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ABC Pride
A is for Acceptance! ! B is for Belonging! ! C is for Celebrate!
ABC Pride introduces little readers to the alphabet through the colorful world of Pride. Children can discover letters and words while also learning more about the LGBTQIA+ community and how to be inclusive.
Every letter of the alphabet is paired with fun, bold illustrations to support language learning, and a handy list of discussion points at the end gives adults the tools to spark further conversations and discussion.
ABC Pride offers a simple yet powerful way to explain gender, identity, ability to children, while supporting diverse family units. Ideal for children to explore together with a caregiver, or in the classroom.
ABC Pride introduces little readers to the alphabet through the colorful world of Pride. Children can discover letters and words while also learning more about the LGBTQIA+ community and how to be inclusive.
Every letter of the alphabet is paired with fun, bold illustrations to support language learning, and a handy list of discussion points at the end gives adults the tools to spark further conversations and discussion.
ABC Pride offers a simple yet powerful way to explain gender, identity, ability to children, while supporting diverse family units. Ideal for children to explore together with a caregiver, or in the classroom.
32 pages, Hardcover
Published June 14, 2022
73 people want to read
About the author
Louie Stowell
110 books72 followersLouie Stowell started her career writing carefully researched books about space, ancient Egypt, politics, and science, but eventually she lapsed into just making stuff up. She likes writing about dragons, wizards, vampires, fairies, monsters, and parallel worlds. Louie Stowell currently works as the publisher of Ladybird Books and lives in London with her wife, Karen; her dog, Buffy; and a creepy puppet that is probably cursed.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
June 8, 2022
Drop kick this book into the trash.
July 13, 2022
This was a fun, bright, and inspiring read.
Perfect for much younger readers, the colourful illustrations and easy to read, short-sentenced definitions allowed for an easy to follow, positive reading experience.
I really appreciated the inclusivity throughout this book - the use of different flags, different abilities and ethnicities created an inclusive read, and painted a beautiful picture of our community.
Each letter of the alphabet includes a Pride themed word and definition, keeping the topics light and fun. (One of my favourites was E is for Equity ... I feel this was a much better option than the expected 'Equality' and is much more inclusive!)
I felt the lack of specified sexuality based terms a very good move within this book - I feel that by not defining attraction beyond 'love' is extremely beneficial to younger readers, keeping it age appropriate (but a shout out to my Aromantics - you've been included in this book under 'L is for Love' too!!)
The discussion points at the end of the book helped to further the conversation and made for great talking points.
Happy 50th Pride, London!
Thank you to DK Books, Louie Stowell and PrideBookTours(Instagram) for the physical copy of this beautiful book - it will live on our shelves and be shared with the young people in our lives for years to come!
Perfect for much younger readers, the colourful illustrations and easy to read, short-sentenced definitions allowed for an easy to follow, positive reading experience.
I really appreciated the inclusivity throughout this book - the use of different flags, different abilities and ethnicities created an inclusive read, and painted a beautiful picture of our community.
Each letter of the alphabet includes a Pride themed word and definition, keeping the topics light and fun. (One of my favourites was E is for Equity ... I feel this was a much better option than the expected 'Equality' and is much more inclusive!)
I felt the lack of specified sexuality based terms a very good move within this book - I feel that by not defining attraction beyond 'love' is extremely beneficial to younger readers, keeping it age appropriate (but a shout out to my Aromantics - you've been included in this book under 'L is for Love' too!!)
The discussion points at the end of the book helped to further the conversation and made for great talking points.
Happy 50th Pride, London!
Thank you to DK Books, Louie Stowell and PrideBookTours(Instagram) for the physical copy of this beautiful book - it will live on our shelves and be shared with the young people in our lives for years to come!
June 20, 2022
What an absolutely perfect alphabet book!
Louie Stowell and Dr. Elly Barnes clearly had so much fun coming up with an appropriate and coordinating word for each letter in the alphabet in ABC Pride. From “acceptance” to “justice” to “understanding”, there’s a positive word for each and every letter.
The colors pop right off the page, and Amy Phelps’ charming illustrations will appeal to everyone.
Just right for Pride Month, and every other month of the year, Elly Barnes and Louie Stowell’s ABC Pride will be at home in every school library, and every family’s house.
thank you to DK Publishers via NetGalley for providing an ARC of ABC Pride for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
Louie Stowell and Dr. Elly Barnes clearly had so much fun coming up with an appropriate and coordinating word for each letter in the alphabet in ABC Pride. From “acceptance” to “justice” to “understanding”, there’s a positive word for each and every letter.
The colors pop right off the page, and Amy Phelps’ charming illustrations will appeal to everyone.
Just right for Pride Month, and every other month of the year, Elly Barnes and Louie Stowell’s ABC Pride will be at home in every school library, and every family’s house.
thank you to DK Publishers via NetGalley for providing an ARC of ABC Pride for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
June 12, 2022
Toddler tested, Mother approved! My daughter really enjoyed scrolling through this picture book. She'd recite the letter then tell me all the colors she'd see and ask her favorite phrase "whats that?" She's two.
