
A solid reminder that respect for individuality and personal preferences is paramount – even with young children.Ī somewhat predictable storyline, Henry Holton Takes the Ice is best-suited to children aged 5 and up. It is disappointing to think that Henry had to “bench himself” for weeks in order to be heard. Henry’s grandmother is the first family member to accept his choice but others soon follow and celebrate his goal of becoming an ice dancer.Īs someone who has spent quite a lot of time in hockey rinks, I found it surprising to see Henry on the ice without hockey gloves and a helmet. When Henry gets a chance to see a local ice dancing club at the arena, he decides that is where he belongs. Henry prefers to twist, turn and sway on the ice rather than bodycheck an opponent.

Henry does learn to skate but his unconventional style is not quite right for the sport. Henry’s family LOVES hockey! His sister plays, his parents play, his cousins play and everyone assumes that Henry will play hockey too.

Henry Holton Takes the Ice written by Sandra Bradley and illustrated by Sara PalaciosĬhildren’s book about individuality and following one’s dream published by Dial Books for Young Readers Together, Bailey and Laurel design dresses that, “ show us OURSELVES.ġ0,000 Dresses is on the 2009 American Library Association Rainbow Book List and was found to be “exceptional and highly recommended.” At the end of her block, she meets an older girl who wants to create dresses but lacks creative inspiration. When Bailey tells her mom, dad and brother of her dreams and her wish to have dresses like the ones in her dreams, they each dismiss her and remind her that she is a boy and boys don’t wear dresses!įortunately, Bailey runs away from her house and her family’s closed minds. She imagines one dress made of crystals and another made of lilies, roses and honeysuckles. When Bailey dreams, her thoughts turn to dresses and how wonderful it would be to try each one of them on. Picture book that explores gender identity and stereotypes published by Triangle Square

Thank you.ġ0,000 Dresses written by Marcus Ewert and illustrated by Rex Ray If you would like to suggest additional picture books, please email or leave a comment. We want to share valuable resources for children, families, teachers and librarians. Picture books that explore gender stereotypes – We have done our best to include stories that feature boys and girls enjoying activities that might be traditionally be labelled “feminine” or “masculine.” As well, you will find picture books that can be used to provoke discussion about stereotypes and acceptance and others that specifically address gender identity and gender dysphoria.
