Pride by Eric Huang, with illustrations by Amy Phelps, is a sweet introduction to Pride celebrations aimed at kids ages 5 to 7 (or kindergarten through second grade).
The story is narrated by Brian, a little boy who is getting ready to celebrate Pride with his dads. He and his friends at school are learning about Pride, and their teacher weaves in LGBTQ+ historical figures throughout the year. (he book mentions Freddy Mercury, Alexander the Great, Josephine Baker and Gus Kenworthy. I didn’t know that last one but he’s a British-American freestyle skier.
The kids make posters for Pride in class and kids go to different events such as a Pride event at a museum, a crafting day where they make bracelets and a drag queen story time at the library. As they go through the events different kids decide how they want to dress for Pride, but Brian has a hard time deciding.
His dads tell him: “it doesn’t matter what you wear…what’s important is that you’re at the parade to show your support — and have fun.”
But when they are making colorful flags for the parade Brian is inspired to make outfits that reflect the beautiful rainbow of chosen family that is what Pride is all about.
The illustrations are colorful and inclusive, with lots of skin tones, fashion styles and family structures represented. The message of love and joy comes through as well as the reminder that Pride isn’t just a weekend or even a whole month, but something to celebrate all year.
The back of the book includes factual information about Stonewall (which it calls a protest and an uprising but doesn’t get into the details), other protests for LGBTQIA+ equality (and what the acronym means), the history of Pride and when it is celebrated in different places around the world, information on LGBTQ+ History Month (which is in October) and the history of and meaning behind the Pride flags.
Crafts include making a Pride flag out of construction paper and baking rainbow cookies. There’s even a quiz at the back to test what you’ve learned.
Pride is a great book for kids whose families celebrate Pride or include LGBTQ+ members, or to help answer questions about what Pride is and why it is celebrated. It would be a good one to have at home or in the classroom.
About the book: 48 pages, hardcover. Published 2025 by words & pictures. Suggested retail price $14.99.
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