This book was so colorful and fun to read. The pages are informative but presented in very easy concepts for children (and adults) to understand. This is an excellent way to begin conversations with your children.
Thank you NetGalley and DK publishing for let me read this book in exchange for my honest review!
This book was so colorful and fun to read. The pages are informative but presented in very easy concepts for children (and adults) to understand. This is an excellent way to begin conversations with your children.
Thank you NetGalley and DK publishing for let me read this book in exchange for my honest review!
June 10, 2022
un buen libro para niños, que aprendan con cada letra del abecedario una palabra diferente que tenga que ver con algo de la comunidad.
thanks netgalley for a copy of this book.
thanks netgalley for a copy of this book.
August 10, 2022
Girls and women, especially lesbian women are erased and gaslit in this piece of ideological propaganda for kids.
December 5, 2025
spelling is fun!
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August 1, 2022This book is okay?
The illustrations are good (and I love the cover), but it's teachy in a way that feels somewhat dry. And the ~definitions vary in quality. It has discussion questions at the end to prompt more conversations with kids, but it doesn't have any explicitly educational backmatter -- like identifying the various pride flags used in the book, which is disappointing.
More detailed thoughts below, but that's the summary.
***
The words are mostly not queer-community-specific, though they're all connected to the theme, and this is often explicit in the illustrations (e.g., "C is for celebrate" is illustrated with two women getting married, "H is for human rights" is illustrated with what I think is two men with a baby, seahorses in "K is for kindness"!). I always forget until I start actually reading a queer alphabet book that of course there aren't queer-specific words for every letter (and some letters have multiple important words), but I still find myself disappointed every time. I recognize this is a me-problem, but on reflection, I think part of my struggle is that I feel this book is trying to balance reaching folks outside of the community and folks within the community, and doesn't feel to me like it really hits either one. I think in part because of the vagueness of so many of the definitions?
I think this book is trying to be accessible to a pretty young audience, hence the sometimes somewhat awkward definitions -- e.g., "L is for love. Love is a feeling you have for someone who is very special to you. You can love whoever you want---or no one, as not everyone falls in love." Like, I appreciate the inclusion of aromanticism, but the conflation of "love" generally and "falling in love" specifically isn't great. (This use of love comes back in "Q is for questioning. It's okay not to know your gender and who you love or don't love. Your feelings might change too, and that's OK." The use of "love" there is definitely somewhat awkward, but I do appreciate the affirmation that not only is not-knowing okay, but it's okay if your feelings change.)
Particularly awkwardly phrased are "G is for gender. Something people guess about you based on how you dress or how your body looks. But you know best who you are." and "S is for stereotypes. When you think you know who a person is and what they feel because of how they look. Clothes and colors are for everyone."
Kind of wrong is "N is for non-binary. A word for a person who doesn't see themselves as a particular gender." Uh, maybe genderfluid? My partner said really it would be agender. Regardless, lots of non-binary folks do see themselves as a particular gender -- that gender just isn't "one of the two binary genders 100% of the time."
Pretty solid is "T is for trans. Someone whose gender does not match what was written on their birth certificate when they were born."
And it does include the neopronoun "xe" for X (and includes a pronunciation note -- "zee" -- and a blackboard with "xe/xem," which gestures at how the pronoun is declined).
(The Acknowledgments at the back of the book say, "Thanks to the authors, Dr Elly Barnes MBE and Louie Stowell, for their text. This title was created with support from the DK Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Team. Thanks to the Product and Content Working Group for their input and guidance. DK would also like to thank Fox Fisher and Leon Winham for consulting on this title, and Rosie Peet for editorial assistance." I would be so interested to know what input and guidance these outside folks offered and how that got incorporated into the final product.
I don't know what Louie Stowell's relationship to the queer community is or why she chose to be involved with this book [I can't even find the book anywhere on her website], but Elly Barnes is a lesbian and does LGBT+ education and advocacy as her job.
Illustrator Amy Phelps' IG says "They/he/she" and their website says "I have a deep love for picture books and other art for children, especially with elements of fantasy and fairytale worlds, as well as stories centered around LGBT+ themes and positive messages about mental health.")
***
This book is encouraging kids to be affirming of the LGBTQ+ community/to find their place within it, but doesn't do a lot of actual education.
It literally has a page that says, "F is for flag. There are lots of flags that people use to show us who they are," but never actually defines any of the flags, which is frustrating because the adult reader is very unlikely to know all the flags. (Also, the yellow on the flags looks somewhat orange, which made me struggle to identify the non-binary flag.)
The opening "How to use the book" page includes a clothesline of flags, but doesn't define them.
They're the genderqueer, lesbian, non-binary, gay man*, Progress Pride, and intersex flags.
