Rebel Girls Celebrate Pride: 25 Tales of Self-Love and Community

by Rebel Girls, Elena Favilli (Foreword)

TRUE STORIES OF PRIDE AND POWER!

This collection features 25 inspiring tales of proud members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Read about how these women, girls, and nonbinary people broke down barriers, honored their identities, and lived authentically no matter what anyone else said.

Find your voice with Janelle Monae. Play for equality with Billie Jean King. Protect your community with Marcia P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera. And organize joyful celebrations with Dr. Lady Phyll and Molly Pinta.

With a foreword by Elena Favilli, this book pairs inspiring, easy-to-read text with colorful full-page portraits created by female and nonbinary artists from all around the world. Plus, scannable codes let you listen to longer stories on the Rebel Girls app!

Genres: Nonfiction, LGBT, Middle Grade, Queer, Biography Memoir, Childrens, Biography

64 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 23, 2023

About the author

Rebel Girls is a global, multi-platform edutainment brand dedicated to inspiring and instilling confidence in a generation of girls around the world through content, products, and experiences.

Reviews

[Natalie all_books_great_and_small · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.

Rebel Girls Celebrate Pride is a beautiful and inspiring collection perfect for PRIDE with 25 tales of 25 different girls, women, females, and nonbinary people, all from the LGBTQ community. The illustrations are as always amazingly detailed and bright, and there's even some little activities to do. The people featuring in the book range from athletes and activists to scientists and artists and many many more. I would suggest this book for ages 12+ only because of many of the terms used and pronoun meanings, which may be trickier for a younger child to understand without adult guidance and explanation. This is definitely a colourful and inspirational addition to the Rebel Girls series.

[Marti (Letstalkaboutbooksbaybee) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just love this whole series of books, but this one focused on pride especially. I know they’re geared for kids but I always learn so much!

[Michaela · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is another great addition to the Rebel Girls series, this time about girls, women and nonbinary persons who are from the LGBTQ+ community. We meet activists, artists, athletes and scientists who found their way not only doing what they wanted but also living with the gender and sexuality that represented them. The illustrations and activities for children are again brilliant and enjoyable. The only flaw is that - although there are short explanations in the end - children of that age would need an adult to read this with to explain all the terms and pronouns used here.
Thanks to Rebel Girls and Netgalley for an ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review.

[Louise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rebel Girls has produced a timely and important book aimed at young people (middle grade) who want to learn about some very interesting people from all around the world - people who have transcended the traditional definitions of female and male and who have “broken down barriers, honored their identities, and lived authentically no matter what anyone else said.”

As always, Rebel Girls has produced a gorgeous book, filled with colorful illustrations and brief text describing each person. The illustrations are created by female and nonbinary artists from all over the world. They are just lovely to gaze at.

The people profiled here run the gamut from those who are famous in the US (Billie Jean King and Janelle Monae) to those you probably haven’t heard of. They are athletes, activists, scientists, lawyers and more. I was particularly taken with the story of Sherente, a dancer and activist, who is a member of the Narragansett people. I learned that LGBTQ indigenous people use the term “Two-Spirit” to “refer to people with genders that stretch beyond the categories of ‘male’ or ‘female’.”

One reason I say it’s timely is because too many states in the US are currently considering or have recently passed laws that discriminate against the LGBTQ population, or at least make their lives harder. In fact, two of the stories in this book highlight young people who are working against recent legislation passed in Florida: Will Larkins and X Gonzalez.

Thank you to NetGalley and Rebel Girls for the opportunity to read an advance readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[SJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book needs to be in every library and in every school. I hope every queer, trans, non-binary, gender non-conforming child can read these stories or stories like these. To see themselves reflected in the pages. To see that they are more than just their gender and sexual orientation. And that those parts of their identity do not hold them back or prevent them from doing whatever they want to do in this life. This book is full of short, one page stories about self-love, acceptance, pride, activism, and breaking barriers from women, girls, and non-binary people from all around the world. Some people you may have heard of and others you might not know. The stories are about people who range from activists and lawyers to athletes and singers, from comedians and actors to scientists and artists. Each story is also accompanied by a portrait illustrated by female and non-binary artists from around the world. And there are bonus activities about pride at the end. You can even learn more about some of the folks included with the Rebel Girls app. I highly recommend this book - especially to any who has kids or works with kids in any capacity!

