Recommended Titles to Foster SOGI Inclusive Integrated Curriculum – 2020 - 2021Picture Books

ISBN: 9780316547697

NeitherBy Airlie Anderson

In a land where there only exists “this” or “that,” Neither is unable to achieve a sense of belonging. Experiencing rejection, Neither flees the community, looking for a place to fit in, eventually achieving connection with others willing to embrace diversity in the Land of All.

Suitable for all grades

Provides opportunities to discuss: Simple concepts of binary Community and inclusion Differences and the value of diversity Simple analogy for refugee experiences Avoiding making assumptions about gender (the story

provides an opportunity to practice referring to Neither without imposing gender on the character)

ISBN: 9781481472609

What Riley WoreBy Elena K. Arnold

This clever story follows Riley as Riley dons a series of outfits for a variety of contexts. The clothing selected in each scenario helps Riley feel comfortable and themselves.

Suitable for all grades

Provides opportunities to discuss: recognizing and appreciating differences / withholding

judgement individual preferences freedom of expression what makes a person feel safe / comfortable / powerful how ideas about gender and how it is expressed are

constructed and reinforced being open to friendships / qualities of good friends avoiding making assumptions about gender (the story

provides an opportunity to practice referring to Riley without imposing gender on the character)

ISBN: 9781984847973

Bad DogBy Mike Boldt

A young girl is excited to receive a pet dog for her birthday that she names Rocky. She is quickly disappointed that Rocky does not behave as she expects dogs to. Ultimately, she comes to the conclusion that Rocky would make a really good cat.

Suitable for all grades

Provides opportunities to explore and discuss: Similarities and differences Appreciating unique skills and talents Perception of others based on preconceptions Concepts of authenticity and conforming to expectations

ISBN: 9780997608564

Dazzling TravisBy Hannah Carmona Dias

Told in verse form, this story follows Dazzling Travis’ playful explorations of sports, dance, colour, superheroes, costumes, roles, and dolls. He encounters judgement by those who aren’t comfortable with him not subscribing to a distinct masculine or feminine set of preferences. Travis overcomes this by asserting his identity and exuding confidence.

Includes short descriptions of famous people who also struggled with acceptance because of gender non-conformity or being otherwise regarded as different: including Coco Channel, Langston Hughes, and Seth, a former student of the author, who inspired the story.

Suitable for all grades.

Provides opportunities to discuss:

Freedom to explore preferences Freedom of expressing one’s true self Identity and the aspects that contribute to it Stereotypes about masculinity / femininity Unique qualities, special talents and special interests Vulnerability and resiliency Responding to bullying How to be assertive

ISBN: 9781771742566

The Eagle’s PathBy Michelle Corneau

Anna is initially uncomfortable when her friend, Jill comes out as a lesbian, and Anna decides she no longer wants to be her friend. When she experiences a situation where she is bullied for her Mohawk identity, her supportive mother helps her process her feelings, and resolve her feelings about continuing to be Jill’s friend.

Suitable for Grade 4+

Provides opportunities to discuss: The complex aspects of identity Concept of Two-Spiritedness in Indigenous

communities Kindness / Empathy / Dealing with difficult

feelings Understanding and appreciating differences Acceptance Being a good friend Bullying and / or Discrimination and the

damage causedI Didn’t Stand UpBy Lucy Falcone

Inspired by the poem, “First They Came” by Martin Niemoller, this picture book explores different reasons that people get targeted for bullying, and encourages students to 1) empathize with people who are different, and 2) stand in solidarity with others in the face of mistreatment.

Suitable for Grade 3+Provides opportunities to discuss:

Identity and the aspects that contribute to it Opportunities to talk about vulnerable or marginalized

identities (race, ability, country of origin, religion, gender, sexuality, body image, etc.)

Accepting differences Responding to bullying Allyship / Standing together

ISBN: 9781988347066

ISBN: 9780735264496

Ho’onani: Hula WarriorBy Heather Gale

Ho’onani has difficulty seeing herself as either “girl” or “boy.” Her teacher encourages her to audition to participate in the performance of a traditional Hula chant – roles that are typically reserved for boys.

