Violet Tobacco

Tori's dad is going to be the class mystery reader today, and Tori is psyched to help him transform into his drag identity, Miss Rita Book! But as preparations ensue, Tori gets less enthusiastic and starts to withdraw, finally admitting they just want their class to love Miss Rita as much as they do. Miss Rita knows of a great way to boost a little confidence, and shows up at school accompanied by a new assistant: Miss Tori Teller! Lovely story that celebrates the glitz and glam, explains a show more bit about drag culture, and normalizes gender fluidity. The authors' note gives a bit more "dictionary definitions" about transgender and gender nonbinary people, as well as a little drag history (herstory) and bio on the authors. (I thought it was very strange that they didn't include any information or kudos to the illustrator in this space, though.) The illustrations are bright and sparkly and show lots of expression, and the two cats are fun to watch in the background of almost every page. show less

loving, celebratory window into a young child’s relationship with their nonbinary parent.

The latest in Pitman’s LGBTQ books for children introduces young readers to a parent whose gender identity and expression are “entirely fantastically their own”—not a mommy or a daddy, but “my Maddy.” Told from the perspective of a light-skinned, redheaded child, the story normalizes what’s “in between, and kind of both,” which is everywhere in nature, from dawn (“it’s not day and show more it’s not night,” Maddy explains) to the color hazel (a mix between green and brown). Vignettes from the main characters’ everyday lives are vibrantly depicted in artist Tobacco’s bold, full-bleed illustrations, including walks to school, snacktime, and stories before bed. Particularly noteworthy is the heartwarming scene when Maddy kisses their kid goodbye before dropping them off at school: Beside a glowing portrait of the beaming family, the text reads, “Maddy’s kisses feel like sandpaper against my face.” Such positive images of gender-nonconforming presentations are rare in children’s literature, making this a valuable addition to any school, public, or personal library for its engaging art and accessible representation for a wide age range. The adult-oriented backmatter uses person-first language and identifies the book’s inspiration as intersex; notes on intersex identity and supporting children in understanding their parents’ genders are accompanied by resources. Unfortunately, one of these is the Human Rights Campaign, known for its fraught relationship with trans communities.

Much needed in the landscape of family-oriented picture books. (Picture book. 4-9)

-Kirkus Review show less

This was an interesting nonfiction book. It’s not a graphic novel, but leans heavily on graphic novel coloring and art. It is set up as a nonfiction book and while the information is fun and important, it feels very redundant with how things are laid out. Having said that, I know kids will check this book out repetitively if you put it on shelves.

non-binary parent!!!