I received an advance reader copy of this book through Netgally and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[fridge_brilliance · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first book from the Rebel Girls series - I thought I had read one, but in retrospect turns out I was thinking of Women in Science picture book. It was short and lovely and a nice primer into some of the stories before Pride Month: in an era where things are so heavily leaning towards annual rainbow capitalism fest, reconnecting with the actual people's stories or history-making stories feels good. It's a good selection of women, non-binary and/or queer trailblazers, and the illustrations are simply glorious. If it becomes one more book that helps children recognize themselves in one of those, or just realize there is more than one way to be, that will already be a very good reason to have this be out there.

Thanks to Netgalley for the advance copy of the book.

[karla_bookishlife · Rating 5 out of 5]

What better way to celebrate June Pride month than with this fantastic Rebel Girls Celebrate Pride book! It is a compilation of 25 tales of wonderfully inspiring and game-changing girls, women, and nonbinary persons, illustrated with and beautiful full-page pictures. These individuals have all pushed boundaries and fought to be accepted for being uniquely true to themselves in a large array of areas from sports to Science. Sculpting to activism. This book encourages us to be open and accepting of others and show love and support no matter what. There is a super foreword by Elena Favilli, as well as great scannable qr codes that magically transport you to lots more fabulous information. #rebelgirlscelebratepride #rebelgirls #netgalley #pridemonth #LGBTQIA #childrensnonfiction

[Ravenclaw Library Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

All of the Rebel Girls books I've read so far have been well-written, informative, and beautifully designed, and this was no exception.
This book did an amazing job representing LGBTQIA+ folks from all walks of life and cultures. An absolute gem. Representation is so important, and people need to see themselves everywhere so they know they are not alone and can achieve great things.

Thanks Netgalley and Rebel Girls for the opportunity to review this eARC in exchange for my honest review on the book

[Corinne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great book to read with my kids. I thought it might be a little young for my 13 yo but he was totally engaged in all the stories - they sparked some great conversations. The illustrations are outstanding and beautiful.

I received a digital Advanced Reader Copy from NetGalley and Rebel Girls in exchange for an honest review.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

My hope is that more and more people will read this book. It very briefly, but beautifully shares individuals stories in coming out and what pride means to them. The illustrations are vibrant and I love the little details and quote. It even has some activities at the end.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Eram Hussain · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love reading the Rebel Girls books even though they are targeted for the younger audience. Rebel girls series definitely helps to put the information in a way that children can understand it.
25 inspiring tales to celebrate pride, talk about being yourself, accepting who you are, and make sure that you're not in this alone.
This book simplifies a lot of terms and definitions, e.g. non-binary, gay, or lesbian.. At the end of the book, you can also find the difference between gender identity, sexual orientation, and gender expression.

[Jelke · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first Rebel Girls book and I can safely say that it will not be my last!

I absolutely adored the illustrations and how compact, yet very informative the information was.