Suitable for all grades

Provides opportunities to discuss: Gender expression / feelings of connectedness to either

masculine or feminine identities (or to neither, or to both) Avoiding placing limitations on people’s passion or

potential, particularly because of perceived gender roles or expectations

Dealing with fears The importance of support from family members or the

impact of lacking that support

ISBN: 9781499808049

Except When They Don’t By Laura Gehl

Told in verse, this narrative gently challenges some stereotypically gendered norms, by listing messages like “Girls perform to fairy songs. / Boys play football all day long. / Boys yell, “Boo! and run away. / Girls like kittens and ballet. / Except when they don’t.” Strategic use of illustrations helps to deconstruct some of the perceived gender norms and communicate that it’s okay to like what you like, or to play how you want to play.

Suitable for all grades

Provides opportunities to discuss: Concept of preferences What makes you happy Freedom to make choices and to explore and play with the

things that make you happiest Allowing others to be themselves Preconceptions about gender expression Where ideas about femininity and masculinity come from /

Social construction of masculinity and femininity

ISBN: 9781945289170

They, She, He: Easy as ABCBy Maya and Matthew Gonzalez

This alphabet book that explores pronouns introduces a series of characters, highlighting dance moves that they enjoy. A simple statement using their name and their pronouns may help students become familiar with the importance of honouring pronouns.

Suitable for Grades 1+

Provides opportunities to discuss: The concept of what a pronoun is and the importance of

honouring a person’s pronouns Gender roles and stereotypes (some characters are depicted

in ways that are gender non-conforming) Could be used to connect to PHE content and movement,

inviting students to create the dances positions or movements depicted

ISBN: 9781499805529

Prince and KnightBy Daniel Haack

The prince’s parents are eager to find someone to partner with their son, in order to rule over the land. The prince finds an unexpected partner during a quest to save the kingdom from a menacing dragon.

Suitable for Grades 2+

Provides opportunities to discuss: Stereotypes typically portrayed in fairy tales Pressures to conform Attraction and connection Sexual orientation

ISBN: 9781499807769

Maiden and PrincessBy Daniel Haack and Isabel Galupo

In a faraway kingdom, the king and queen decide to host a ball to find their son a “worthy bride.” One young maiden is not so keen to be matched with the prince and ends up pairing up with the princess instead.

Suitable for Grades 2+

Provides opportunities to discuss Stereotypes typically portrayed in fairy tales Pressures to conform Representation of diverse identities (including illustrations

depicting people of colour as prominent characters) Attraction and connection Sexual orientation

ISBN: 9781524773205

Big Boys CryBy Jonty Howley

Levi is afraid to head off to his first day of school, and his dad advises that “big boys don’t cry.” Levi’s observations throughout the day, concluding with reconnecting with his dad when he arrives home, lead him to a renewed understanding about tears.

Suitable for all grades

Provides opportunities to discuss:

Emotional responses / dealing with feelings Observing and interpreting other people’s feelings Preconceptions about masculinity and vulnerability Empathy The impact of declarations like “Boys don’t cry” and how

they can perpetuate misconceptions about healthy masculinity

ISBN: 9781945448300

Some People DoBy Frank Lowe

A playful series of statements that show simple differences and preferences that people may display, but places emphasis on the understanding that “You may not know them / They may not be you, / But Some people are / And some people do. The text is told in poetic form, accompanied by simple illustrations.

Suitable for all grades

Can encourage conversations around preferences and what makes a person happy, while recognizing that not all experiences and / or preferences are shared

Provides a diverse set of simple comparisons that can stimulate discussion around identity

Can be a catalyst for conversations about recognizing and appreciating differences

Aligns nicely with conversations around acceptance and diversity

Provides simple examples of sexual orientation and gender identity that can be explored with more depth

ISBN: 9781620148372

When Aidan Became a BrotherBy Kyle Lukoff

This poignant story features Aidan, a young, transgender child, who is excited about welcoming a new baby into the family. Taking his role as a new big brother seriously, he worries about how the baby will be perceived and wants to ensure that the baby will be welcomed and feel comfortable becoming their authentic self.