The "F is for flag" page repeats that clothesline and adds above it a clothesline of the following flags: agender, transgender, bisexual, asexual, pansexual. (I did appreciate the inclusion of the ace pride flag -- something missing from Pride Puppy , which was generally oh so good.)
Kids are super-likely to ask what the flags are -- especially if they already recognize some of them (because they then already know that the flags have meaning) -- and even I, a queer millennial who is pretty online and pretty plugged into queer community stuff, struggled to identify all those flags from memory.
* I was today years old when I learned there's been a lot of controversy about this flag (and that the gay man pride flag is NOT the vincian pride flag -- today I also learned that "Vincian" comes from da Vinci).
***
The discussion questions are fine. They link (with varying degrees of strength) to some of the alphabet words in the week and are mostly fairly general but do include "Questioning: What questions do you have about the LGBTQ+ community?" I would appreciate "Xe: Practice saying some pronouns together." more if it came with any sort of list of (neo)pronouns.
The illustrations are good (and I love the cover), but it's teachy in a way that feels somewhat dry. And the ~definitions vary in quality. It has discussion questions at the end to prompt more conversations with kids, but it doesn't have any explicitly educational backmatter -- like identifying the various pride flags used in the book, which is disappointing.
More detailed thoughts below, but that's the summary.
***
The words are mostly not queer-community-specific, though they're all connected to the theme, and this is often explicit in the illustrations (e.g., "C is for celebrate" is illustrated with two women getting married, "H is for human rights" is illustrated with what I think is two men with a baby, seahorses in "K is for kindness"!). I always forget until I start actually reading a queer alphabet book that of course there aren't queer-specific words for every letter (and some letters have multiple important words), but I still find myself disappointed every time. I recognize this is a me-problem, but on reflection, I think part of my struggle is that I feel this book is trying to balance reaching folks outside of the community and folks within the community, and doesn't feel to me like it really hits either one. I think in part because of the vagueness of so many of the definitions?
I think this book is trying to be accessible to a pretty young audience, hence the sometimes somewhat awkward definitions -- e.g., "L is for love. Love is a feeling you have for someone who is very special to you. You can love whoever you want---or no one, as not everyone falls in love." Like, I appreciate the inclusion of aromanticism, but the conflation of "love" generally and "falling in love" specifically isn't great. (This use of love comes back in "Q is for questioning. It's okay not to know your gender and who you love or don't love. Your feelings might change too, and that's OK." The use of "love" there is definitely somewhat awkward, but I do appreciate the affirmation that not only is not-knowing okay, but it's okay if your feelings change.)
Particularly awkwardly phrased are "G is for gender. Something people guess about you based on how you dress or how your body looks. But you know best who you are." and "S is for stereotypes. When you think you know who a person is and what they feel because of how they look. Clothes and colors are for everyone."
Kind of wrong is "N is for non-binary. A word for a person who doesn't see themselves as a particular gender." Uh, maybe genderfluid? My partner said really it would be agender. Regardless, lots of non-binary folks do see themselves as a particular gender -- that gender just isn't "one of the two binary genders 100% of the time."
Pretty solid is "T is for trans. Someone whose gender does not match what was written on their birth certificate when they were born."
And it does include the neopronoun "xe" for X (and includes a pronunciation note -- "zee" -- and a blackboard with "xe/xem," which gestures at how the pronoun is declined).
(The Acknowledgments at the back of the book say, "Thanks to the authors, Dr Elly Barnes MBE and Louie Stowell, for their text. This title was created with support from the DK Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Team. Thanks to the Product and Content Working Group for their input and guidance. DK would also like to thank Fox Fisher and Leon Winham for consulting on this title, and Rosie Peet for editorial assistance." I would be so interested to know what input and guidance these outside folks offered and how that got incorporated into the final product.
I don't know what Louie Stowell's relationship to the queer community is or why she chose to be involved with this book [I can't even find the book anywhere on her website], but Elly Barnes is a lesbian and does LGBT+ education and advocacy as her job.
Illustrator Amy Phelps' IG says "They/he/she" and their website says "I have a deep love for picture books and other art for children, especially with elements of fantasy and fairytale worlds, as well as stories centered around LGBT+ themes and positive messages about mental health.")
***
This book is encouraging kids to be affirming of the LGBTQ+ community/to find their place within it, but doesn't do a lot of actual education.
It literally has a page that says, "F is for flag. There are lots of flags that people use to show us who they are," but never actually defines any of the flags, which is frustrating because the adult reader is very unlikely to know all the flags. (Also, the yellow on the flags looks somewhat orange, which made me struggle to identify the non-binary flag.)
The opening "How to use the book" page includes a clothesline of flags, but doesn't define them.
They're the genderqueer, lesbian, non-binary, gay man*, Progress Pride, and intersex flags.
The "F is for flag" page repeats that clothesline and adds above it a clothesline of the following flags: agender, transgender, bisexual, asexual, pansexual. (I did appreciate the inclusion of the ace pride flag -- something missing from Pride Puppy , which was generally oh so good.)