[Paula Phillips · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love reading the Rebel Girls books and even though they are targeted for the younger audience and make me sometimes wish I was younger, so I could enjoy them even more . They are great in giving females some strong role models and even more this particular one which shares females who identify as LGBT+ as back then , those that identified didn't feel accepted and have the role models needed.
Rebel Girls Celebrate Pride: 25 Tales of Self-Love and Community" is a remarkable addition to the captivating biography anthologies published by Rebel Girls. Unlike its predecessors, this particular volume stands out as a bite-sized paperback, making it the perfect companion for readers on the go. Its compact size is ideal for slipping into backpacks or pockets, ensuring that the stories of resilience and empowerment found within its pages can be easily accessed and shared.
The book's layout is a visual treat, with each page spread showcasing a noteworthy individual from the LGBTQIA+ community. The format includes a concise yet insightful one-page biography accompanied by a vibrant and expressive full-color illustration. The inclusion of both well-known queer figures like the influential activist Marsha P. Johnson and the talented singer and actor Janelle Monáe, alongside lesser-known heroes such as scientist Clara Barker and dancer Sherenté, allows for a diverse and enriching reading experience.
One of the standout features of this anthology is its inclusive nature, which encapsulates the true spirit of Pride. By highlighting the experiences and achievements of individuals across different professions, backgrounds, and eras, the book offers a comprehensive representation of the LGBTQIA+ community. The reader is introduced to a multitude of voices and perspectives, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity within its pages.
In addition to the inspiring biographies, "Rebel Girls Celebrate Pride" provides valuable back matter that enhances the reader's engagement with the content. The inclusion of space for personal storytelling and self-portrait creation encourages self-reflection and expression, allowing readers to connect with the stories on a more intimate level. Furthermore, the book provides a glossary of important terms and concepts, ensuring that readers are equipped with a better understanding of LGBTQIA+ history and culture. Additionally, the further ideas to celebrate pride offer suggestions for meaningful ways to honor and embrace diversity within one's own community.
Given its content and thoughtful design, "Rebel Girls Celebrate Pride" would make an excellent gift, especially for queer youth during the vibrant and empowering month of LGBTQIA+ Pride. The book serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring young readers to embrace their identities and celebrate their unique journeys. It not only educates but also empowers, reminding readers that their voices matter and that their stories are worth sharing.
In conclusion, "Rebel Girls Celebrate Pride: 25 Tales of Self-Love and Community" is a commendable addition to Rebel Girls' anthology series. Its compact size, diverse representation, and engaging content make it a standout publication. This book succeeds in celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community and providing young readers with inspiring role models and a platform for self-expression. It is an invaluable resource that beautifully captures the essence of Pride and serves as a catalyst for positive change in the lives of its readers.

[K_IndieWoods · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rebel Girls Celebrate Pride is another hit in the Rebel Girls franchise. This story highlights twenty-eight brave, beautiful souls through the course of twenty-five inspiring stories. Each story is accompanied with a full page colorful picture done by a female or nonbinary artist from around the world. These are stories of proud girls, women and nonbinary people from around the globe and throughout history. Some are trailblazers who've helped to pave a path of acceptance and others are celebrities and activists of today doing their part to help build an educated and accepting world.

In the back of the book is a page of activities to help kids find ways to celebrate their own greatness. Also in back is a page to help explain the differences between Gender Identity, Gender Expression and Sexual Orientation. Sprinkled throughout the book are QR Codes you can scan to unlock extra content within the Rebel Girls App. As a pre-release reader not every code unlocks for me, but of the ones that do the stories are amazing. This is a free to download app that requires a monthly or annual fee to access the full content. From what I can tell you do not need to subscribe in order to access the content given within the book(s). This is the only downside for me when deciding whether to purchase these Rebel Girls books. Each story is brief, but the added content of the app makes them shine. The content that this corporation has to offer is so amazing and important, I wish it was accessible to all girls regardless of income level. I live in a town with a high poverty rate, too many children on the free/reduced lunch program. Many of the inspiring people within these books have faced adversity and if they were children today I can't help but wonder would they have had access to the treasures hidden within the app.

As a mom I am happy to share these stories with my daughters. Love and acceptance top the list of traits I hope to encourage in my children as they grow into the adults of our future. I want them to be inspired, be authentic and be free to live and love however they choose. I would recommend this book to parents but also to anyone who would love to treat a special little girl in their life. They make great gifts and will be appreciated for years to come.

I was loaned a PDF copy of this book from NetGalley and Rebel Girls Inc. in exchange for an honest review. The opinions within this review are my own.

[Nette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book review of Rebel Girls Celebrate Pride
This book includes 25 inspiring short biographies of members of the LGBTQIA+ community. These stories are filled with motivating stories of these amazing individuals. Keeping with the multi-platformed empowerment brand Rebel Girls represents. All of the stories are uplifting even during moments when others try to keep them from thriving and being themselves.

