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http://mppl.org/services/youth-department/good-books/?list=LGBTQ+History&category=current+events

List: LGBTQ History


A photo of A song for the unsung : Bayard Rustin, the man behind the 1963 March on Washington

A song for the unsung : Bayard Rustin, the man behind the 1963 March on Washington

"Although he started out as a teacher without aspirations to be an activist or politician, Harvey Milk found himself captivated by the history-making movements of the 1960s. He would eventually make history of his own by becoming the first openly gay elected politician in California. While in office, Harvey Milk advocated for equal rights for the gay community. Even though his life and career were cut short, Harvey is still seen by many as one of the most famous and most significantly open LGBT officials ever elected in the United States. His life and legacy continue to inspire and unite the community"--

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A photo of Be amazing : a history of pride

Be amazing : a history of pride

How did a spontaneous protest outside of a New York City bar fifty years ago spark a social movement across America? Find out about the history of LGBTQ rights in this Who HQ title.

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A photo of Change

Change

Two wedding cake toppers tell the love story of the men they represent, Michael McConnell and Jake Baker, and their difficult journey to become the first married gay couple in the United States.

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A photo of Code-breaker and mathematician Alan Turing

Code-breaker and mathematician Alan Turing

"Three teenagers--Natalia, Jax, and Rashad--are magically transported from their modern lives to the legendary Stonewall Inn in the summer of 1969. Escorted by Natalia's eccentric abuela (and her pet cockatiel, Rocky), the friends experience the police raid firsthand and are thrown into the infamous riots that made the struggle for LGBTQ rights front-page news"--

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A photo of Door by door : how Sarah McBride became America's first openly transgender senator

Door by door : how Sarah McBride became America's first openly transgender senator

"This book is about the Stonewall Riots, a series of spontaneous, often violent demonstrations by members of the gay (LGBTQ+) community in reaction to a police raid that took place in the early morning hours of June 28, 1969, at the Stonewall Inn in the Greenwich Village neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City. The Riots are attributed as the spark that ignited the LGBTQ+ Movement. The author describes American gay history leading up to the Riots, the Riots themselves, and the aftermath, and includes her interviews of people involved or witnesses, including a woman who was ten at the time. Profusely illustrated, the book includes contemporary photos, newspaper clippings among other period objects. A timely and necessary read, The Stonewall Riots helps readers to understand the history and legacy of the LGBTQ+ movement"--

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A photo of If you're a kid like Gavin

If you're a kid like Gavin

Learn about the key people and events that have paved the way for the modern gay rights movement and how members from the LGBTQ+ community have joined the cause to advocate for equal rights.

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A photo of Jazz Jennings : voice for LGBTQ youth

Jazz Jennings : voice for LGBTQ youth

"By the time she arrived in Belvidere, Illinois, and started working as a farmhand, Jennie had a new name and a new identity . . . Albert D. J. Cashier. In 1861, the winds of war blew through the United States. Jennie Hodgers, a young immigrant from Ireland, moved west to Illinois and soon had a new name and a new identity--Albert D. J. Cashier. Like many other young men, Albert joined the Union Army. Though the smallest soldier in his company, Albert served for nearly three years and fought in forty battles and skirmishes. When the war ended, Albert continued to live his life as a man. His identity fit him as snug as his suspenders. Decades later, a reporter caught wind of the news that an old man in the Soldiers' and Sailors' Home was actually a woman. The news swept through the country. What would happen to Albert and his military pension? Would he be allowed to continue to live as he wished? How would his friends, fellow soldiers, and others in the community react? This book is published in partnership with GLAAD to accelerate LGBTQ inclusivity and acceptance."--

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A photo of Kind like Marsha : learning from LGBTQ+ leaders

Kind like Marsha : learning from LGBTQ+ leaders

Sometimes being who you are can be a hard thing to do. Learn about people from across the LGBTQIA+ community who celebrate who they are and never stop fighting for what they believe in. No matter who you are, inside or out, this book is here to teach you that you can be proud of who you are.

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A photo of Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox

"Relates the story of transgender Latina Sylvia Rivera, an influential gay liberation and transgender rights activist who fought especially for transgender people of color and, with Marsha P. Johnson, founded the Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR), a group devoted to providing services and advocacy for homeless LGBTQ+ people"--

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A photo of LGBTQ human rights movement

LGBTQ human rights movement

"Meet Stonewall uprising veteran Sylvia Rivera--once just a kid from New York City. A transgender Latina, Sylvia became an influential gay liberation and transgender rights activist who fought especially for transgender people of color. In the 1970s, Sylvia and Marsha P. Johnson founded the Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR), a group devoted to providing services and advocacy for homeless LGBTQ+ people. Nearly two decades after her passing, Sylvia and her legacy continue to have an impact on the LGBTQ+ rights movement and remain an inspiration for marginalized queer people everywhere."--

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A photo of LGBTQ+ icons : a celebration of historical LGBTQ+ icons in the arts

LGBTQ+ icons : a celebration of historical LGBTQ+ icons in the arts

"'Someday girls like us will be able to wear whatever we want. People will call us by the names we choose. They'll respect that we are women. The cops will leave us alone and no one will go hungry." Sylvia and Marsha are closer than sisters. They are kind and brave and not afraid to speak their truth, even when it makes other people angry. This illustrated book introduces children to the story of Sylvia Rivera and Marsha P. Johnson, the two transgender women of colour who helped kickstart the Stonewall Riots and dedicated their lives to fighting for LGBTQ+ equality. It introduces children to issues surrounding gender identity and diversity, accompanied by a reading guide and teaching materials to further the conversation"--

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A photo of LGBTQ+ rights

LGBTQ+ rights

This fictional biography follows Rob Kearney as he grows from a strong teen to a professional strongman and finds the courage to wear rainbows to the North American championship. Includes author's note.

