“Most mommies are girls. Most daddies are boys. But lots of parents are neither a boy nor a girl. Like my Maddy.”
So begins My Maddy (written by Gayle E. Pitman and illustrated by Violet Tobacco), my next 2021 ALA Rainbow List picture book read.
In this book, we are invited into a young child’s beautiful relationship with her nonbinary parent, her Maddy (mash-up of Mommy and Daddy). Readers are introduced to the concept of a parent whose gender identity and outer expression don’t fit the typical mommy or daddy, but are something special, “in between, and kind of both”. As the story unfolds, this in between-ness is seen and celebrated in nature, eye color, even eating utensils!
“Particularly noteworthy is the heartwarming scene when the Maddy kisses their kid goodbye before dropping them off at school: Beside a glowing portrait of the beaming family, the text reads, “Maddy’s kisses feel like sandpaper against my face.” Such positive images of gender-nonconforming presentations are rare in children’s literature, making this a valuable addition to any school, public, or personal library for its engaging art and accessible representation for a wide age range.” (Kirkus review)
Violet Tobacco’s illustrations are vibrant and colorful yet contain a softness that exudes the love between the Maddy and their child. The book’s backmatter is full of helpful information on nonbinary, intersex, parent transitions, and resources. This book is perfect for any parent, caregiver, or educator trying to explain the concept of nonbinary to a young child.
This book grabbed my heart the minute I saw the cover. The Maddy reminds me so much of my nonbinary adult child, Thing 1. Thing 1 has brownish-blonde hair, hazel eyes, wears glasses, and is tall – just like the Maddy in this story. I felt as though Gayle Pitman and Violet Tobacco were speaking directly to me, sharing a potential future of Thing 1 with a child of their own and the complete joy of their relationship.
Another terrific read that I recommend for all.
Marti Johns 