LGBT+ picture books: Top recommended reads from writer and teacher Ian Eagleton

Published on: 08 July 2021

Here are six wonderful picture books on a range of topics, from shyness to grandparents and friendships to everyday sunny days – all representing a diverse range of families.

As a gay man who never saw himself in picture books, it’s thrilling that we have so many wonderful LBGT+ inclusive picture books out at the moment!

My husband and I are currently going through the adoption process – an exciting, exhausting, and incredibly rewarding journey – and so I have chosen to focus on the beautiful, heart-warming picture books that I’ve enjoyed recently that celebrate and champion diverse families and relationships.

1. My Daddies! by Gareth Peters and Garry Parsons

My husband and I have been going through the adoption process for a year and a half now, so this bright, vibrant book, which introduces young children to different kinds of families, fills me with happiness. There are dragons to battle, dinosaurs to dodge and space adventures to be had, but the stand-out moment for me is when our two dads share their child’s life story and the joy that the adoption process has brought them.

Read our book review of My Daddies!

2. Plenty of Hugs by Fran Manushkin and Kip Alizadeh

Illustration by Kip Alizadeh, from the front cover of Plenty of Hugs

Two loving mummies spend a sunny day with their toddler in this cosy, bouncy rhyming picture book, which again celebrates different families. Kip Alizadeh’s beautiful, soft illustrations are full of tender warmth and Fran Manushkin’s lulling and mesmerising language means this is the perfect bedtime read.

3. Grandad’s Camper by Harry Woodgate

Illustration from the front cover of Grandad's Camper

Gramps has died and so Grandad hides their beloved camper van away. But when his granddaughter visits, she encourages him to remember their travels – perhaps Grandad can find a way to carry on? Dreamy, tender artwork and a beautiful, lyrical story makes this a must-have picture book about loss, sadness, honouring those we love, and the importance of family.

Read our review of Grandad's Camper

4. The Boys by Lauren Ace and Jenny Lovlie

Illustration from the book The Boys by Lauren Ace and Jenny Lovlie

This inclusive, beautiful book explores the importance of talking, male friendship, and the need to challenge toxic masculinity. There’s a stunning illustration at the end of the story where we watch one of ‘the boys’, now an adult, marry his husband. It sparkles with joy and takes my breath away.

Read our review of The Boys

5. The Pirate Mums by Jodie Lancet-Grant and Lydia Corry

Illustration from the book Pirate Mums by Jodie Lancet-Grant and Lydia Corry

Billy has two pirates for mums who love to dance jigs and sing sea shanties, and a pet parrot called Birdbrain. He wishes his family could be more like everyone else's. But then a swashbuckling journey changes everything! A glorious adventure full of humour, heart and love!

Read our review of The Pirate Mums

6. Violet’s Tempest by Ian Eagleton and Clara Anganuzzi

Illustration by Clara Anganuzzi, from the front cover of Violet’s Tempest

Violet’s world has changed. Her voice has gone from a giggle to a whisper. So, when her teacher casts her in the school play, she is filled with worry. How will she ever stand in front of a crowd and overcome her shyness? With the love and support of her family, including Uncle Tony and his husband Uncle Sebastian, Violet must find her inner confidence and turn that whisper into a roar!

Ian Eagleton is the author of Nen and the Lonely Fisherman, illustrated by James Mayhew. Published by Owlet Press, £7.99 picture book, out now. www.owletpress.com