A young family member of mine had a perfectly normal childhood experience with a classmate but because they go to a catholic school it got blown way out of proportion and they have now been asked to spend less time with each other. The child is feeling shame despite not quite understanding what they did "wrong". I would love to get them a book that gently let's them know exploration is normal and not something to be ashamed of without it being like "hey i know that thing you did let's talk about queerness". They are quite a mature reader and like non fiction as well as fantasy/magic themes. I think 8-13 years would suit their personality and reading ability.
I know it's a bit niche but appreciate any constructive input. Thank you.
by Nervous-Muffin-
5 Comments
It’s not explicitly a queer book but The Girl Who Could Fly is about a girl who has to hide her ability to fly and then goes away to a school where she is told she’ll get to flourish around kids like her. But the school ends up being a place where they’re trying to make all the kids normal and forget their power.
How to be a Girl in the World by Caela Carter is about a tween girl struggling with unwanted male attention and her Catholic school makes her feel like she was in the wrong when a boy snaps her bra strap. It has a happy ending, but there are some mature themes, so you may want to read it yourself before giving it to your family member. For books with more LGBTQ+ themes, maybe check out the author Alex Gino.
Did your title autocorrect to “quietness” when you meant “queerness?” Because I have suggestions for each, but I want to make sure I give the right one!
Anything by Alex Gino. Both Can be True by Jules Machias.
I’m not sure which book is right for your specific situation, but some options to consider:
Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World by Ashley Herring-Blake
The Language of Seabirds by Will Taylor
Upstaged by Robin Easter
Thanks a Lot, Universe by Chad Lucas
Crushing It by Erin Becker
The Best At It by Maulik Pancholy
Drum Roll Please by Lisa Jenn Bigelow
Both Can Be True by Jules Machias
Turning Twelve by Kathryn Ormsbee
Spin with Me by Ami Polonsky
The Whispers by Greg Howard
Star-Crossed by Barbara Dee
The Love Report by Beka
Kenzie Kickstarts a Team by Kit Rosewater
Princess Princess Ever After by Katie O’Neill
Mooncakes by Suzanne Walker
Almost Flying by Jake Maia Arlow