“Some people are boys. Some people are girls. Some people are both, neither, or somewhere in between.”
So begins the captivating 2019 picture book It Feels Good to Be Yourself: A Book About Gender Identity written by Theresa Thorn, illustrated by Noah Grigni, and published by Henry Holt and Company.
Throughout the book, four different children are presented with a description of each child’s gender identity. The gender identities – transgender, cisgender, and non-binary – are explained in simple language readers of all ages can understand. Author, Theresa Thorn, tells us that genders are assigned when a baby is born, based on the baby’s body. But that gender assignment isn’t always correct. We don’t always know a child’s gender identity until that child is able to tell us how they see themself. Gender can be fluid, and how a person feels today may not be how that person feels in the future. Noah Grigni’s vibrant illustrations reinforce the uplifting message that gender is a spectrum where a child can identify themself anywhere they feel is right for them. All types of families, skin shades, ethnicities, and ableness are represented, providing a mirror for all children to see themselves in.
“Among gender-centered picture books, this one stands out for its dazzling #ownvoices art and its simple yet nuanced phrasing—particularly when Ruthie shares her true gender with her family, and her parents (an interracial couple) respond with a loving group hug. “Oops! Ruthie was a girl all along—they just didn’t know it at first.” Giving kids and adults a hopeful model for discussing (and embracing) one another’s gender is just one of the gifts offered by this valuable narrative.” (Kirkus Reviews)
The goal of It Feels Good to Be Yourself is to assure readers the most important thing regarding their gender is to be true to themselves and know they are okay exactly the way they are. Backmatter includes an age-appropriate glossary, a note about pronouns, and helpful resources. This picture book is a wonderful treasure for families looking to teach and learn about gender. I highly recommend adding it to your library.
Marti Johns 