Pride Month is a wonderful opportunity to share inclusive, affirming stories with children that highlight diverse families, gender identities, and self-expression. Picture books can open gentle, meaningful conversations for young readers, inviting them to understand and celebrate difference with love and joy.
Here are some carefully selected picture books that cover themes of gender, identity, family, and LGBTQ+ history — perfect for homeschoolers and families looking to expand their bookshelf with affirming stories for early elementary ages.
Featured Picture Books
My Rainbow – Deshanna Neal and Trinity Neal
Book Shop Allstora A joyful story co-written by a mother and her transgender daughter about creating a rainbow wig to help express her identity. Celebrates unconditional love and gender expression.
When Aidan Became a Brother – Kyle Lukoff, illustrated by Kaylani Juanita
Book Shop Allstora A trans boy prepares for his new sibling’s arrival, wanting them to feel supported in being whoever they are. Centers transgender identity, family love, and learning from past mistakes.
Grandad’s Camper – Harry Woodgate
Book Shop Allstora A young girl encourages her grieving Grandad to take their camper out again, reigniting joyful memories of adventures with his late partner. Highlights intergenerational queer love and healing.
From the Stars in the Sky to the Fish in the Sea – Kai Cheng Thom and Kai Yun Ching, illustrated by Wai-Yant Li
Book Shop Allstora A lyrical, dreamlike story of a child who is neither boy nor girl, both, and more. Explores identity, self-acceptance, and a parent’s fierce support.
Red: A Crayon’s Story – Michael Hall
Book Shop Allstora A metaphorical tale about a crayon labeled “red” that’s actually blue. Explores themes of mislabeling, identity, and the importance of being seen for who you truly are.
Looking for some Non Fiction? Try these picks
Pride: The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag by Rob Sanders, illustrated by Steven Salerno
Book Shop Allstora This beautifully illustrated picture book tells the inspiring story of Harvey Milk, one of the first openly gay elected officials in the United States, and the creation of the iconic rainbow flag. It highlights Milk’s courage, activism, and enduring legacy in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, making it an accessible introduction to Pride history for young readers.
⚠️ Content Warning: This picture book covers LGBTQ+ history, including political activism and the assassination of Harvey Milk. It touches on themes of discrimination and violence but in an age-appropriate, gentle manner.
Stonewall: A Building. An Uprising. A Revolution. by Rob Sanders, illustrated by Jamey Christoph
Book Shop This vibrant picture book explores the historic Stonewall uprising of 1969, a pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ history that sparked a global movement for equality and justice. Through vivid illustrations and clear text, it introduces young readers to the bravery of those who stood up against discrimination and helped ignite the fight for queer liberation.
⚠️ Content Warning: This picture book depicts the Stonewall uprising, introducing themes of protest and resistance against discrimination. It includes references to police raids and conflict, presented sensitively for younger readers.
Discussion Questions and Activities
My Rainbow
- How did Trinity feel when she couldn’t find the wig she wanted?
- What does it mean to express yourself?
- How did Trinity’s mom help her feel more like herself?
- Can you think of a time someone helped you feel special?
Activity: Create Your Own Rainbow Hair!
Use colored paper, scissors, and glue to make a rainbow wig, just like Trinity’s. Add stickers and glitter to personalize it. Use this craft to talk about identity and self-expression. Head template can be found here.
When Aidan Became a Brother
- What does Aidan want for the new baby?
- Why was it important for Aidan to pick his own name?
- How do we make others feel safe to be themselves?
- What are some ways to show love in a family?
Activity: Build a Love Basket
Fill a basket with kind messages or drawings for someone special, like a new baby or friend. Decorate it and talk about love and acceptance.
Grandad’s Camper
- Why did Grandad stop using the camper?
- What helped Grandad feel ready for new adventures?
- How do we keep memories of people we love?
- What adventures would you like to have with someone you love?
Activity: Draw Your Dream Camper
Design and decorate a camper on paper. Imagine where you’d go and who would join you. Find a template of a camper to color here.
From the Stars in the Sky to the Fish in the Sea
- How does the child in the story feel about being neither boy nor girl?
- What does their parent say to help them feel brave?
- What makes you unique and magical?
- Have you ever felt left out for being different?
Activity: Create a Magical Creature
Draw or collage a magical creature made from things you love (stars, colors, waves). Give it a name and write or tell what makes it special.
Red: A Crayon’s Story
- Why were people confused about Red?
- How did Red feel when he couldn’t do what others expected?
- Who helped Red discover his true color?
- What did you learn about being yourself?
Activity: “What’s My True Color?” Crayon Craft
On a blank crayon template, write a label someone might assume about you on the outside. Inside, show your true color — your real interests or personality. Talk about being yourself beyond labels. Template file here.
Actionable Step: Share a Rainbow Story
Choose a picture book that celebrates Pride, LGBTQ+ families, or queer characters — especially one that has been challenged or banned — and donate it to a Little Free Library, your local library (check first), or a classroom.
When you share the book, explain:
“Some people don’t want books about different families or LGBTQ+ people in schools. But these stories help kids feel seen and loved. Sharing them helps everyone feel welcome.”
Ask your child:
- Why is it important to share books about all kinds of people?
- How do you feel when you read stories showing families like ours or our friends’?
Optional: Have your child draw a rainbow or write a note to include with the donation.
Bonus: Get a Printable Version!
Want a handy printable version of this picture book guide? Grab it [here on Canva] — perfect for easy reference or sharing with friends and your homeschool community!
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