As LGBTQ+ moms, we know how important it is for our kids to see themselves and their families represented in the books they read. These stories aren't just entertainment — they're powerful tools that show our children their families are normal, loved, and celebrated.
In this article, we've curated a selection of LGBTQ-inclusive children's books, organized by age group. From colorful board books for your littlest ones to chapter books for older kids, each reinforces a crucial message: Your family is perfect just the way it is.
Up to 4 Years Old
My Two Moms and Me by Michael Joosten (Author) and Izak Zenou (Illustrator)
This board book celebrates two-mom families through a heartwarming day-in-the-life story. Young readers join a loving pair of mothers and their child as they savor breakfast, enjoy a playdate, and swim together before settling down for a cozy bedtime story.
Love Makes a Family by Sophie Beer
This vibrant board book celebrates love in all kinds of families, whether they have two moms, two dads, one parent, or something else. Each page captures joyful moments, from baking a cake to lending a helping hand. With cheerful illustrations and engaging text, Love Makes a Family highlights that the most important aspect of any family is the love that brings them together.
Mommy, Mama, and Me by Lesléa Newman (Author) and Carol Thompson (Illustrator)
With simple, rhythmic text and charming illustrations, this heartwarming board book celebrates the love between moms and their baby. It captures a typical day in their lives together, from playing hide-and-seek and dress-up to enjoying bath time and sharing a goodnight kiss.
The Family Book by Todd Parr
With colorful illustrations, playful humor, and inclusive storytelling, this beloved classic by New York Times bestselling author Todd Parr celebrates the diverse world of families. Whether families are big or small, look similar or not, and have one parent or two, each is unique. Yet they’re all bound by the universal force of love.
Up to 6 Years Old
Heather Has Two Mommies by Lesléa Newman (Author) and Laura Cornell (Illustrator)
When Heather starts school, a classmate asks about her daddy, and Heather happily explains that she doesn’t have one. As the children draw pictures of their families, Heather learns that every family is unique. Originally published in 1989, this beloved book has been revitalized with new watercolor illustrations that bring Heather’s story to life for a fresh generation of readers.
Who's Your Real Mom? by Bernadette Green (Author) and Anna Zobel (Illustrator)
Elvi has two moms, but when her friend Nicholas asks which one is her real mom, she explains that they both are. Written with a light and humorous touch, this poignant story features Elvi sharing clues about her amazing moms, including one who’s a circus performer and a pirate.
And Tango Makes Three by Justin Richardson (Author), Peter Parnell (Author), and Henry Cole (Illustrator)
And Tango Makes Three is the best-selling true story of two penguins, Roy and Silo, at New York City's Central Park Zoo. Inspired by other penguin couples, they long to become parents. After bringing an egg-shaped rock to their nest, a kind zookeeper recognizes their desire and gives them an egg to care for. With dedication and love, Roy and Silo hatch their adorable daughter, Tango.
Up to 8 Years Old
In Our Mothers' House by Patricia Polacco (Author, Illustrator)
In Our Mothers' House tells the heartwarming story of a Black girl growing up in Berkeley, California, with her two Caucasian moms, Marmee and Meema. Together with her Asian brother and red-headed sister, they enjoy a loving home filled with laughter, dancing, and family activities.
Despite the joy in their lives, the family faces challenges, including disapproval from a neighbor who questions their family structure. However, Marmee and Meema remind their children that different doesn’t mean wrong. As the kids grow up, marry, and return home with their own families, they carry the love and acceptance their mothers taught them, showing that their family is just as valid as any other.
Up to 12 Years Old
This Would Make a Good Story Someday by Dana Alison Levy (Author)
This Would Make a Good Story Someday follows Sara Johnston-Fischer, whose summer plans take an unexpected turn when her writer mom wins a month-long cross-country train trip. Instead of spending time with friends, Sara finds herself traveling with her moms and younger sister.
Sara's mom wants to write a tell-all book about their adventures, which Sara dreads — she's not eager to relive every embarrassing moment of her life. To avoid contributing, she retreats into her journal. As they journey across the country, Sara gradually begins to change. Amidst the chaos of travel and new experiences, she discovers a newfound sense of self.
Love, Penelope by Joanne Rocklin (Author) and Lucy Knisley (Illustrator)
Ten-year-old Penelope is eagerly awaiting the arrival of her new sibling. Throughout her mom’s pregnancy, she writes heartfelt letters to her future sibling, introducing herself and her moms, Mama and Sammy.
As Penny navigates the ups and downs of her life, she also contemplates bigger questions, such as her moms' relationship and marriage equality. Through illustrated journal entries, she candidly expresses her fears, insecurities, and joys. Ultimately, Penny's letters are an honest exploration of love, identity, and family.
