INTO LGBT Teachers Group – the special interest group of the union that consists of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender teachers – have encouraged parents, teachers and libraries to consider exploring books that are LGBT+ inclusive ahead of World Book Day on Thursday, March 7.

Ahead of the day – which celebrates reading in schools and libraries – INTO said:

“Each year, World Book Day is celebrated in homes, schools and libraries all over Ireland. This year, we are encouraging people to consider books which explore gender and have LGBT+ characters. There are so many wonderful books out there to suit all ages and we have put together a list of books we would recommend for different age categories, from 4 up to 12 years old.”

Examples of LGBT+ inclusive books include Red: A Crayon’s Story by Michael Hall, 10,000 Dresses by Marcus Ewert, King & King by Stern Nijland, The Misadventures of the Family Fletcher by Dana Alison Levy and Feliz YZ by Lisa Bunker.

Speaking on the messages in these books INTO said:

“Stories are powerful. The stories in these books introduce children to various characters who are a bit different to the others.

“Through these and many other stories, children can get a chance to talk about different types of families as well as how being different can be a challenge.”

The group continued:

“These books help children acknowledge how they may feel different from others and also let them know they are not alone, there are others, just like them.”

We love hearing your ideas for fun ways to promote reading – from classroom activities to sharing a book at bedtime. To to our website to find new ideas and share your own. Lets get kids of all ages excited about books. https://t.co/deJbBL3NPA pic.twitter.com/AjYVdzezp0

— World Book Day UK ? (@WorldBookDayUK) February 13, 2019

The teachers’ group spoke about the need for representation of the LGBT+ community in children’s literature:

“So many children in our homes and schools have never read their own story. Wouldn’t it be great if this World Book Day children got the opportunity to hear and read their own story? Wouldn’t it be great if more and more children, parents, teachers, librarians, booksellers knew about these books and they became a common sight in homes, schools, libraries and bookshops all over Ireland?”

The statement concluded:

“This World Book Day, help us make that happen, help us spread the word and create a more inclusive world for children in Ireland.”