Suitable for Grades 3+

Provides opportunities to discuss: Identity and the exploration of it / becoming one’s

authentic self Being part of a family / roles within a family / evolving

family dynamics Acceptance, belonging, and valuing diversity Stereotypes about gender / gender roles and how they are

constructed and reinforced Simple understandings about transgender identities Compassion, empathy, and caring for others Communicating feelings

ISBN: 97881250138583

Harrison Dwight: Ballerina and KnightBy Rachel MacFarlane

This charming story features Harrison Dwight, who is both a ballet dancer and a knight. Harrison shares thoughtful perspectives on exploring interests, responding to emotions, and being his authentic self.

Suitable for all grades.

Provides opportunities to discuss Authenticity / Pride in who you are / Being yourself Passions and interests / what makes you happy Identifying and expressing feelings Stereotypes and misconceptions about boys’ preferences

and interests and how society expects them to behave

ISBN: 9781786037824

High Five to the HeroBy Vita Murrow

Alternate versions of fairy tales featuring familiar heroes (i.e. Pinocchio, King Arthur, Sinbad), but shiftng stories from overcoming adversity through physical battles, to using compassion and logic to solve problems.

Suitable for all grades.

Provides opportunities to explore and discuss: Identity Stereotypes and gender roles in traditional stories Inclusion Respecting others Problem solving

ISBN: 9781786032034

Power to the PrincessBy Vita Murrow

Alternate versions of fairy tales featuring familiar princesses (i.e Cinderella, Rapunzel, Sleeping Beauty) but shifting stories from princesses in distress being rescued by, and eventually marrying some version of Prince Charming, to princesses who solve problems, advocate for others, and deal with situations using their own agency.

Suitable for Grades 3+

Provides opportunities to explore and discuss: Identity Stereotypes and gender roles in traditional stories Inclusion Respecting others Problem solving

ISBN: 9780062846792

Mary Wears What She WantsBy Kevin Negley

This charming story was inspired by Dr. Mary Edwards Walker, one of the first American women known to defy gender norms by wearing pants instead of dresses. It follows Mary’s insistence on wearing pants, her struggle with reactions of her community, and includes a short biography of Mary and her accomplishments.

Suitable for Grades 2+

Provides opportunities to explore and discuss: Gender expectations and stereotypes Individuality Standing up for what you believe in Human Rights and Gender Equality Thinking critically about and forming valid arguments for a

position

ISBN: 9781338349894

I am a TigerBy Karl Newson

This humourous story features Mouse who is convinced they are a Tiger, despite every other animal trying to persuade them otherwise. Relying on traits and behaviours, Mouse continues to see themselves as a tiger until Mouse comes to a new understanding.

Suitable for all grades

Provides opportunities to explore and discuss: Identity Acceptance and belonging Labelling people’s identities Self-identification Perception of self / perception of others Metaphors / analogies

ISBN: 9781101919255

Princess Puffybottom… and DarrylBy Susin Nielsen

Princess Puffybottom is a cat whose life is interrupted when new puppy, Darryl, joins the family. She tries a variety of strategies to get him to leave, and finally chooses to accept his presence, confident that her owners won’t be bringing home any more surprises...until they welcome another addition to the family

Suitable for all grades

Provides opportunities to explore and discuss: Similarities and differences / contrasting cat and dog

behaviours Concepts of belonging and inclusion Families / Different types of families Resolving differences Dealing with surprises / dealing with change

ISBN: 9781773213750

Salma The Syrian ChefBy Danny Ramadan

Newcomer Salma wants is to make her mama smile again. Between English classes, job interviews and missing Papa back in Syria, Mama always seems busy or sad. A homemade Syrian meal might cheer her up, but Salma doesn't know the recipe, or what to call the vegetables in English or where to find the right spices! Luckily, the staff and other newcomers at the Welcome Centre are happy to lend a hand — and a sprinkle of sumac. With creativity, determination and charm, Salma brings her new friends together to show Mama that even though things aren't perfect, there is cause for hope and celebration

Suitable for Provides opportunities to explore and discuss:

Identity Acceptance and belonging Diversity surrounding race, culture, and language Immigration/Refugees Community Problem solving & resiliency Love, friendship, the meaning of home

Board Books

ISBN: 9781499809695

Spirit Day: A Book About Spreading Joy

This board book promotes wearing Purple T-shirts to celebrate Spirit Day on the third Thursday in October to support LGBTQ+ youth. It shares examples of how you can combat bullying by promoting kindness and spreading joy.