Kids are super-likely to ask what the flags are -- especially if they already recognize some of them (because they then already know that the flags have meaning) -- and even I, a queer millennial who is pretty online and pretty plugged into queer community stuff, struggled to identify all those flags from memory.
* I was today years old when I learned there's been a lot of controversy about this flag (and that the gay man pride flag is NOT the vincian pride flag -- today I also learned that "Vincian" comes from da Vinci).
***
The discussion questions are fine. They link (with varying degrees of strength) to some of the alphabet words in the week and are mostly fairly general but do include "Questioning: What questions do you have about the LGBTQ+ community?" I would appreciate "Xe: Practice saying some pronouns together." more if it came with any sort of list of (neo)pronouns.
June 18, 2022
This story follows an alphabet approach where each page represents a different element of pride and LGBTQ+ themes for each letter. For example, c for celebrate, o for out and t for trans. The story perfectly articulates that all people are different and special and that Pride is about celebrating these differences and being true to yourself. The diversity and acceptance within this story makes it a fantastic addition to any early years classroom library. As a teacher, I would recommend this book for teachers and families of children ages 3-9, especially for those looking for texts that demonstrate the value of diversity and inclusion. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me the opportunity to read and review this great book!
January 2, 2023
This seems like an excellent book to talk about pride, identity and being and finding yourself. I wish it explained a bit more terms, but at the same time I sort of like it!
June 10, 2022
A great book that follows the typical ABC learning book (A is for apple...) but with queer terms (A is for Acceptance) and then gives an explanation of what everything means.
Thank you to netgalley for a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
Thank you to netgalley for a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
June 6, 2022
I read this book with my kids who are 5.5. They loved the illustrations and discussion questions.
We received this book as a free eARC from NetGalley.
As an ebook it was a big harder to access but that was more due to the app and format for a picture style book. It’s still a wonderful book.
We received this book as a free eARC from NetGalley.
As an ebook it was a big harder to access but that was more due to the app and format for a picture style book. It’s still a wonderful book.
March 7, 2025
This is inappropriate for children it’s indoctrination aimed at little kids learning their abcs
June 2, 2022
Before reviewing ABC Pride properly, I have to comment on the quality of DK books. They are always so well made with strong, sustainably resourced robust covers and good quality paper that gives a feeling of luxury. ABC Pride is no exception. These are books to cherish.
I am certain that I have never encountered a more inclusive children’s book than ABC Pride and much of that inclusion comes from the fabulous illustrations by Amy Phelps. Between the covers of ABC Pride are people of all ages and ethnicity, genders or none at all, abilities and sizes. I think it’s the first time, for example I’ve seen an illustration of someone wearing a hearing aid in a general book rather than one aimed specifically at those with hearing impairment. The illustrations are at the very heart of this book and contribute to the largest part of its success.
Structured alphabetically, ABC Pride celebrates all aspects of inclusion in a way that promotes literacy, particularly through reference to pronouns, for example and through the variety of vocabulary. Indeed, I think ABC Pride can be used as a picture book with young children, but that words like ‘honesty’ and ‘harmony’ might need explaining so that children are learning a new vocabulary too. The balance of text to image is perfect in not overwhelming reluctant older readers or more confident emergent readers.
What ABC Pride does so well is that it ensures that there is a normality and inclusion for all, so that any child (or indeed those older) can understand they have as much value as any other person. This is such an important and profound message. With the addition of discussion points at the end of the book that enable parents, teachers and carers to provide opportunities for children to express their views and questions ABC Pride has a value beyond simply reading it.
I think ABC Pride might be the most important book of its kind in years. I really recommend it.
I am certain that I have never encountered a more inclusive children’s book than ABC Pride and much of that inclusion comes from the fabulous illustrations by Amy Phelps. Between the covers of ABC Pride are people of all ages and ethnicity, genders or none at all, abilities and sizes. I think it’s the first time, for example I’ve seen an illustration of someone wearing a hearing aid in a general book rather than one aimed specifically at those with hearing impairment. The illustrations are at the very heart of this book and contribute to the largest part of its success.
Structured alphabetically, ABC Pride celebrates all aspects of inclusion in a way that promotes literacy, particularly through reference to pronouns, for example and through the variety of vocabulary. Indeed, I think ABC Pride can be used as a picture book with young children, but that words like ‘honesty’ and ‘harmony’ might need explaining so that children are learning a new vocabulary too. The balance of text to image is perfect in not overwhelming reluctant older readers or more confident emergent readers.
What ABC Pride does so well is that it ensures that there is a normality and inclusion for all, so that any child (or indeed those older) can understand they have as much value as any other person. This is such an important and profound message. With the addition of discussion points at the end of the book that enable parents, teachers and carers to provide opportunities for children to express their views and questions ABC Pride has a value beyond simply reading it.
I think ABC Pride might be the most important book of its kind in years. I really recommend it.
