: Harriet Dyer
Format: Paperback
Pages: 128
ISBN: 781786852847

Format: Paperback
Pages: 192
ISBN: 9781787752597

Suitable for 11 - 13 years.

“Allow me to introduce you to a remarkable book, full of love, wonder, hope, and the importance of getting to be who you were meant to be. You must read this.” – David Levithan, author of Every Day and editor of George.

When people look at George, they think they see a boy. But she knows she’s not a boy. She knows she’s a girl.

George thinks she’ll have to keep this a secret forever. Then her teacher announces that their class play is going to be Charlotte’s Web. George really, really, REALLY wants to play Charlotte.

But the teacher says she can’t even try out for the part . . . because she’s a boy.

Author: Alex Gino
Format: Paperback
Pages: 224
ISBN: 9781407170978

Martina Ramirez first started wearing her mother's shoes in secret in primary school, when everyone still knew her as Martin. Growing up in a conservative household as an adopted Mexican-American in a racially segregated city, she swore she would not be just another crime or teen pregnancy statistic.

Martina lived up to that promise when she was named student chosen to make the speech at the farewell ceremony at her secondary school, became a lecturer at a prestigious university and had a family. It was only then, after she had become established in her life and career, that she was able to finally be her true self.

HAPPIER AS A WOMAN is not just a story of one woman's transition. It is a story about relationships - those she fostered with herself, those that were hurt, those that were saved and those that would not have existed if not for Martina's desire to be a mentor, to be the change. Martina made it her mission to pave the way for all of those that would come after her - from women seeking to break through the glass ceiling to fellow victims of emotional abuse - regardless of who they appeared to be on the outside.

It's as though all the emotions she had to bottle up in her youth became stronger with age and they now tell of a compelling journey of acceptance, self-discovery and self-love. Martina's story is skilfully expressed through letters, anecdotes and powerful interviews conducted by and written alongside her renowned co-author, human rights advocate and biographer, Alicia Partnoy.

Author: Martina Giselle Ramirez & Alicia Partnoy
Format: Paperback
Pages: 240
ISBN: 9781627782388

This true story by a family about raising their transgender son is both a captivating read and an invaluable support source for parents facing similar issues. A warm, insightful portrait of a family that includes tips on helping young transgender people navigate their transition, it will support, educate and inspire.

This inspiring and moving story, told from the heart of an extraordinary family, recounts the emotional and uplifting journey of raising a transgender son.

Janna Barkin's family has come a long way since their child, Amaya, first told them he was a boy and not a girl and this captivating memoir charts the family's experiences of raising Amaya, from birth through to adulthood. With powerful chapters written by Amaya's family and friends, Janna shares personal stories of the support and discoveries her family has encountered and provides a 'care package' of advice for families facing similar issues, including a glossary of terms and a list of hand-picked support sources.

Written with warmth and humour, He's Always Been My Son reminds us to accept others for who they are and will support, educate and inspire anyone who reads it.

'What I love about this book is that it is a wonderful balance between a mother's love for her son and resources available to families who are navigating a similar journey. With different family members contributing to the story, the reader can see what this transition looks like from varying viewpoints.'
- Roz Gould Keith, President/Founder of Stand with Trans, parent of a transgender teen, and Creator of Ally Moms

'He's Always Been My Son does what no other book has, weaving together a mother's own reflections with inspiring words from the other key players ... capturing the essential truth that it takes a village to grow a thriving gender creative child.'
- Diane Ehrensaft, Ph.D., Director of Mental Health, Child and Adolescent Gender Center, UCSF, and author of Gender Born, Gender Made and The Gender Creative Child

Author: Janna Barkin
Format: Paperback
Pages: 320
ISBN: 9781785927478

Selected as a 2020 LGBTQIA+ Graphic Novel for Young Readers by Publishers Weekly

"When I was in school, everyone got to a certain age where they became interested in talking about only one thing: boys, girls and sex. Me though? I was only interested in comics."

Growing up, Rebecca assumes sex is just a scary new thing they will 'grow into' as they get older, but when they leave school, start working and do grow up, they start to wonder why they don't want to have sex with other people.

In this brave, hilarious and empowering graphic memoir, we follow Rebecca as they navigate a culture obsessed with sex - from being bullied at school and trying to fit in with friends, to forcing themself into relationships and experiencing anxiety and OCD - before coming to understand and embrace their asexual identity.

