Published by Lee and Low Books
Published by Henry Holt and Co.
Summary: Aidan is concerned about the new baby that’s coming to his house. Suppose his parents don’t recognize the new baby’s correct gender? That’s what happened to Aidan. His parents thought he was a girl, and it took a few years to convince them that he was really a boy. Finally, his mom reassures him: “We made some mistakes, but you helped us fix them. And you taught us how important it is to love someone for exactly who they are. This baby is so lucky to have you, and so are we.” The gender of the baby is never revealed, but they are fortunate to have such a loving and accepting family. Families who may be struggling with acceptance could benefit from It Feels Good to Be Yourself, which defines the terms transgender, cisgender, and non-binary, giving examples of kids who describe themselves in each of these ways. The conclusion here: “Your feelings about your gender are real. Listen to your heart. No matter what your gender identity is, you are okay exactly the way you are.” 32 pages (Aidan) and 40 pages; ages 4-8.
Pros: Love and acceptance is good for everyone, and these two books help create more of it for kids and families who may be working through issues of gender identity.
Cons: There’s a certain free-to-be-you-and-me earnestness, particularly with It Feels Good to Be Yourself, which may feel dated when different gender identities become more a part of the culture.
If you would like to buy When Aidan Became a Brother, click here.
If you would like to buy It Feels Good to Be Yourself, click here.