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A photo of One life

One life

"Sometimes being who you are can be a hard thing to do. Learn about people from across the LGBTQIA+ community who celebrate who they are and never stop fighting for what they believe in. No matter who you are, inside or out, this book is here to teach you that you can be proud of who you are. Let's break down some barriers! It's time to have pride in STEM!" --

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A photo of Our subway baby

Our subway baby

"Sometimes being who you are can be a hard thing to do. Learn about people from across the LGBTQIA+ community who celebrate who they are and never stop fighting for what they believe in. No matter who you are, inside or out, this book is here to show you that you can be proud of who you are. Wear your colours proud! It's time to have pride in sports!" -- Back cover.

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A photo of People of pride : 25 great LGBTQ Americans

People of pride : 25 great LGBTQ Americans

This inspiring picture book autobiography tells the remarkable story of Sharice Davids, one of the first Native American women elected to Congress and the first LGBTQ congressperson to represent Kansas.

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A photo of Pride : an inspirational history of the LGBTQ+ movement

Pride : an inspirational history of the LGBTQ+ movement

"Sewing the Rainbow is the powerful story of Gilbert Baker and the creation of the rainbow flag. This book takes readers from Gilbert's childhood in a small town in Kansas where he didn't fit in, to his historic artistic career in San Francisco. Today the flag is everywhere, even in the small town where Gilbert grew up! This book shows that when you see a rainbow flag, you'll know it's okay to be your colorful self. Includes a Note to Parents and Caregivers with more about Gilbert and the flag's history." --Publisher description.

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A photo of Pride : the story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag

Pride : the story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag

Rainbow Revolutionaries brings to life the vibrant histories of fifty pioneering LGBTQ+ people from around the world. Through Sarah Prager's (Queer, There, and Everywhere) short, engaging bios, and Sarah Papworth's bold, dynamic art, readers can delve into the lives of Wen of Han, a Chinese emperor who loved his boyfriend as much as his people, Martine Rothblatt, a trans woman who's helping engineer the robots of tomorrow, and so many more!

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A photo of Queer heroes

Queer heroes

"As the first openly transgender government official to hold an office that requires Senate confirmation, the first openly transgender four-star officer in uniform service, and the first female four-star admiral in the commissioned corps, Rachel Levine faced many obstacles throughout her life. But she persisted through them all and showed kids of all genders that they can succeed in their dreams too"--

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A photo of Rachel Levine

Rachel Levine

Profiles notable LGBTQ figures and highlights their contributions to society and their community, including Martina Navratilova, Frida Kahlo, Alan Turing, David Bowie, and K.D. Lang.

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A photo of Sewing the rainbow : the story of Gilbert Baker and the rainbow flag

Sewing the rainbow : the story of Gilbert Baker and the rainbow flag

"The LGBTQ+ community is so much more than rainbow flags and the month of June. In this beautifully designed dynamic book, young readers will learn about groundbreaking events, including historic pushes for equality and the legalization of same-sex marriages across the world. They will dive into the phenomenal history of queer icons from ancient times to the present and read about Harvey Milk, Marsha P. Johnson, Audre Lorde, and more. Including several personal current essays from inspiring young LGBTQ+ people, this book encourages readers to take pride in their identity and the identities of those around them. Don't just learn about LGBTQ+ history--take pride in it!"--

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A photo of Sharice's big voice : a native kid becomes a congresswoman

Sharice's big voice : a native kid becomes a congresswoman

"What do Frank Ocean, Sally Ride, George Takei, and Sharice Davids all have in common? They're all proud LGBTQ Americans! Featuring people from a variety of occupations and backgrounds, this collection of 25 short biographies demonstrates the diversity, accomplishments, and pride within the American LGBTQ community."--

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A photo of Sports

Sports

"Adapted for young readers! Join Olympic gold medalist, two-time Women's World Cup champion, and trailblazing activist Megan Rapinoe in the fight for equality and justice in this middle grade adaptation of her New York Times bestselling memoir, One Life"--

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A photo of STEM

STEM

"A picture book biography of Pete Buttigieg, mayor of South Bend, Indiana, and 2020 presidential election hopeful."--

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A photo of Stonewall : a building, an uprising, a revolution

