22 LGBTQ-friendly picture books to read with your kids 🏳️‍🌈

With a rainbow mohawk, bright leggings and unicorn T-shirts, Rob Kearney doesn’t look like other champion strongmen. But that doesn’t mean he can’t achieve his big dreams of becoming the strongest man in the world. Filled with colorful illustrations, this biographical story reminds kids (and parents!) that being your true self is not only allowed, but encouraged.

A clever twist on the classic tale, Mighty Red Riding Hood tells the story of Little Red–a boy who loves nothing more than wearing his favorite frilly red hood. And nothing–not even a big old wolf bully–can convince him to be anything but himself.

This whimsically illustrated story serves as a good reminder that all families are different—but they’re all special in their own way.

When Keith knows he feels different from other cats and feels more comfortable around pigeons, he begins to question who he really is. Can he find a way to be himself? A great book to have a discussion on identity and accepting who we become.

Casey is a little boy who loves blocks + trucks, but he also loves things that sparkle + shimmer. This heartwarming story assures little boys that it’s okay to challenge gender stereotypes and just be yourself.

It’s Stella’s Mother’s Day celebration at school—but Stella has two dads. What will she do?

Love is love is love (even if it’s between two worms 😉) and should be celebrated in all its amazing forms!

Pink isn’t just for girls—it’s for boys, too. This thought-provoking picture book challenges gender stereotypes and assures kids that it’s wonderful to enjoy what you love.

The bestselling heartwarming story of two boy penguins in the Central Park Zoo who created their own nontraditional family.

Cedric is on a journey to become a knight, but finds himself having to be brave in his own fairytale. Full of dragons and princesses, it has a sweet LGBTQ ending.

This bright, colorful picture book sends the important message that even though families may look different, they all share one important thing: love.

This beautifully illustrated picture book tells the story of a little boy named Julián who is inspired when he sees three women dressed as mermaids while he’s riding the subway. It’s a subtle but powerful story of self-exploration and self-acceptance.

This fun, silly book packs a powerful message: that no matter the size or the makeup, if you love each other, you are a family!

The first picture book to tell the story and history of the Rainbow Pride Flag.

Whether they identify as transgender or not, this book about the real life experiences of Jazz Jennings, a spokesperson for transkids everywhere, is a must read.

This modern classic has recently been relaunched with gorgeous new illustrations for a new generation, and will help little ones to understand that not all families are made up of a mom and a dad.

A story about tolerance & unconditional love, this book is based on the author’s son and her initial struggles to understand what he was going through.

This sweet, funny story about a little girl who loves costumes (and happens to have two dads) is both fun for kids to read and a great way to normalize families with same sex parents.

Children with two moms will see themselves reflected in this sweet, rhythmic story about a loving family.

A companion to Mommy, Mama, and Me , this board book is perfect for families with two dads.

This is a sweet story about gender identity, friendship and learning to accept a person for who they truly are.

This heartwarming, reassuring story speaks to the unique challenges of boys who don’t fit the stereotypical ‘norm.’