July 9, 2022
ABC Pride
by Louie Stowell; Elly Barnes
I received a digital copy of this picture book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I’d like to preface this by saying I personally grew up in a rural area with almost no diversity so I’m raising my children in an area with much more diversity including members of the LGBTQAI2S+ community in our extended chosen family, church family and among our friends. The way I raise my kiddos is that everyone’s unique in their own way and as long as it doesn’t hurt anyone else that’s just fine and that it’s not a big deal.
Representation is important, seeing people in books that represent themselves or the people they care about makes a big difference for kids.
Some of the words will require added context from parents to explain further. Sometimes it’s nice to add your own context like for us it would be - yes see they’re just like your BFFs two aunts that we went to the pumpkin patch with. They’re kids call them mom and mommy.
Some parents may be looking for a book that does all the explanations for them on a topic they don’t feel fully knowledgeable of. This is not really a book that will hold your hand through the topics if that’s your situation,it’s more of a framework to build a larger conversation on.
Great pictures. Very colorful. 4.5/5 only because there are words like stereotype that will be difficult for kids in the ABC book age bracket to grasp because it’s not something you hear in conversation often at that age.
by Louie Stowell; Elly Barnes
I received a digital copy of this picture book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I’d like to preface this by saying I personally grew up in a rural area with almost no diversity so I’m raising my children in an area with much more diversity including members of the LGBTQAI2S+ community in our extended chosen family, church family and among our friends. The way I raise my kiddos is that everyone’s unique in their own way and as long as it doesn’t hurt anyone else that’s just fine and that it’s not a big deal.
Representation is important, seeing people in books that represent themselves or the people they care about makes a big difference for kids.
Some of the words will require added context from parents to explain further. Sometimes it’s nice to add your own context like for us it would be - yes see they’re just like your BFFs two aunts that we went to the pumpkin patch with. They’re kids call them mom and mommy.
Some parents may be looking for a book that does all the explanations for them on a topic they don’t feel fully knowledgeable of. This is not really a book that will hold your hand through the topics if that’s your situation,it’s more of a framework to build a larger conversation on.
Great pictures. Very colorful. 4.5/5 only because there are words like stereotype that will be difficult for kids in the ABC book age bracket to grasp because it’s not something you hear in conversation often at that age.
June 21, 2022
ABC Pride by Dr Elly Barnes MBE and Louie Stowell, and illustrated by Amy Phelps is a fantastic book for children to learn more about LGBTQ+ people and topics through the alphabet.
It provides simple meanings for words that might not be obvious to children, like "non-binary," "trans," and what being "out" means. When it comes to sexual orientations, the focus is on love - who a person loves and/or who they don't, which I really liked. With people wanting books banned, and the idea that teaching about LGBTQ+ people is somehow related to sex, as if it's something sordid, the emphasis on love here is really beautiful. It also discusses neo pronouns with "xe" being the word for X. What's great is how some of the words, like "kindness" and "understanding," overlap for life and empathy in general, and others like "justice" and "march," that overlap with other civil rights issues, as well as words that are specific to LGBTQ+ people and Pride.
The illustrations are simple yet beautiful, with people of colour, disabled people, and people wearing hijab represented. It's great to see how the words have been represented in the illustrations, which can be used to help explain some of the more difficult to explain ideas, like "equity," or as a further talking point.
ABC Pride is a a really lovely book, and would make a great introduction to LGBTQ+ topics and Pride, or a great addition to a child's LGBTQ+ library.
It provides simple meanings for words that might not be obvious to children, like "non-binary," "trans," and what being "out" means. When it comes to sexual orientations, the focus is on love - who a person loves and/or who they don't, which I really liked. With people wanting books banned, and the idea that teaching about LGBTQ+ people is somehow related to sex, as if it's something sordid, the emphasis on love here is really beautiful. It also discusses neo pronouns with "xe" being the word for X. What's great is how some of the words, like "kindness" and "understanding," overlap for life and empathy in general, and others like "justice" and "march," that overlap with other civil rights issues, as well as words that are specific to LGBTQ+ people and Pride.
The illustrations are simple yet beautiful, with people of colour, disabled people, and people wearing hijab represented. It's great to see how the words have been represented in the illustrations, which can be used to help explain some of the more difficult to explain ideas, like "equity," or as a further talking point.
ABC Pride is a a really lovely book, and would make a great introduction to LGBTQ+ topics and Pride, or a great addition to a child's LGBTQ+ library.
