It’s Pride, Baby!

PreS-Gr 1–A young child’s queer dads encourage them to be unapologetically whoever and whatever they want. On the day of the Black Pride parade in Washington, DC, a child awakens joyfully knowing it’s a big day. This may be the first such parade for the ungendered child, who is both excited and curious at the same time. The picture book is bright, colorful, and reflective of modern times and many families. The illustrations progress seamlessly from scene to scene, making readers feel like they’re actually at the parade with this family. Wells’s story brings a community together to celebrate its uniqueness, individuality, and courage. Readers see the central family among clusters of people excitedly traveling to the parade by subway and on foot; everyone is rejoicing in the moment. A use of diverse characters spans race, ability, and age. Several of the paraders have natural hair styles with braids, waves, and texture. The scenes make it easy for readers to find themselves in the event, whether queer or not. Throughout the big day, the dads affirm their child to stand up for what they believe. This sense of affirmation resonates throughout the story and a further sense of empowerment flows through the vibrant pages. The book also shines a light on the forerunners of the Black Pride experience. Illustrations of their faces along city murals make for a more powerful and historical story line.