ALA Booklist (Mon Jun 05 00:00:00 CDT 2023)

This is a handy book to have around when a child (or an adult, for that matter) starts asking questions about sexual identity or gender roles. Definitions and descriptions are provided in straightforward, easy-to-understand language, and concepts are supported by cheerful cartoon characters, comparison charts, checklists, and other helpful graphics. The tone is consistently inclusive and reassuring, and the text uses scenarios that most kids will relate to and that are grounded in everyday examples and experiences. Each brief chapter ends with a list of open-ended questions that make good conversation prompts, and there are other helpful features: activities to help kids explore their feelings about their gender, things to consider before making important decisions (like coming out), how to stand up to bullying, and how to find support (including an extensive bibliography of picture books, titles for tweens and teens, workbooks, and resources for adults supporting gender-fluid kids). The final message is that everyone has the right to be accepted for who they are. This helpful guide makes that easier.

Kirkus Reviews

This straightforward guide invites readers to explore all things gender.Doodle-style illustrations, lots of white space, and casual, direct text set an accessible and supportive tone right from the opening pages. A cast of characters who are diverse in terms of race, gender, and ability are introduced with their names and pronouns, spotlighting different ways of existing and expressing oneself. Characters' identities are deepened in subsequent chapters alongside stylized, speech bubble–filled art. The kids explore (sometimes comedically, as in a joke comparing pizza and cinnamon rolls to gender roles) concepts and ideas presented, including sex versus gender, the gender binary, and more. A variety of typefaces and text colors help to clarify the information-packed pages; inset boxes highlight definitions; and kid-friendly metaphors engage and inform: "Having a gender assigned to you at birth, along with your sex, is a little bit like having your favorite color picked for you." Topics like labels, pronouns, coming out, and anti-trans attitudes are confronted head-on, carefully and with age-appropriate nuance. Self-care suggestions and affirmations abound, and readers are encouraged to focus on their wants and needs and to take a break from the book at any time. At the end of each chapter, main ideas are revisited, followed by a list of questions that prompt deeper personal reflection.A thoughtful, thorough, and inclusive resource. (author's note, recommended resources) (Nonfiction. 8-12)

Publishers Weekly (Fri Oct 06 00:00:00 CDT 2023)

Seeking to educate young readers about gender, Passchier’s digestible narrative in five chapters covers sex vs. gender, identity, the gender binary, expression and exploration, and challenges and support. Throughout, expository text centers on straightforward definitions and examples (“This is called your assigned sex at birth”), while variously diverse, doodle-like human characters create a through line for deeper understanding. Affirming sentences support self-care (“It’s okay to take a break at any point”) and reassure that uncomfortable feelings are alright and even expected (A “label can feel restrictive.... It’s OK not to have one!”). Each chapter ends with “Now We Know” and “Questions” sections. At every turn of this gentle read, readers are encouraged to think about how they relate to their body and what gender means to them, regardless of others view them. Resources conclude. Ages 7–10. (June)

School Library Journal (Thu Jun 01 00:00:00 CDT 2023)

Gr 2–5— Passchier presents a remarkable, approachable exploration of gender; the chapter book format, complete with generously sized text, spacing, and full-color illustrations, divides the robust subject matter into easily absorbed sections. A generous "how to use this book" introduction encourages readers to practice exceptional self-care as part of their reading journey. Bright, inclusive illustrations usher readers through narrative text, vocabulary explainer boxes, and amusing dialogue. Chapters cover gender identity, binaries, exploration and expression, and challenges. While the presentation is clearly intended for audiences in North America, historical and cultural information from around the world helps broaden perspective. A robust resources page includes print and digital options for a variety of age ranges and reading levels. This work has broad appeal, potentially down to preschool ages when used intentionally. However, even confident, independent readers will need the support of a loving caregiver to help process the information and pronounce some of the trickier vocabulary words. Passchier does not shy away from complex topics (e.g., the lasting effects of patriarchal, colonial cultures) but offers the information in a concise, meaningful fashion. VERDICT An overwhelmingly helpful and inclusive book that will benefit kids and grown-ups alike.— Taylor Worley