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Except When They Don't

Illustrated by Joshua Heinsz
Published by little bee books
Distributed by Simon & Schuster
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About The Book

"This book encourages kids to practice self-acceptance and embrace all kinds of play in a lighthearted and cheerful way." --School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW

This rhyming picture book encourages children to celebrate their individuality and lets them know that it's okay to play with whatever toys they want to!

Girls perform to fairy songs.
Boys play football all day long.

Boys yell, "Boo!" and run away.
Girls like kittens and ballet.

Except when they don't.

Children are often told by many different people about what toys they're supposed to play with, what interests they should have, and who they should be simply because of their gender. This stereotype-breaking book invites children to examine what they're told "boy" and "girl" activities are and encourages them to play with whatever they want to and to be exactly who they are! This book is published in partnership with GLAAD to accelerate LGBTQ inclusivity and acceptance.

About The Author

About The Illustrator

Product Details

  • Publisher: little bee books (May 21, 2019)
  • Length: 32 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781499808049
  • Ages: 4 - 8

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Raves and Reviews

This book encourages kids to practice self-acceptance and embrace all kinds of play in a lighthearted and cheerful way.

– School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW

Gehl's text and Heinsz's artwork express the joy of individuality and personal choice: "be exactly who you are."

– Publishers Weekly

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More books from this author: Laura Gehl

More books from this illustrator: Joshua Heinsz

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