Overview

""Perfect for any member of the LGBTQ+ spectrum as well as young allies who would like to learn more about their LGBTQ+ friends and classmates."" —Booklist (starred review) A joyous picture book from an exciting debut author touches on gender identity in a warmhearted celebration of individuality. In a “castle” on the hill lives a happy family: the king, the queen, and their child, Pete. Pete likes a lot of different things: wearing red trousers or flowery dresses, experimenting with makeup, and going outside in the mud. Playing sports, drawing pictures, and making music; running races and dressing up; playing with the boys and playing with the girls—Pete’s days are filled with laughter, creativity, and friendship. Some people are confused and ask, “Are you a girl or a boy?” But Pete is just Pete, and they are loved just as they are. A story of acceptance and childhood joy, energetically illustrated with colorful scenes and whimsical details, Princess Pete stands alongside titles such as Julián Is a Mermaid as it encourages readers to be wholly themselves.

Full Product Details

9781536247657

Table of Contents

Reviews

Glowing, graphical artwork gives the feeling of the joy of childhood exploration as well as the warmth of acceptance. This is a good book to have for kids who are exploring their own identities or to help children understand those who are. —School Library Journal Without using specific terms, Allen explores gender identity in a developmentally appropriate way. . . . Allen’s narration is authentically childlike, pairing well with Sanna’s illustrations, which heavily incorporate geometric shapes and trans flag colors. . . . Affirming and fun. —Kirkus Reviews

Glowing, graphical artwork gives the feeling of the joy of childhood exploration as well as the warmth of acceptance. This is a good book to have for kids who are exploring their own identities or to help children understand those who are. —School Library Journal Without using specific terms, Allen explores gender identity in a developmentally appropriate way. . . . Allen’s narration is authentically childlike, pairing well with Sanna’s illustrations, which heavily incorporate geometric shapes and trans flag colors. . . . Affirming and fun. —Kirkus Reviews [A] gentle deconstruction of gendered stereotypes, made approachable through the voice of childhood wonder. The digital illustrations are bright and bold, with eye-catching patterns and notable inclusivity of trans and LGBTQ+ banners and color schemes throughout. . . . This story is more than just a celebration of gender identity; it is a celebration of living authentically. —Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

Glowing, graphical artwork gives the feeling of the joy of childhood exploration as well as the warmth of acceptance. This is a good book to have for kids who are exploring their own identities or to help children understand those who are. —School Library Journal Without using specific terms, Allen explores gender identity in a developmentally appropriate way. . . . Allen’s narration is authentically childlike, pairing well with Sanna’s illustrations, which heavily incorporate geometric shapes and trans flag colors. . . . Affirming and fun. —Kirkus Reviews [A] gentle deconstruction of gendered stereotypes, made approachable through the voice of childhood wonder. The digital illustrations are bright and bold, with eye-catching patterns and notable inclusivity of trans and LGBTQ+ banners and color schemes throughout. . . . This story is more than just a celebration of gender identity; it is a celebration of living authentically. —Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books May 2026. 32p. Candlewick, $18.99 (9781536247657). PreS–Gr. 2 Perfect for any member of the LGBTQ+ spectrum as well as young allies who would like to learn more about their LGBTQ+ friends and classmates, Allen’s book centers trans and queer joy, self-love, and uniqueness. The author’s message is complemented by the vibrant, energetic illustrations of Sanna that evoke happiness and comfort. —Booklist (starred review)

Author Information

Zoey Allen is a transgender woman with a penchant for creating diverse stories. She is also a passionate singer-songwriter and jewelry maker. Zoey Allen is based in Cardiff, Wales. Frenci Sanna is an illustrator and author whose debut picture book, The Journey, received an Amnesty CILIP Honor and an Ezra Jack Keats Writer Honor and was short-listed for the Kate Greenaway Medal and the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize. Originally from Sardinia, Frenci Sanna lives in Switzerland.

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