Read the stories from Janelle Monae (Singer/Songwriter/Actor and Author), Billy King Jean (Tennis player), X González (Activist), and Lauren Esposito (Arachnologist) to just name a few. You also read about stories of individuals that will be new to you. In my case, those were the stories of Will Larkins (Activist), Phyll Opoku-Gyimah (Activist), and Menaka Guruswamy and Arundhati Katju (Lawyers) to name a few.

Rebel Girls provide scannable QR codes on some of the mini-stories within the book. The QR codes let you listen to the longer stories of some of these people who are women, girls, and nonbinary via the Rebel Girls App.

Keep Celebrating!
The beautiful additions to this book are endless. There’s an area where the reader can write their own story and draw a portrait of themselves. You can also find special activities to do once you’ve finished the Rebel Girls Celebrate Pride book. From “Sing It Loud and Proud” to answering the “Dream Dinner” activities. There is also a “Terms to Know” where there is information about the definition and meaning of certain terms that one can come across while reading this book. Always with the understanding that if the children have questions they should ask a parent or a grown-up.

The Illustrators
I noticed something when I read the first story in the Rebel Girls Celebrate Pride book about Alana Smith. Smith is a nonbinary skateboarder who competed in the Olympics in 2021. What captured my eye was the illustration of Alana Smith. It was illustrated by Rut Pedreño (website) from Spain. I recognized the illustration style immediately from following Rut online. That’s when I quickly realized the amazing team of Rebel Girls had full-page portraits from the book created by female and nonbinary artists from all around the world. Not only are you reading about amazing members of the LGBTQIA+ community but you now have a list of wonderfully creative illustrators to also give a follow and support.

[Aadi Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rebel Girls Celebrate Pride is an absolute triumph within the beloved Rebel Girls series. Bursting with vibrant portraits and empowering quotes, this remarkable installment features a diverse cast of 25 LGBTQ+ luminaries, spanning athletes, artists, activists, and more, both renowned and unsung. Each two-page spread showcases an enthralling third-person anecdote alongside a breathtaking portrait masterfully crafted by a team of immensely talented artists. While the concise nature of the stories may leave some craving deeper exploration, it remains an invaluable resource for home libraries, offering a splendid entry point into the lives of noteworthy LGBTQ+ individuals.

Transcending boundaries and fostering inclusivity, Rebel Girls Celebrate Pride ensures representation by encompassing women and nonbinary individuals, granting a sense of belonging to trans and nonbinary readers. As a delightful bonus, the back matter provides a trove of engaging activities directly inspired by the featured stories, enlightening explanations of relevant terms, and even a generous two-page spread for readers to craft their own empowering narratives and self-portraits.

This prideful and powerful collection exudes the spirit of celebration and serves as a shining beacon on any bookshelf. Its age-appropriate content makes it a perfect fit for readers eight years and older. However, it is important to note that the restriction of full access to the Rebel Girls App's content through a paid subscription poses a barrier to inclusivity, potentially limiting accessibility for all readers. It is a regrettable setback, as the app offers invaluable resources that should be available to girls from all walks of life, irrespective of their economic circumstances.

Thank you netgalley for providing me with this free arc in exchange for my honest review

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have a few points to make, but I want to make one thing incredibly clear first: I'm SO happy this book exists. Books like this are important. Kids deserve to have this information, and queer identities are not any more inherently not child-friendly than heterosexuality when presented in exactly the same way.

That said, there are a few ways I think this book could have done better. First, the glossary needed imporovement. It's very brief and doesn't cover specific identities, only the broad ideas of "gender identity," "gender presentation," and "sexual orientation." I wouldn't expect it to include detailed descriptinos of every single queer identity, but asexuality, for example, is lesser known and mentioned in the book but never defined.

Second, I wish a lot of these stories focused on the person's actual identity and their experience with it more. I know this book was trying to respect the "a person is more than their queer identity" idea, which is true, but too often that skews so much in that direction that it ignores that that identity IS a part of that person and an important part too. Like, they're here because they're queer, so tell me about them being queer, not just all the unrelated stuff they've done.