Suitable for all grades

Provides opportunities to discuss: Love and affection Celebrating differences and valuing diversity Friendship and the qualities that make a good

friend Combatting bullying Kindness, empathy, and spreading joy

ISBN: 9781499809343

Our RainbowLittle Bee Books

This colourful board book itemizes the symbolism and meaning of each of the bands of colour contained in the Pride Flag.

Suitable for all grades

Provides opportunities to discuss: Pride / Inclusion / Diversity / Acceptance Identity Intersectionality Symbolism

Intermediate Readalouds / Considerations for Lit Circles or Battle of the Books

ISBN: 9780451479402

Zenobia JulyBy Lisa Bunker

Zenobia is a feisty character who is suddenly displaced from her home after her father dies. She moves in with her lesbian aunts, and quickly finds community with a group of friends considered to be misfits, or outcasts. She is keen to keep her transgender identity a secret from her peers, particularly after a fellow trans student is outed. Skilled with the use of computers, she actively engages in trying to solve the mystery of who’s been posting anti-Trans and anti-Muslim posts on her school website using her ingenuity and her hacking skills.

Suitable for Grades 4+

Provides opportunities to discuss: Identity / Authenticity Gender Identity Honouring pronouns Acceptance Friendship / Empathy Problem solving Allyship

ISBN: 9780316515467

Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the WorldBy Ashley Herring Blake

Ivy’s world is uprooted when a tornado strikes, destroying her home and leaving her family struggling to recover. Already feeling displaced by the arrival of twin baby brothers, Ivy is struggling to understand how she fits in to her family. Questions about her identity and her attraction to girls complicates her status with friends and leaves her feeling distant from her peers. She immerses herself in her art to surface and deal with her feelings.

Suitable for Grades 5+

Provides opportunities to discuss: Navigating attraction and sexual orientation Feelings of inclusion or exclusion Family dynamics and how they might evolve over time Resilience / Overcoming adversity Self-care and finding a supportive community Unique qualities, special talents or special interests Using strengths to deal with and process difficult feelings

ISBN: 9780062866417

The Best At It By Maulik Pancholy

Seeking acceptance and admiration, seventh-grade, Rahul Kapoor sets out to find the one thing he can be the best at. Complicating his objective are his concerns about his attraction to other boys, and his family who have arranged a Bazaar at his middle-school to celebrate and promote their Indian culture. The book includes a scene where Rahul and his friends are confronted with “go back where you came from.”

Suitable for Grades 4+

Provides opportunities to discuss: Navigating attraction and sexual orientation Unique qualities, special talents or special interests /

authenticity Feelings of inclusion or exclusion Racism / Privilege / Marginalization Intersectionality Microagressions Responding to bullying / advocating for self and others

Non-Fiction

ISBN: 9781773212425

Bad Boys of Fashion: Style Rebel and Renegades Through the AgesBy Jennnifer Croll

A non-fiction text that explores the impact prominent men on fashion throughout history. The featured men include world leaders, entertainers, athletes, artists, and designers.

Suitable for all Grades 5+

Opportunities to discuss: How men’s attire had changed over time Preconceptions about masculinity or femininity The role that fashion might play in gender expression The influence of non-conformity on innovation

ISBN: 9781773086200

Canadian Celebrations: Anti-Bullying DaysBy Heather C. Hudak

This colourful non-fiction resource uses simple vocabulary and vibrant pictures to inform its readers about Anti-Bullying Days (i.e. Pink Shirt Day, International Day of Pink). It includes simple definitions of what bullying is and some of its impacts and provides positive examples of people taking a stand and getting involved in anti-bullying initiatives.

Suitable for Grades 2 – 5 This may be useful as a resource for ELL and / or Guided

Reading programs. Non-fiction / Part of a series which includes other notable

celebrations (i.e. National Indigenous Peoples Day, Remembrance Day, Family Day)

Effectively demonstrates the use of text features and can help students build understandings about how they are used to support comprehension.

ISBN: 9781459821248

Pride: The Celebration and the StruggleBy Robin Stevenson

A revised and updated version of Pride: Celebrating Diversity and Community with additional material, including additional information about the role of activism in Pride.

Suitable for Grades 4+Opportunities to discuss:

The history of Pride Human rights Differences in the recognition of Pride in different

countries The role of activism in Pride Personal stories and struggles