Summary

It’s a warm June day, and a very colorful parade is about to start! It’s a Pride parade, and everyone comes together to celebrate who they are. This Day In June includes end notes explaining the origination of Pride Parades and the meaning of the phrases used on each page. Included as well is a discussion suggestion/guide on how to talk with kids ranging in ages 3-18 about LBGTQ questions they may have.

Impressions

First of all I love that this book covers a topic that can be controversial in a very simple, beautiful way. There are only two short sentences on each page, and each one has specific meaning as explained in the notes in the back of the book. I love the artwork as well. There is a lot going on in the background, signs, celebrations, but they are done only in colored outlines so it doesn’t draw attention from the main attraction- the parade. The middle pages tend to have one overall color identifying with one particular aspect- or issue- of the LBGTQ community, pink, blue and red are the most noticeable. This Day In June is a wonderful introduction for younger children to the idea of diversity and acceptance.

Further Information

This Day In June is a Stonewall Book Award Winner and while it is written for younger kids, I think people of all ages can enjoy it and the message it provides. This would be a wonderful book to include in a concept section and/or on a diversity display.

If you liked This Day in June by Gayle E. Pitman you may also enjoy And Tango Makes Three by Justin Richardson, Not Every Princess by Jeffrey Bone, Lisa Bone and Valeria Docampo, and Mommy, Mama, and Me by Leslea Newman.

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