Epstein explores why sex, sexuality and gender non-conformity is something that many writers and publishers of children's and young adult lit appear to shy away from. She demonstrates that the information children get from literature matters, and that so called 'difficult' topics can be communicated in entertaining and informative ways.

Uses ideas from queer theory and other research to interrogate the ways LGBTQ characters are portrayed in books for children and young people, and to analyse what messages readers of such books might receive.

Includes detailed analysis of over 60 picture books, middle-grade books and young adult novels by authors such as Nancy Garden, Julie Ann Peters, Alex Sanchez, David Levithan, Leslea Newman, Marcus Ewart, Cris Beam and many others.

This book brings together literary studies, sociology, queer studies and other academic fields in an accessible manner, where the research supports the detailed analyses of over 50 books for children and young adults. Epstein looks at a range of topics, such as the lack of diversity in many of these works, how same-sex marriage is portrayed, the relative absence of bisexual and transgender characters, the way that many of these books are marketed and intended as 'issue books', and more.

A practical and informative book to inspire writers and publishers to produce better LGBTQ literature for young readers.

Reviews

Literature representing LGBTQ experiences will be part of any inclusive school curriculum. Of course. Epstein takes that crucial next step, though, and establishes some criteria for selecting and using these books. She weaves her own opinions in with those of other experts, comments from authors, and the voices of the characters themselves. From picture books to young adult literature, she helps us understand the value of these works, but also reveals some of the unintended messages teachers might want to avoid or compensate for. This book will be a good place to start for anyone new to LGBTQ children's literature or food for thought for the experienced practitioner.

* Renee DePalma Ungaro *

What world is created by the LGBT/queer stories found in current children's literature, and what world would we like to create going forward? With this book, B.J. Epstein shares a vivid map of the present, and a bold atlas for the future.

-- Marcus Ewart, author of 10,000 Dresses

B.J. eloquently explores all aspects of our journey to inclusivity. Inclusive literature is key to eradicating discrimination, reflecting the real lives and families of our young readers.

-- Elly Barnes * Schools Out *



Book Information
ISBN 9780956450739
Author B.J. Epstein
Format Paperback
Page Count 274
Imprint Hammeron Press
Publisher Intellect Books
Weight(grams) 467g
Dimensions(mm) 229mm * 152mm * 18mm