Thanks to the internet, television and books, there is a greater opportunity to learn more about subjects like gender identity issues in children. Many picture books are available for children 4-8 years old including Morris Micklewhite and the Tangerine Dress, Princess Boy, Jacob’s New Dress and I Am Jazz. There is also a TV show about transgender teen Jazz Jennings.  Plus numerous middle grade novels for 8-12 year-olds, and young adult novels for 12 and older.

I finally had an opportunity to read a middle grade novel that has been on my TBR (to be read) pile for awhile now. Not every parent will want their child reading this or any book about gender identity issues. But for those who are open to it, I feel that the story is appropriate for the 8-12 year-old range.

According to parenting and teaching educator Barbara Coloroso, childhood anxiety is an issue facing an alarming number of youth today. The subject is hit head-on in Small Things, an amazing and emotional new wordless graphic picture book for ages 8-12, by Australian artist Mel Tregonning.

 

I’ve been a fan of Kate DiCamillo’s every since I read her first book Because of Winn-Dixie about 15 years ago. Numerous books and awards later, her quirky characters have stayed with me, and I’m always happy to recommend her books. So I was excited to read her latest, Raymie Nightingale...