Read
October 2, 2022ABC Pride, by Louie Stowell, Elly Barnes, and Amy Phelps, is an exciting and engaging children’s picture book that introduces its young readers to key concepts important to the LGBTQIA+ community in a safe, warm, and educational way. The eye-catching, vibrant illustrations that accompany each letter of the alphabet portray humans in all of their brilliant diversity, showing individuals and family units of different races, genders, sizes, and abilities who are celebrated for their differences and honored for their shared humanity. It is a comfort to know that today’s children have such a book to see themselves, their families, and their friends reflected in. I particularly appreciated that this book did not just define the labels used by LGBTQIA+ people but also highlighted words such as acceptance and community to guide young readers towards both a greater understanding and greater empathy. This book achieves what it sets out to do: create a space for children to explore, ask questions, and have conversations with trusted adults. While some of the words were a bit advanced for the target demographic, with a parent or caregiver around willing to provide context and additional explanation, this will make a great teaching guide and building block for further inquiry.
eARC provided by NetGalley and DK Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
June 10, 2022
ABC Pride is a Children's picture book that showcases the alphabet and some corresponding words that go along with pride and celebrating who, your loved ones, and everyone else are.
The cover artwork is bright and caught our eyes immediately. I love the illustration style of this book. It's very inviting and calm.
Throughout the pages, you'll see the same type of artwork and bright illustrations. As well as information that was well thought out for kids on how to explain some elements of Pride and how we can be understanding of everyone and just a decent human being.
Some letters showcases are N for Non-Binary, K for Kindness, and T for Trans. We love the variety explained and the explanations were easy to understand and we even learned a few things during our read that we (the adults) hadn't known prior.
5 Stars. Would recommend and we'll be adding this to our collection.
Thanks to the publisher, DK, the author, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC copy to read and review. Review will also be posted to my blog (www.kagoodsell.com/book-reviews), GoodReads, TikTok (@unearthingeco), as well as NetGalley reviews.
The cover artwork is bright and caught our eyes immediately. I love the illustration style of this book. It's very inviting and calm.
Throughout the pages, you'll see the same type of artwork and bright illustrations. As well as information that was well thought out for kids on how to explain some elements of Pride and how we can be understanding of everyone and just a decent human being.
Some letters showcases are N for Non-Binary, K for Kindness, and T for Trans. We love the variety explained and the explanations were easy to understand and we even learned a few things during our read that we (the adults) hadn't known prior.
5 Stars. Would recommend and we'll be adding this to our collection.
Thanks to the publisher, DK, the author, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC copy to read and review. Review will also be posted to my blog (www.kagoodsell.com/book-reviews), GoodReads, TikTok (@unearthingeco), as well as NetGalley reviews.
June 6, 2022
I loved this book and can't wait to read it with my second grader. Yes, he's maybe a tad older than the target audience but I think he'll still get a lot out of it and the amount of text is perfect for him to practice reading aloud.
The illustrations are cute and draw you in, and they're very diverse and inclusive! I was impressed with the way the illustrations feature a lot of racial diversity and a wide range of disabilities along with the LGBT+ diversity. Kudos to the illustrator because I don't think I've seen a more inclusive, diverse children's book.
I love the words that were chosen and the simple, easy-to-understand way they were each explained. For something that seems simple on the surface, there's a lot of thought that went into this book. I can already tell it will spark some reflection and thought in my kiddo.
*Thanks to NetGalley and DK Children for providing an e-arc for review.
The illustrations are cute and draw you in, and they're very diverse and inclusive! I was impressed with the way the illustrations feature a lot of racial diversity and a wide range of disabilities along with the LGBT+ diversity. Kudos to the illustrator because I don't think I've seen a more inclusive, diverse children's book.
I love the words that were chosen and the simple, easy-to-understand way they were each explained. For something that seems simple on the surface, there's a lot of thought that went into this book. I can already tell it will spark some reflection and thought in my kiddo.
*Thanks to NetGalley and DK Children for providing an e-arc for review.
June 9, 2022
This is not your typical ABC book, nor is it a cash grab tied to Rainbow Capitalism. ABC Pride by Dr. Elly Barnes and Louie Stowell sets age-appropriate definitions for complex topics like equity, acceptance, gender, and human rights. This may be a children's book but frankly, there are plenty of adults who I think could benefit from the clear, matter-of-fact messaging of this well-illustrated and well-written book. Dr. Barnes in particular is the founder and CEO of a nonprofit that focuses on teacher training and resource programs focused on inclusion, LGBTQIA rights, and social justice. She is a leading global expert who I would absolutely trust to guide the next generation.
Additionally, this book has guided discussion points for parents and their kids to talk about the topics defined in this book. Absolutely preordering a whole stack of these to gift to all my new mama friends.
*I received a free advanced digital copy in exchange for my honest review
Additionally, this book has guided discussion points for parents and their kids to talk about the topics defined in this book. Absolutely preordering a whole stack of these to gift to all my new mama friends.
*I received a free advanced digital copy in exchange for my honest review
June 15, 2023
This...was bland.
The illustrations are great and vibrant and lovely. And the alphabet format is...okay. I appreciate the author not trying to make this rhyme. But a lot of the book felt like it was about love and acceptance and being kind but not really about Pride at all. It just felt very "I need a Pride themed picture book to put on display so create one quick" bland.