Last is just a brief one as an aroace reader: I always want to see more aspec involvement. As mentioned above, there is one asexual, but her orientation is barely mentioned and not defined at all. There are no aromantics.

Oh, there's also one meta error: a piece of art is repeated, meaning there is no protrait of Will Larkins, and that piece, stated to be by Izzy Evans, is not actually included.

[cjfriess · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rebel Girls Celebrate Pride 25 Tales of Self-Love and Community features the fascinating stories of 25 inspirational people from all over the globe who campaign and work to ensure equal rights for the LGBTQ community. They’ve broken down barriers in sport, entertainment and science as well as overturned laws and created safe spaces where everybody can be themselves.

We were particularly inspired by Lawyers Menaka Guruswamy and Arundhati Katie who have successfully fought against anti-LGBTQ laws in India and Moji and Margaret Solar-Wilson who have created the Solar-Wilson Village, an African inspired safe place in Texas.

This diverse collection also includes sports heroes like tennis player Billy Jean King who runs World TeamTennis with her wife Ilana and paralympic swimmer, Theresa Goh. It features artists such as actor and activist, Laverne Cox, dancer and activist, Sherenté Harris, and actor and model, Patrica Velàsquez, who have all been instrumental in championing acceptance for everybody in the LGBTQ community.

There are also activities at the end of the book. Readers are encouraged to write their own stories, draw their own portraits and celebrate themselves. The terms ‘gender identity’, ‘gender expression’ and ‘sexual orientation are also explained and children are encouraged to talk to a trusted adult if they have any questions.

[Lu · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this book. It is a collection of life stories about members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Is is very inspiring to people of all ages.
What I liked the most is that this stories are from real life. Which means they are not rose-colored, not written excessively positive, but they show each person's real life with its highs and lows.
This book shows the rawness of queer people's lives in a society that has difficulty accepting them just for being who they inherently are. It then describes the joy of freedom and self expression; the feeling of being lucky even just for being able to open some people's eyes on their narrow-mindedness, the hope other people may still open their eyes and that things may be able to change on a bigger level, in towns and cities and nationwide. The persistent will of fighting for their own and others' queer people's freedom of expression.
I was particularly amazed by how much courage it took all of these people to fight for their rights. They are amazing. And they're fighting just for their basic rights that should be accepted automatically and that instead, are fought against on the daily by so many ignorant people. Every each one person from the LGBTQIA+ community is just amazing. Keep fighting. I thank NetGalley very much for this book. ❤️

[Zinzee Noel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic addition to the acclaimed Rebel Girls series, this book is packed with vibrant photographs and motivational words. The current episode profiles 25 notable and lesser-known LGBTQ+ athletes, artists, activists, and more. Each narrative has just two pages, one of which is devoted to an inspiring third-person account and the other to a distinctive portrait created by one of a small number of really gifted painters. Because of this, educational institutions and libraries may choose a work that provides a little more hard evidence. However, it is a great resource for personal libraries that desire an introduction to or overview of some noteworthy LGBTQ+ people. The narratives are interesting, straightforward, and filled to the brim with positive self-talk. Women and nonbinary people are represented in this wonderful book, which is sure to appeal to trans and nonbinary readers. Term definitions, a glossary, and a two-page spread allowing the reader to share their own tale and self-portrait are included as backmatter. An impressive tale collection that can stand tall on its own. Ideal for anybody above the age of eight.

[Geno · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 ★
"You see, what I didn't know at the time was that there is not just one way to be a girl."
---
"Rebel Girls Celebrate Pride" es una nueva entrega de la colección Rebel Girls que mantiene la calidad de sus predecesores y suma puntos en diversidad.

Como siempre, el arte es hermoso, con mucha personalidad y haciendo foco en la persona detrás de la historia.

Personalmente, disfruté la variedad tanto en nacionalidades como en profesiones. Hay algunas historias que son más emocionales, otras más informativas. Siento que es posible que cualquiera encuentre algo con lo que identificarse.

