This Day in June

March 31, 2014
Punchy rhymes like “Motors roaring/ Spirits soaring/ Voices chanting/ Doggies panting,” could describe any number of jubilant summer parades; add in “Clad in leather/ Perfect weather,” and the field narrows. Pitman, in her first book for children, salutes the LGBT parades that take place across the U.S. in June. Her couplets keep things marching steadily forward, but it’s Litten’s artwork that creates a sense of joyous excitement and showcases the diversity on display. Wisely, Litten only outlines the happy crowds and buildings in the background (placards reading “Born This Way” and “= Rights” are everywhere), saving color and detail for the marchers themselves. Organizations like the Human Rights Campaign and San Francisco’s elaborately costumed Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence appear, along with smiling politicians, women on motorcycles, shirtless dancers, and genderqueer drag queens with flowing gowns, feathered headpieces, and facial hair. Children are in the mix throughout, as well, driving home the underlying message: “All invited/ All excited.” Substantial endnotes discuss each scene and provide context for the people and groups represented, along with parental tips for discussing gender and sexuality. Ages 4–8.

June 1, 2014

PreS-Gr 2-Filled with saturated colors and vivid illustrations, this picture book uses rhyming couplets to convey the fun and exuberate feelings assocated with a pride parade for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people and families. For example, "Rainbow arches/Joyful marches/Motors roaring/Spirits soaring." The cartoon artwork is richly detailed and capture the "Banners swaying/Children playing." The diversity shown at the pride parade is realistic; both homosexual and heterosexual people, young and old, are depicted as well as individuals, couples, and families. At the end of the book, a "Reading Guide" provides explanations for the images and allusions in the book. Additionally, a "Note to Parents and Caregivers" offers suggestions for talking to various age levels of children about LGBT families. This beautifully illustrated book is a great addition to a school or personal library to add diversity in a responsible manner without contributing to stereotypes about LGBT people.-April Sanders, Spring Hill College, Mobile, AL

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