June is Pride Month! Here are some recently published and upcoming books about LBGTQ+ history and inclusion from Magination Press that are great for current celebrations, and all year long.
Bernice Sandler and the Fight for Title IX by Jen Barton
Title IX was designed to fight injustice based on gender. Today it’s protections extend to the transgender community.
Bernice Sandler and the Fight for Title IX is a lively engaging biography that drives home the message that it doesn’t take a person with power to make a difference. More often, it takes determination. When confronted with injustice, regular people can effect change. Includes extensive backmatter about how to be an activist.
Read an interview with the author.
Stitch By Stitch: Cleve Jones and the AIDS Memorial Quilt by Rob Sanders
Mentored by Harvey Milk, Cleve Jones first had the vision for what became the AIDS Memorial Quilt during a candlelight memorial for Milk in 1985. Along with friends, Cleve created the first panels for the quilt in 1987. The AIDS Memorial Quilt grew to be one of the largest public arts projects ever and helped grow awareness of HIV and AIDS. The Quilt is an iconic symbol of hope and remembrance and is Jones’ shining achievement. It has since toured the world and been seen by millions.
★ It’s story is beautifully captured in the book’s smooth pacing and brief paragraphs. Readers will follow its journey from that march as it becomes both a monument to mourning and a means of changing the stigma surrounding HIV and AIDS…the book is pretty darn impressive. Storytelling and history, beautifully stitched together. —Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW
Chicago Public Library’s Best of the Best Books
Bronze Award, Florida Book Awards
Read an excerpt from the discussion guide.
Listen to the author read Stitch By Stitch aloud.
Evelyn Hooker and the Fairy Project by Gayle E. Pitman, PhD
This evocative biography tells the story of Evelyn Hooker, the extraordinary woman behind the research, advocacy, and allyship that led to the removal of the “Homosexuality” diagnosis from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
“A true story of true allyship… this offers helpful materials for young researchers and audiences curious about LGBTQ+ history… Offers interesting information on a lesser-known hero.” —Kirkus Reviews
NSTA-CBC Outstanding Science Trade Book
Read an excerpt from the Note to Readers about becoming an ally.
They’re So Flamboyant by Michael Genhart, PhD
This fun and funny bird’s-eye tome to individuality, community, and harmony follows the reactions of a neighborhood full of birds when a “flamboyance” of flamingos moves in.
“Clever book about stereotypes, uncomfortable feelings, acceptance, and inclusion. What’s more, readers will also learn about birds…The book, full of wordplay and alliteration, includes a list of birds and their associated collective nouns..” —Booklist
Read an excerpt from the Note to Readers about inclusion.
Hear the author read They’re So Flamboyant aloud.
And coming soon, in October 2022:
The Mother of a Movement: Jeanne Manford—Ally, Activist, and Co-Founder of PFLAG by Rob Sanders
This is a true story of parental support and unconditional love. When the son of Jeanne Manford, the cofounder of PFLAG, was beaten by New York City officials for handing out pro-gay leaflets, Manford wrote a powerful letter that was published in the New York Post. She came out as the mother of a gay son. Morty invited his mother to march with him in the June 1972 Christopher Street Parade. While marching, she had the idea to form a group to help parents and families of LGBTQ+ people. That was the beginning of PFLAG.
Magination Press is proud to offer books for kids and teens that celebrate LBGTQ+ voices and promote inclusive school and family values. Our books:
- are evidence-based and written by child development experts
- come with guides for caregivers and resources to further books’ messaging in the classroom, in the community, and at home
- backed by the American Psychological Association’s mission to benefit society and improve lives
