LGBTQ Books, TOYS, and GIFTS
THE OTHERWOODS:
A Stonewall Honor Winner
Indie Next Pick
PW Best Book of the Year
Booklist Editor’s Pick
https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/otherwoods-9781547612543
Some would call River Rydell a ‘chosen one’: born with the ability to see monsters and travel to a terrifying spirit world called The Otherwoods, they have all the makings of a hero. But River just calls themself unlucky. After all, it’s not like anyone actually believes River can see these things-or that anyone even believes monsters exist in the first place. So the way River sees it, it’s better to keep their head down and ignore anything Otherwoods related.
When River’s only friend (and crush) Avery is kidnapped and dragged into The Otherwoods by monsters, River has no choice but to confront the world they’ve seen only in their nightmares. With only their cat for protection and a wayward teen spirit as their guide, River must face the monsters of The Otherwoods and their own fears to save Avery and become the hero they were (unfortunately) destined to be.
Justine Pucella Winans will have you cowering and cackling as you follow River’s reluctant hero’s journey, perfect for fans of Doll Bones, Ghost Squad, and Too Bright to See.
THE RAINBOW PARADE
https://read.sourcebooks.com/for-children/9781464224188-the-rainbow-parade-hc-pic-bk.html
Join the celebration at the Rainbow Parade and witness a heartwarming story of acceptance and friendship. In this joyful picture book, LGBTQ+ advocates Shane Jordan and Rick Hendrix take young readers on a colorful journey of self-expression and acceptance. Set at a stormy pride parade, the story follows a child who is free to express their gender identity, celebrating with their father. But when they come across a non-binary child who doesn’t feel comfortable in their own skin, they lend a helping hand and show them that they are seen, accepted, and loved.
Gentle storytelling and stunning illustrations play on the magical experience of finding one’s community. Featuring expert back matter, The Rainbow Parade encourages children and gatekeepers to break down stereotypes and embrace diversity. This book offers a timely and important lesson on the power of love, friendship, and acceptance.
Perfect for children of all identities, The Rainbow Parade is a must-have addition to any bookshelf. Let your own rainbow shine with this wonderful story of celebrating who you are and accepting others for who they are.
THE VANQUISHERS
Book 1 https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/vanquishers-9781547612710/
Book 2 https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/vanquishers-secret-of-the-reaping-9781547611577/
In the world of the Vanquishers, vampires were history . . . until now.
“A sharp vampire tale full of bite, heart, and humor.”–Rena Barron, author of the Maya and the Rising Dark series.
Inspired by Buffy the Vampire Slayer and The Watchmen, this adventure launches readers into an exciting new series.
Malika “Boog” Wilson and her best friends have grown up idolizing The Vanquishers, a group of heroic vampire hunters who wiped out the last horde of the undead decades ago. Nowadays, most people don’t take even the most basic vampire precautions–the days of garlic wreaths and early curfews long gone–but Boog’s parents still follow the old rules, much to her embarrassment.
When a friend goes missing, Boog isn’t sure what to think. Could it be the school counselor, Mr. Rupert, who definitely seems to be hiding something? Or could it be something more dangerous? Boog is determined to save her friend, but is she ready to admit vampires might not be vanquished after all?
No one ever expected the Vanquishers to return, but if their town needs protection from the undead, Boog knows who to call.