Top Picks
Children’s books to celebrate World Pride
Words by Bloomsbury | 10 Feb 2023
Bloomsbury is proud to publish many amazing books for children and teens with LGBTQI+ themes and authors. These are such fantastic reads, you won’t be able to put them down!
So why not celebrate World Pride (17th February – 5th March) by stocking up your family bookshelves or school library - or give one as a gift!
Order today from your local bookshop or online.
Picture books for kids
Out of the Blue by Robert Tregoning (Author) and Stef Murphy (Illustrator)
A stunning celebration of being yourself and living in ALL the colours of the rainbow, from debut author Robert Tregoning and rising star illustrator Stef Murphy. Championing difference, diversity and pride, this gloriously illustrated picture book is perfect for fans of Perfectly Norman, Grandad's Camper and Julian Is a Mermaid.
Introducing Teddy by Jessica Walton (Author), Dougal MacPherson (Illustrator)
A sweet and gentle story about being true to yourself and being a good friend, Introducing Teddy can also help children understand gender identity.
“This book beautifully changes the narrative of gender and gender roles, but fair warning- the hug scene might bring a tear or two.” - Kirkus Reviews
"A useful resource for adults broaching conversations about transgender issues with little ones." - Booklist
Jessica Walton
Perfectly Norman by Tom Percival
Norman had always been perfectly normal . . . until the day he grew a pair of wings!
This is the second book in Tom Percival's Big Bright Feelings series to become available as a board book - the perfect size for little hands!
"A sweet and truly uplifting story that celebrates diversity [...] and inspires children to dare to be different and have the courage to stand out." - BookTrust
Tom Percival
For ages 8-11
Cameron Battle and the Hidden Kingdoms by Jamar J. Perry
Percy Jackson meets Black Panther - this blockbuster middle-grade adventure is perfect for fans of Jane Doe and the Cradle of All Worlds and Wilbur Smith's Cloudburst.
Inspired by West African and Igbo history and mythology, this adventure-filled fantasy introduces readers to Cameron Battle as he begins his journey to greatness.
"Atmospheric, absorbing and twisty, with great voices and so many original ideas." - Clare Weze
Jamar J. Perry
Books for teens
Forging Silver into Stars by Brigid Kemmerer
Rediscover the worlds of Emberfall and Syhl Shallow in this irresistible return to Brigid Kemmerer's New York Times bestselling Cursebreaker series.
"I couldn't get this creative, suspenseful take on Beauty and the Beast out of my head" - Sara Holland, New York Times bestselling author of EVERLESS on A CURSE SO DARK AND LONELY
This Poison Heart by Kalynn Bayron
Cinderella is Dead author Kalynn Bayron brings a message of proud inclusivity to this empowering fantasy about a young woman finding the strength to challenge everything she has been told is true.
Spin Me Right Round by David Valdes
Meet Luis. He's out, he's proud ... and, although he doesn't know it yet, he's about to travel back in time to save a closeted student called Chaz from a tragic end.
Get ready for an irresistible YA novel that puts an Own Voices twist on Back to the Future. Perfect for fans of Adam Silvera, Becky Albertalli and Casey McQuiston, this hilarious, intersectional time-slip adventure will make you laugh, cry and think.
YA books coming soon
HappyHead by Josh Silver
When Seb is offered a place on a radical retreat designed to solve the national crisis of teenage unhappiness, he is determined to change how people see him and make his parents proud. But as he finds himself drawn to the enigmatic Finn, Seb starts to question the true nature of the challenges they must undergo. The deeper into the programme the boys get, the more disturbing the assessments become, until it's clear there may be no escape...
"Dark and thrilling" - Taron Egerton
Gwen and Art Are Not in Love by Lex Croucher
When Gwen catches Art kissing a boy and Art discovers where Gwen hides her diary (complete with racy entries about Bridget Leclair, the kingdom's only female knight), they become reluctant allies. By pretending to fall for each other, their mutual protection will be assured.
But how long can they keep up the ruse?
"A delightful, heart-warming, hilarious historical romp, overflowing with queer panic and terrible jokes. I loved it." - Alice Oseman, bestselling author of HEARTSTOPPER
Lex Croucher
Catfish Rolling by Clara Kumagai
A dazzling debut. Magic-realism blends with Japanese myth and legend in an original story about grief, memory, time and an earthquake that shook a nation.
Stylish, accomplished and thought-provoking story-telling explores themes of identity, philosophy, science, ecology, life, loss and love.
"Excellent, evocative and thoughtful with genuine depth" - Nicola Yoon, bestselling author of EVERYTHING, EVERYTHING
She Is a Haunting by Trang Thanh Tran
This deliciously spooky, yearningly romantic ghost story from a brilliant debut author will thrill fans of Kalynn Bayron and Wilder Girls by Rory Power.
