Diversity in Literature
The Best Man by Richard Peck
Synopsis
The Best Man by Richard Peck is a coming of age story about Archer Magill. The story begins with Archer as a ring bearer in the wedding of a family friend, and while he is mortified when his pants split the story is really about what comes after. Archer looks up to three important men as role models throughout his life. His uncle, his father, and his grandfather help him navigate the ups and downs of life including friendship, bullies, and loss. In sixth grade Archer gets a student teacher. Mr. McLeod is the fist male teacher he's ever had and quickly becomes another role model in his life. Archer is asked to be the best man in a the second wedding that book ends the story, one between two of his role models.
For more in this theme, check out these five related titles!
George by Alex Gino
George is a ten year old boy, but in her heart knows she is a girl. Her fourth grade class is putting on a production of Charlotte’s Web, and she wants to play Charlotte, but convincing her teachers and classmates is another matter. This is an insightful story of a transgender child coming to terms with her gender identity.
Gracefully Grayson by Ami Polonski
Grayson is a boy has to suppress who she knows she is due to fear of rejection from her family and classmates. She daydreams of princesses and castles, wearing twirly skirts and long gowns instead of of track pants. When Grayson is cast as Persephone in the school play she finds acceptance among the cast members.
My Mixed-Up Berry Blue Summer by Jennifer Gennari
June is a normal 12 year old who thinks about swimming, picking wild blueberries, and winning the Champlain Valley Fair pie competition. When her neighbors begin protesting her mother’s civil union to Eva, June finds herself drawn into the controversy. In addition to defending her family, June finds herself working through the question of her own sexual orientation.
The Misadventures of the Family Fletcher by Dana Alison Levy
This is a heartfelt story about a blended family with two dads. Each of the four boys is adopted and all of them have their own unique personalities and interests. Their lives may seem hectic, but at the end of the day what's most important is that it doesn't matter what your family looks like as long as you stick together.
The Lotterys Plus One
Sumac Lottery is part of an eleven member blended family, with two moms and two dads. When a grandfather, “Grumps”, comes to live with the already crowded family, its sensitive Sumac who is most affected. Even though the family is unconventional, the message of love in this story is very real.
If you want to learn more about the LGBT community check out the links below!
What’s Gay Marriage?
https://kidshealth.org/en/kids/qa-gaymarriage.html
Queer Kid Stuff
http://queerkidstuff.com/videos
The Genderbread Person
Sez Me
GLBT Facts for Teens
https://youtu.be/o873VpmP9Sg