Illustrated by Xochitl Cornejo
5 stars
A delightful picture book that normalizes questioning one’s gender identity, surrounding yourself with supportive friends and family, and finding a good fit for you.
Payden doesn’t quite feel like a boy and sets out to talk to friends and community members about how they found their pronouns. The books specifically goes through he/him, she/her, they/them, she/ze, and e/em/eir pronouns, demonstrating how to use each. It features a diverse array of unique and engaging trans, gender fluid, cisgender, and nonbinary characters.
I love how each character expresses how they found their pronouns and the feelings finding the right ones evoked. This story is supportive, positive, and fun. Everyone is very accepting of Payden’s journey, providing a balance of advice and space, and being there to celebrate when Payden finds the pronouns that fit best. It also recognizes that pronouns may change over time and it’s okay if something works better for you later.
The artwork is beautiful and vibrart. Lovely, energizing use of color. There is so much joy packed into the visuals.
Fun, positive, and joyful. This book is a great way to discuss pronouns and gender identity with young readers and encourage them to examine their own identities.