Giving unparalleled insight into asexuality and asexual relationships, How To Be Ace shows the importance of learning to be happy and proud of who you are.

Author: Rebecca Burgess
Format: Paperback
Pages: 184
ISBN: 9781787752153

WINNER OF THE POLARI BOOK PRIZE 2020

SHORTLISTED FOR THE BOLLINGER EVERYMAN WODEHOUSE PRIZE 2019

'Fleabag-level dirty jokes, Eleanor Oliphant-levels of empathy' Grazia
'Fresh and funny' Guardian
'Every woman should own a copy of this book' Erin Kelly

Until recently, Julia hadn't had sex in three years.

But now:
a one-night stand is accusing her of breaking his penis;

a sexually confident lesbian is making eyes at her over confrontational modern art;

and she's wondering whether trimming her pubes makes her a bad feminist.

Julia's about to learn that she's been looking for love - and satisfaction - in all the wrong places…

'Frank, funny and fabulously filthy' (Erin Kelly), In at the Deep End is a warm, brilliantly observed debut from a major new talent.

Author: Kate Davies
Format: Paperback
Pages: 389
ISBN: 9780008311384

There is no one way to be non-binary, and that's truthfully one of the best things about it. It's an identity that is yours to shape.

Combining light-hearted anecdotes with their own hard-won wisdom, Jamie Windust explores everything from fashion, dating, relationships and family, through to mental health, work and future key debates.

From trying on clothes in secret to iconic looks, first dates to polyamorous liaisons, passports to pronouns, Jamie shows you how to navigate the world and your evolving identity in every type of situation.

Frank, funny, and brilliantly feisty, this must-read book is a call to arms for non-binary self-acceptance, self-appreciation and self-celebration.

Author: Jamie Windust
Format: Paperback
Pages: 208
ISBN: 9781787752429

How does a young man from a small New England town become one of the most influential makers of exploitation films in the 1960s? How does the same filmmaker come to be a pioneer of hardcore sex movies in the 1970s and 1980s, including groundbreaking gay features? And how does that very same director move into mainstream productions for television networks like NBC in the 1990s?

In American Exxxtasy, John Amero charts his remarkable life and career at the forefront of the sexual revolution, while sharing what it was like to be a gay man living in the heart of New York City through the eras of Stonewall, LGBTQ rights and AIDS.

Suitable for 11+ years.

Lie #1: I’m not afraid.

Lie #2: I’m sure I’m doing the right thing.

Lie #3: I don’t care what they think of me.

It’s 1959. The battle for civil rights is raging. And it’s Sarah’s first day of school as one of the first black students at previously all-white Jefferson High. No one wants Sarah there. Not the Governor. Not the teachers. And certainly not the students – especially Linda, daughter of the town’s most ardent segregationist.

Sarah and Linda are supposed to despise each other. But the more time they spend together, the less their differences matter. And both girls start to feel something they’ve never felt before. Something they’re determined to ignore. Because it’s one thing to stand up to an unjust world – but another to be terrified of what’s in your own heart.

‘The main characters are terrific in what is a moving YA novel. And an important one.’ – The Telegraph’.

This is so thought-provoking it almost hurts to read it, yet every word is needed, is necessary and consequently this is a novel that lingers long after you’ve finished it’ – Lovereading.

‘This is an emotional and compelling read that I did not want to put down. It is [...]beautifully written and the tension just simmers on the pages.’ - Bookbabblers.

‘This book packs a very powerful punch’ – Historical Novel Society ‘With great characterisation, tough issues covered, and a plot which had me guessing right up until the last pages, this is a must-read. Massively recommended!’ – The Bookbag.

‘This exceptional novel of first love and sexual awakenings is set against a backdrop of shocking racism and prejudice. It is incredibly well written as the tense, riveting story seamlessly combines fiction with historical fact.’ – Booktrust.

‘Every now and then a Young Adult book comes along that I want to push into every readers hands both young and old and Lies We Tell Ourselves is that book for 2014’ – Jess Hearts Books.

‘Talley has mixed two controversial topics together to create a firecracker of a story’ – Cheryl M-M’s Book Blog.

Author: Robin Talley
Format: Paperback
Pages: 384
ISBN: 9781848452923

Challenging society's rigid and binary ways of thinking, this original work shows the limitations that binary thinking has regarding our relationships, wellbeing, sense of identity and more. Explaining how we can think and act in a less rigid manner, this fascinating book shows how life isn't binary.