Algunas páginas cuentan con un QR que amplía la información, creo que es una manera muy interesante de ampliar la experiencia lectora.

En general, es buen libro -aunque básico- para que tanto niños como adultos abracen la diversidad y reconozcan la importancia de contar estas historias.

Gracias a Netgalley y al editor por proporcionar una copia gratuita de este libro a cambio de una reseña honesta.

---
"Rebel Girls Celebrate Pride" is an excellent addition to the Rebel Girls books.

The illustrations are beautiful and well thought out as with all the other installments of this series.

I love the diversity here. There are people from all over the world and that's a nice touch when we are discussing being inclusive.
Some stories are more emotional than others, but I feel like it's possible for anyone to find something to identify with.

I also liked that there is a QR for extra information in some cases, it's a good idea to expand the book experience.

In general, it is a good book -although sometimes a little basic- to help children and adults to recognize the importance of telling these stories.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

[Jenny Blacker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a big fan of the Rebel Girls series, and have seen 1st hand the positive impact they've had on young people I know. So I was thrilled to see a pride focused title.

I love that quite a few of the people here were previously unknown to me, I go out of my way to read/review queer biography type books and this selection was young and fresh!

Given the space limitations, I like that there's a QR code to find out more, a nice use of the tech.

The illustrations are, as usual, lovely, and the info is pitched at a the older end of the range of these books, but could easily be explained by a patient adult/older child.

There's a good range of genders, sexualities and race/country diversity in the selection of people. My only ick is that, due to the branding, they're all under the title of 'girl', something that I feel it's fair to suggest some of the people would object to. I'm not sure how they get around this, given the brand is long established now, possibly a quick note explaining? Overall it is right that these people are included, rather than just left aside though

Highly recommended!

[Shilo Quetchenbach · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another powerful collection from Rebel Girls, this one focusing on queer women and nonbinary people. As always the illustrations are bright and colorful and fun and the stories are uplifting and inspiring. The most difficult one to read is the very last: X Gonzalez, organizer of March four Our Lives and gun control activist.

I always learn a lot from Rebel Girls books and come away inspired to make a difference, and this book was no exception. In fact, I felt more strongly connected to this book than previous books in the series. I think it was an important step for Rebel Girls to take, to acknowledge that queer people exist and can be role models too, especially in today's political climate.

This book should be in upper-elementary and middle school classrooms and libraries everywhere, even though I know in some places it won't. But it should. Everyone deserves to have stories that represent and inspire them.

*Thanks to NetGalley and Rebel Girls for providing an early copy for review.

[Alison Liparoto · Rating 5 out of 5]

We LOVE all the Rebel girl books! They are so informative and such a wonderful thing to share with kids. I've read this one with my children and it lead to wonderful discussions and questions, and we learned a ton! Some of these awesome pride figures I wasn't aware of myself. It is beautifully illustrated throughout and includes some information in the back of celebrating your own pride and talks about supporting organizations. The stories are fast reads, so they are perfect before bed. It is an important and powerful book that leaves you feeling inspired and hopeful.

I love how they always open up a dialogue, allowing curiosity and understanding to blossom. It is important to our household to uplift women and those in the LGBTQIA+ community, and this is such a great way to share that. Each of the Rebel Girls books are worth reading and I am so happy with how the Pride one was done! We loved it and plan on gifting it!

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in return for my honest review.

[ReadWithKate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you @netgalley for sending me an ARC of Rebel Girls Celebrate Pride in exchange for an honest review!
This book is amazing! It teaches the story of 25 LGBTQ+ women and nonbinary people who fought for queer rights.
It focuses on many important themes, such as discrimination, coming out, feminism and the importance of being yourself.
I really enjoyed how hopeful the narration was, showing that the more we fight for LGBT+ rights, the more chance we have at building a better future! The stories are inspiring and it makes me think that we might get a chance at a better life!
It's a very informative and fun book to share with children and adults! Everyone deserves representation and it's time we stop saying that LGBT+ people should not be represented in kids media!
I particularly enjoyed the references to the Stonewall Riots. This is one of the most important moments in LGBT+ history and it's important that we remeber that withput black trans women like Marsha P. Johnson, we would've never gotten to where we are today!

