Hello Rainbow List Fans! My name is Kevin (pronouns, He, Him, His, Himself) and I’m a school librarian in North Carolina. My area of interest is primary picture books and children’s novels.  In this post, I would like to share with you some of the picture books that have recently been nominated that I’ve been fortunate to read.

Phoenix Goes to School by Michelle and Phoenix Finch, illustrated by Sharon Davey.  Described as “A Story to Support Transgender and Gender Diverse Children”, which beautifully illustrates the feelings and emotions that can be found in a child whose gender identity doesn’t match their body.  Using the experience of attending school for the first time, Phoenix is afraid to wear a dress to school.  With the support of her family, Phoenix arrives at school and is able to overcome her fears.   With wonderful illustrations that bring the characters to life, this book is an excellent resource for teaching children that everyone has something beautiful and unique in them.

Prince and Knight by Daniel Haack, illustrated by Stevie Lewis.  “Once upon a time” as the story begins, provides the classic setting for this wonderful narrative based upon a fairytale theme.  With his parents concerned that he should find a bride, the prince feels that none of the young ladies that he meets have that “something special in a partner by my side.”  Then appears a vicious dragon that threatens to destroy the kingdom.  The prince rushes to defend the land and fortunately was not alone for also arrived just in time was a knight on horseback.  Through a struggle that saves both the prince and knight, the dragon was caught but not without a fight.  Luckily, the knight also caught the prince and saved the day.  Needless to say, the rest of the story illustrates how perfect the prince and knight were for each other and ends with a happy ever after.

Want to Play Trucks by Ann Stott and illustrated by Bob Graham is a story about two boys who are playground friends.  Though what they enjoy as toys are very different (Jack likes trucks, Alex likes dolls), the friends enjoy their time together.  The story builds on a series of play activities that require the boys to compromise.  The unique component of this story is that gender role and gender stereotypes are abandoned.  An excellent representation that what makes each person different and special can also be the bridge to what everyone has in common.  Inviting and warm illustrations make this book one that children will want to read again and again.

Visit the Rainbow List Blog regularly to see what other books are under consideration for next year!