'Barker and Iantaffi have written the book we all need for this moment in time.' - CN Lester

Much of society's thinking operates in a highly rigid and binary manner; something is good or bad, right or wrong, a success or a failure, and so on. Challenging this limited way of thinking, this ground-breaking book looks at how non-binary methods of thought can be applied to all aspects of life, and offer new and greater ways of understanding ourselves and how we relate to others.

Using bisexual and non-binary gender experiences as a starting point, this book addresses the key issues with binary thinking regarding our relationships, bodies, emotions, wellbeing and our sense of identity and sets out a range of practices which may help us to think in more non-binary, both/and, or uncertain ways.

A truly original and insightful piece, this guide encourages reflection on how we view and understand the world we live in and how we all bend, blur or break society's binary codes.

Author: Meg-John Barker and Alex Iantaffi. Foreword by CN Lester
Format: Paperback
Pages: 240
ISBN: 9781785924798

From the author of the Lambda Literary Award-winning story collection A Safe Girl to Love, Wendy Reimer is a thirty-year-old trans woman in Winnipeg who comes across evidence that her late grandfather - a devout Mennonite farmer - might have been transgender himself.

At first she dismisses this revelation, but as she and her friends struggle to cope with the challenges of their increasingly volatile lives - which range from alcoholism, to sex work, to suicide - Wendy is drawn to the lost pieces of her grandfather's life, becoming determined to unravel the mystery of his truth.

Suitable for 14 - 18 years.

The fourth novel from the phenomenally talented Alice Oseman – one of the most authentic and talked-about voices in contemporary YA.

It was all sinking in. I’d never had a crush on anyone. No boys, no girls, not a single person I had ever met. What did that mean?

Georgia has never been in love, never kissed anyone, never even had a crush – but as a fanfic-obsessed romantic she’s sure she’ll find her person one day.

As she starts university with her best friends, Pip and Jason, in a whole new town far from home, Georgia’s ready to find romance, and with her outgoing roommate on her side and a place in the Shakespeare Society, her ‘teenage dream’ is in sight.

But when her romance plan wreaks havoc amongst her friends, Georgia ends up in her own comedy of errors, and she starts to question why love seems so easy for other people but not for her. With new terms thrown at her – asexual, aromantic – Georgia is more uncertain about her feelings than ever.

Is she destined to remain loveless? Or has she been looking for the wrong thing all along?

This wise, warm and witty story of identity and self-acceptance sees Alice Oseman on towering form as Georgia and her friends discover that true love isn’t limited to romance.

Author: Alice Oseman
Format: Paperback
Pages: 448
ISBN: 9780008244125

Ages 6 - 9 years.

A comic style children's book that tells the story of Stephie, a 7-year-old transgender girl, whose Dad is still struggling to recognise and accept her gender. It portrays a powerful message for children aged 6-9, that no one else other than ourselves gets to decide who we are.

'My Dad thinks I'm a boy named Stephen who likes wrestling and fishing. But that's what my Dad likes.'

Stephie is 7 years old. She likes bugs, books and spaghetti. Also, she's a girl... which should be pretty easy to understand, right? Well, not for her Dad! He's been mistaking her for a boy since she was born and struggles to see her for who she is.

This powerful and uplifting book for children aged 6 - 9 and their families humorously portrays a situation that is often too common, where a trans child is forced to negotiate between their true self and their parents' love.

With amusing illustrations, and a useful guide for adults, it's the perfect book to help show children that no one else other than ourselves gets to decide who we are.

'Sophie Labelle's My Dad Thinks I'm A Boy is a hilarious, tender, zany, and thoughtful story about growing up with a parent who doesn't always understand you. Readers will laugh, cry, and learn along with Stephie as she tries to help her dad see her for who she truly is.'
- Kai Cheng Thom, award-winning author of From the Stars in the Sky to the Fish in the Sea

'A powerful, authentic and engaging story that shifts our understanding of trans kids to a new and a more real level. This book is a breath of fresh air, that allows the reader to get to know trans people from their own perspective. Often our stories are told from people from the outside looking in, but Sophie cleverly manages to shift that focus to the trans person and their experiences, which gives the story more authenticity, realness and power.'
- Owl (Ugla Stefanía Kristjönudóttir Jónsdóttir), writer, film maker and campaigner.

Author: Sophie Labelle
Format: Hardback
Pages: 48
ISBN: 9781787752214