The one that bugged me, though, is L is for Love. "Love is a feeling you have for someone who is very special to you. You can love whoever you want -- or no one, as not everyone falls in love." I get what that is TRYING to do, but there's a conflation of "love" with "falling in love" that seemed inappropriate for a children's book. People love their dogs. Their parents. Their friends. Their siblings. And someone being aromantic or otherwise on the aspec spectrum does not mean they don't love or that they love "no one." That to me was sad and weird.
I wanted to like this more than I do.
The illustrations are great and vibrant and lovely. And the alphabet format is...okay. I appreciate the author not trying to make this rhyme. But a lot of the book felt like it was about love and acceptance and being kind but not really about Pride at all. It just felt very "I need a Pride themed picture book to put on display so create one quick" bland.
The one that bugged me, though, is L is for Love. "Love is a feeling you have for someone who is very special to you. You can love whoever you want -- or no one, as not everyone falls in love." I get what that is TRYING to do, but there's a conflation of "love" with "falling in love" that seemed inappropriate for a children's book. People love their dogs. Their parents. Their friends. Their siblings. And someone being aromantic or otherwise on the aspec spectrum does not mean they don't love or that they love "no one." That to me was sad and weird.
I wanted to like this more than I do.
June 13, 2022
I’d like to start this off by saying the inclusivity was very up to and exceeded my expectations. We see people from all walks of life illustrated in, ‘ABC Pride’.
The illustrations were very vibrant and full of life and color. I even spotted a walking and hearing aid on a younger person.
I think they covered a lot both in illustrations and the actual book itself. The mention of Xer and Wigs was certainly something unexpected but unbelievably appreciated none the less.
I’m typically very cautious on what books to have around my son. I’d argue that’s purely due to the fact that a lot of children’s books put emphasis on manners, god and respect for your elders — all of which I don’t teach. However this book is something I not only approve of but I’m so excited to see exists. It brings tears to my eyes to see so much acceptance and inclusivity in such a simple way for children.
This is absolutely a tool all parents should have and share with their families and I’m grateful to have sampled it for free beforehand and hopefully helped some hesitant parents out there make a decision.
5/5 stars, this book is absolutely something we will be purchasing for the next upcoming holiday and included in our weekly rotation of books.
The illustrations were very vibrant and full of life and color. I even spotted a walking and hearing aid on a younger person.
I think they covered a lot both in illustrations and the actual book itself. The mention of Xer and Wigs was certainly something unexpected but unbelievably appreciated none the less.
I’m typically very cautious on what books to have around my son. I’d argue that’s purely due to the fact that a lot of children’s books put emphasis on manners, god and respect for your elders — all of which I don’t teach. However this book is something I not only approve of but I’m so excited to see exists. It brings tears to my eyes to see so much acceptance and inclusivity in such a simple way for children.
This is absolutely a tool all parents should have and share with their families and I’m grateful to have sampled it for free beforehand and hopefully helped some hesitant parents out there make a decision.
5/5 stars, this book is absolutely something we will be purchasing for the next upcoming holiday and included in our weekly rotation of books.
June 16, 2023
Kids and teachers alike liked this as a read aloud. The illustrations are lovely and quite diverse. Some pages had quite good simple explanations of terms, prompting some good discussions.
The main downside is that some of the explanations aren't good, with nonbinary being the most blatantly wrong example. "A word for a person who doesn't see themselves as a particular gender." That's just not accurate at all. When reading it I replaced that with "A word for a person who doesn't see themself as a boy or a girl." That definition isn't perfect, but it gets the gist of it in a way young kids understand, which is a big improvement over what's on the page.
It also felt a bit dry to me. That wasn't an issue with chattier classes, who were pointing things out on the page and asking questions, but with quiet listeners it sometimes felt like I was reading out a list of definitions.
The main downside is that some of the explanations aren't good, with nonbinary being the most blatantly wrong example. "A word for a person who doesn't see themselves as a particular gender." That's just not accurate at all. When reading it I replaced that with "A word for a person who doesn't see themself as a boy or a girl." That definition isn't perfect, but it gets the gist of it in a way young kids understand, which is a big improvement over what's on the page.
It also felt a bit dry to me. That wasn't an issue with chattier classes, who were pointing things out on the page and asking questions, but with quiet listeners it sometimes felt like I was reading out a list of definitions.
June 4, 2022
Thank you very much DK books for a copy of ABC Pride in exchange of my honest opinion.
I am very, very lucky I got sent this book. It was an absolute pleasure to read and to learn some more about the LGBTQ+ community.
This is the kind of book that should be in every household, nursery and school. It is essential we teach children from a very young age that every person is different, feel different, act different and dress different. And that is totally okay.
These pages scream respect, kindness, information, knowledge and tolerance.
I also adored the illustrations, as it really shows what the words want to broadcast.
Lastly, I really liked the questions and discussion at the end. I thing they are a great way to start a debate and find out more about the community.
I am very, very lucky I got sent this book. It was an absolute pleasure to read and to learn some more about the LGBTQ+ community.
