An expansive, affirming look at gender identity explores identities across the spectrum as it introduces various children. Ruthie is a transgender girl; her brother Xavier, a cisgender boy; Alex is both a boy and a girl; and JJ is neither. Straightforward language explains that when a child is born, people can only guess what their gender is based on how their body looks. Sometimes they are correct, and sometimes they’re not—either way, it’s okay to tell people your gender, and to be proud of who you are. There are many different ways to be a boy, a girl, or non-binary. There may be a word for your gender identity, but there may not be. Your identity may change or stay the same over time, or you might still be figuring it out. But most importantly, “you are okay exactly the way you are.” A list of helpful terms and their definitions, additional resources, and an explanation of pronouns round out a book that embraces children of all genders, no matter where they are on their journeys. (Ages 3–9)

Some people are boys. Some people are girls. Some people are both, neither, or somewhere in between.

This sweet, straightforward exploration of gender identity will give children a fuller understanding of themselves and others. With child-friendly language and vibrant art, It Feels Good to Be Yourself provides young readers and parents alike with the vocabulary to discuss this important topic with sensitivity.