[Kristine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Rebel Girls and NetGalley for the e-ARC of this title. I say it a lot, but I'm a big fan of the 25-story collections from Rebel Girls, as it lets readers get really into a specific topic, while still leaving lots of room for future reading on either the individuals profiled or some of the themes mentioned. In the Pride collection specifically, I thought the editors did a great job as always, selecting a good assortment of high-profile and lesser-known people to feature, for a well-rounded mix. I think Rebel Girls strikes a good balance of the stories being relatable (where readers could imagine themselves represented in the short form stories), aspirational (you can do big things too!) and inspirational (there were a lot of challenges along the way, and we honor that.) Readers who are interested in sports, music, science, and many more fields will be able to read about just a small introductory list of LGBTQ+ change=makers who have been influential in recent years and throughout history, so check it out!

[Danica is Booked · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Received for review: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Why did I decide to turn the pages? It seemed like a perfect read to kick off Pride Month.

My Overall Thoughts/Impressions: Will some find this objectionable? I'm sure they will. So read it first, and decide whether and when you want to read it with your kids. I'm a big believer in read what you want, don't read what you don't want to, and let everybody decide that for themselves.

This book tells the stories of 25 members of the LGBTQIA+ community. It contained quick snapshots, but where this book really shines is the diversity in who is covered. Age range, ethnicity, accomplishments, background, etc.

I tend to like deeper dives, but I think this book would be very impactful for teens of this community to see the rich vibrant lives they can lead and the diversity of options open to them.

Love,
Danica Page

[Megz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Every time I read a Rebel Girls book, I am afraid that this is it: this is the time the spell will be broken. This is the one that just won’t “do it” anymore. But so far, I’ve been lucky: every time I read a new Rebel Girls book, I am delighted.

Rebel Girls Celebrate Pride is something special, though - it is the spin-off that has brought me closest to that feeling I had when I read the very first Rebel Girls collection, Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls: 100 Tales of Extraordinary Women. It inspires a sense of community, power, and - indeed - celebration.

I appreciate that Rebel Girls Celebrate Pride touches on definitions of various terms, and that it points out where society has progressed over the decades. With a cast diverse in age, culture, background, and fields of expertise, this iteration is at once relatable and educational.

Thank you to Netgalley and Rebel Girls for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rebel Girls Celebrate Pride is one of the best entries to the series in a good while. The book tells 25 different stories about women, girls, and nonbinary people, with all of the stories focusing on LGBTQ+ people. Everyone is a lesbian, bisexual, asexual, transgender (binary trans women and nonbinary folks), intersex, etc. The people featured are from all over the world, and from different racial and ethnic backgrounds. There was disabled people too (which made my queer disabled heart sing). They have a variety of backgrounds from science to art to activism to athletes and more. As a queer person, this is the kind of book I wish I'd had as a kid. We get to see queer people living full and fulfilling lives and positively impacting the world around them. I loved that the focus was more on their accomplishments than on their queer identities so that queer kids get the chance to see that they can grow up to be queer adults with the chance to do whatever inspires them.

Highly recommended for all ages (ideal for ages 7-13).

[Jazelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rebel Girls does it again!

To be completely honest, I had tears in my eyes by the time I reached Laverne Cox's page. While this book is small--spanning only 64 pages--the heart within each of these 25 stories is HUGE. This Rebel Girls collection features 25 awe-inspiring stories about proud members of the LGBTQIA+ community: the full spectrum of gender identity and sexual orientation, featuring lesbian, transgender, asexual, pansexual, queer, cisgender, nonbinary, and bisexual voices. These women not only shattered stereotypes and made cracks in the glass ceiling, but also opened doors for the next generation and every generation after. These stories are full of passion, fight, and above all else, perseverance. My only problem with this book: I wish there were more stories to read and share!

As an added bonus, this book features accompanying audio stories and extra content. Don't miss this one!