Stonewall : a building, an uprising, a revolution

"Learn all about LGBTQ+ activism, from gender-neutral bathrooms to legalizing same-sex marriage. Get a global look at the history of the movement, meet the activists involved, and celebrate some of the legal victories! Each chapters end with a call to action, so kids can feel inspired to get involved in their own communities. This high-interest book is written at a lower reading level for struggling readers. Considerate text and engaging art and photographs are sure to grab even the most reluctant readers. Series includes a table of contents, sidebars, bibliography, glossary, index, and author biography"--

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A photo of Strong

Strong

"From music to movies, literature to dance - the arts have always been influenced by the work of LGBTQ people. LGBTQ+ Icons spotlights the history and contributions of 50 pioneering artists who lived and worked around the world. Bold, whimsical illustrations by David Lee Csicsko (The Skin You Live In) and concise bios from historian Owen Keehnen celebrate a diverse group of artists, from LGBTQ icons James Baldwin, Frida Kahlo, and Freddie Mercury to lesser-known colorful characters like vaudeville performer Ada "Bricktop" Smith, the toast of 1920s Paris café society who opened a queer-friendly club where all were welcomed, and Australian dandy Leigh Bowery, whose unapologetic flamboyance influenced an entire generation of fashion designers. LGBTQ+ Icons is an entertaining exploration of a part of history most people don't know is even missing. It will inspire readers young and old to be confident in who they are, and to take pride in their own creativity. Produced with premium materials, this book is a must-read for Pride month and a perfect collectible year-round!"--Amazon.

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A photo of Sylvia Rivera

Sylvia Rivera

"Even though the world treated her like a boy, little Laverne knew that she was a girl. She didn't fit in at school, but performing on stage made her feel like her true self. After moving to New York City, she began living her life how she wanted to. She started an acting career that would see her win countless awards and the hearts of people all over the world." -- Back cover.

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A photo of Sylvia Rivera

Sylvia Rivera

"A nonfiction book for kids profiling 14 influential and inspiring leaders in the LGBTQ+ community throughout history and the world with an author's note at the back"--

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A photo of The arts

The arts

"A groundbreaking advocate for transgender youth and LGBTQ rights, Jazz Jennings is one of the first youth to speak publicly about her experiences as a transgender individual. A spokesperson, writer, and public figure, Jazz inspires all people to embrace themselves and be accepting of all people. Overcoming incredible struggles as a young transgender person, Jazz now uses her platform to make a difference in the LGBTQ community. A vocal advocate for equal rights, she co-founded the TransKids Purple Rainbow Foundation-all before the age of 15."--

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A photo of The gay rights movement

The gay rights movement

In 1969, when thirteen-year-old transgender runaway Flor and her new trans friend Tami try to make their way into the queer and trans community of New York City, they find themselves at the Stonewall Inn on a night that leads to a police raid and violence.

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A photo of The Harvey Milk story

The Harvey Milk story

"An illustrated memoir of a twelve-year-old boy's experience growing up transgender and how his family supports him"--

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A photo of The Stonewall riots : making a stand for LGBTQ rights

The Stonewall riots : making a stand for LGBTQ rights

"Sometimes being who you are can be a hard thing to do. Learn about people from across the LGBTQIA+ community who celebrate who they are and never stop fighting for what they believe in. No matter who you are, inside or out, this book is here to show you that you can be proud of who you are. Be proud to stand up and speak out! It's time to have pride in change!"--Back cover.

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A photo of Were I not a girl : the inspiring and true story of Dr. James Barry

Were I not a girl : the inspiring and true story of Dr. James Barry

Desmond is Amazing is a drag-kid, model, fashion icon, and social justice activist. When he isn't slaying on the catwalk or performing drag, he's an outspoken anti-bullying and LGBTQ advocate. In this uplifting picture book about being yourself, Desmond shows how he can be amazing thanks to courageous people like Marsha P. Johnson, Sylvia Rivera, and RuPaul who paved the way for a safer, more inclusive society for LGBTQ individuals. A kid-friendly primer to LGBTQ history that covers everything from the Stonewall Riots to RuPaul's Drag Race, Be Amazing shows young readers why we should celebrate the fight for LGBTQ rights.

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A photo of What was Stonewall?

What was Stonewall?

"On August 28, 1963, a quarter of a million activists and demonstrators from every corner of the United States convened for the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. It was there that they raised their voices in unison to call for racial and economic justice for all Black Americans, to call out inequities, and ultimately to advance the Civil Rights Movement. Every movement has its unsung heroes: individuals who work in the background without praise or accolades, who toil and struggle without notice. One of those unsung heroes was at the center of some of the most important decisions and events of the Civil Rights Movement. That hero was a quiet man, a gay African American man. He was Bayard Rustin."--

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A photo of Who was Harvey Milk?

Who was Harvey Milk?

""Some babies are born into their families. Some are adopted. This is the story of how one baby found his family in the New York City subway." So begins the true story of Kevin and how he found his Daddy Danny and Papa Pete. Written in a direct address to his son, Pete's moving and emotional text tells how his partner, Danny, found a baby tucked away in the corner of a subway station on his way home from work one day. Pete and Danny ended up adopting the baby together. Although neither of them had prepared for the prospect of parenthood, they are reminded, "Where there is love, anything is possible."" -- Amazon.com

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