This is the kind of book that should be in every household, nursery and school. It is essential we teach children from a very young age that every person is different, feel different, act different and dress different. And that is totally okay.
These pages scream respect, kindness, information, knowledge and tolerance.
I also adored the illustrations, as it really shows what the words want to broadcast.
Lastly, I really liked the questions and discussion at the end. I thing they are a great way to start a debate and find out more about the community.
June 9, 2022
ABC Pride
5 Stars
I absolutely love this book and was so happy to read ABC Pride. This was a much needed book when my children were younger and is definitely needed in today’s society. Each word chosen fits well. The illustrations are bright, colorful and with diverse characters. I adored the section with questions & discussion. My youngest daughter has ADHD, and she learns better with movement while talking. I appreciate this book acknowledging that each child learns differently.
This is a great book for younger children with a little growing room for deeper conversations in the future. I'd highly recommend this book and plan to buy a copy for my personal library.
Thank you, NetGalley and DK Children, for providing me with a digital ARC for an honest review.
5 Stars
I absolutely love this book and was so happy to read ABC Pride. This was a much needed book when my children were younger and is definitely needed in today’s society. Each word chosen fits well. The illustrations are bright, colorful and with diverse characters. I adored the section with questions & discussion. My youngest daughter has ADHD, and she learns better with movement while talking. I appreciate this book acknowledging that each child learns differently.
This is a great book for younger children with a little growing room for deeper conversations in the future. I'd highly recommend this book and plan to buy a copy for my personal library.
Thank you, NetGalley and DK Children, for providing me with a digital ARC for an honest review.
June 15, 2022
As an unfortunate resident of a state where reading this to kids would now be an act of civil disobedience, I'm so glad this exists, as it's the quickest, most effective way to right that wrong!
Using alphabet practice as a familiar framework, this book highlights and explains topics surrounding pride, gender expression, justice, etc. in a gentle and straightforward manner. It can prompt discussion if a young reader has questions or just function as a basic introduction to concepts like pronouns, protest, and self-acceptance. The overall message consistently reinforces love, kindness, and care for each other and that's a great thing for all kids to hear.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review!
Using alphabet practice as a familiar framework, this book highlights and explains topics surrounding pride, gender expression, justice, etc. in a gentle and straightforward manner. It can prompt discussion if a young reader has questions or just function as a basic introduction to concepts like pronouns, protest, and self-acceptance. The overall message consistently reinforces love, kindness, and care for each other and that's a great thing for all kids to hear.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review!
June 18, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and DK Children for the DRC of ”ABC Pride" by Louie Stowell and Elly Barnes. What an absolute pleasure of a book to read. This may be marketed as a children’s book, but this book is for everyone! Each letter of the alphabet is used as a starting point to teach about Pride. Beautiful and bold illustrations accompany each word, and a short definition/explanation about the word and what it means in the context of Pride. This book is positive, uplifting, and accepting. I would highly recommend this to anyone and EVERYONE. This is one that I will definitely be adding to my own print collection at home. There’s also some great discussion questions to use as starting points when talking with learners about the many different and wonderful aspects of Pride.
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July 9, 2022Thank you to NetGalley and DK Children for the DRC of ”ABC Pride" by Louie Stowell and Elly Barnes. What an absolute pleasure of a book to read. This may be marketed as a children’s book, but this book is for everyone! Each letter of the alphabet is used as a starting point to teach about Pride. Beautiful and bold illustrations accompany each word, and a short definition/explanation about the word and what it means in the context of Pride. This book is positive, uplifting, and accepting. I would highly recommend this to anyone and EVERYONE. This is one that I will definitely be adding to my own print collection at home. There’s also some great discussion questions to use as starting points when talking with learners about the many different and wonderful aspects of Pride.
June 10, 2022
A wonderful introduction to both the alphabet and compassionate ideals, both generalized AND specific to the LGBTQ+ community. Some of these include: "C is for Celebrate," "G is for Gender," "J is for Justice," "K is for Kindness," "N is for Non-Binary," and "V is for Values." Each page also includes a short sentence or two explaining the idea being presented. The artwork is lovely, colorful, and full of diversity. I will definitely read this one to my kiddos!
Thank you to NetGalley and DK for the ARC for review.
Thank you to NetGalley and DK for the ARC for review.
June 26, 2022
Happy PRIDE!!! Feeling like you belong in your family and community can be empowering. The opposite is a lonely existence that no one should be subjected to. This book is inclusive, positive, and reflects the truth that not everyone believes love is love. This book was written for the entire LGBTQ+ community and is geared towards fostering an age-appropriate understanding that every person is valuable no matter our differences.
As a bonus: the alphabet is followed to a "T" and each page contains beautifully colorful illustrations that represent and celebrate individuality.
As a bonus: the alphabet is followed to a "T" and each page contains beautifully colorful illustrations that represent and celebrate individuality.
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