The Times Australia
The Times World News

.

5 unmissable Australian queer picture books

  • Written by Helen Caple, Associate Professor in Communications and Journalism, UNSW Sydney
5 unmissable Australian queer picture books

Queer parents and their children rarely see families like theirs in books for early and pre-readers.

In 2021, the Children’s Book Council of Australia shortlisted[1] a queer picture book in its Early Childhood Award for the first time[2]: Who’s Your Real Mum?[3] by Bernadette Green and Anna Zobel.

Awards like this have a huge influence on sales, readership, and the books that are taught in schools. The teachers’ notes and classroom activities provided for most shortlisted books are added incentives for early childhood and primary school educators to adopt these books.

This landmark shortlisting inspired us to look for more titles that engage deeply with the diverse communities that make up Australian society, including queer families. We enlisted the help of the State Library of NSW, inviting library staff across NSW to share diverse books from their collections.

We’ve selected five unmissable reads that centre on queer stories from the resulting Diverse Picture Books list[4], now live online.

Read more: Queer young adult fiction isn't all gloomy realism. Here are 5 uplifting books to get you started[5]

Bias learned from an early age

Queer representation in fiction[6] can provide education, validation and affirmation to young people. It also helps to normalise queerness.

Because bias is learned from a very early age, it’s important for early and pre-readers to access the stories and experiences of queer families, and to begin the work of overcoming those biases[7].

Books about queer families provide a window into that experience for those outside it, promoting wider acceptance, understanding or celebration of such families. They also hold up a mirror for the many children living in such families, giving them the opportunity to see their lives reflected in the literature they read.

So, whether you are looking through a window or holding up a mirror, here are five picture books about family, identity and the queer experience:

1. Who’s Your Real Mum?[8] written by Bernadette Green, illustrated by Anna Zobel

This picture book challenges the stereotypes of what makes a family. It addresses a common question that same-sex parents and their children inevitably face: Who’s your real mum? Elvi has two mums and her curious friend Nicholas constantly asks which mum is the “real” one. As Nicholas persists, Elvi comes up with increasingly outlandish, imaginative responses. Ultimately, Elvi teaches Nicholas the beautiful lesson that the role of a parent is far more than just biology. 2. Wrestle[9] by Maya Newell, Charlotte Mars, Gus Skattebol-James, illustrated by Tom Jellett
Inspired by the award-winning documentary, Gayby Baby[10], Wrestle is a story of queer family, identity and challenging stereotypes. It explores the broad spectrum of “maleness” through main character Gus’s obsession with wrestling. Gus ultimately arrives at the realisation that there is more than one way to be a boy and most definitely more than one way to be a wrestler. This book is also a must-read for any family wanting to learn more about the Sydney Mardi Gras[11]. My Shadow is Pink draws on the author-illustrator’s life, and his relationship with his son, to challenge gender stereotypes. The book tells the story of a young boy whose pink shadow is different to his dad’s blue shadow. The boy loves ponies, princesses, and putting on dresses, and while he is initially embarrassed about this, his father helps him to overcome this and to just be himself. Written in verse, this book explores toxic masculinity, gender identity, fatherhood, diversity, childhood bullying and self-expression. Its message is clear: positive parenting through loving and accepting your kids for who they are can make all the difference. My Shadow is Pink is also an animated short film[12]. Drawing on everyday activities, from reading and bathing, to finding lost toys, this colourful board book for the very young celebrates family life in all of its diversity. It provides a great opportunity for carers and educators to discuss ideas about family and relationships. The message is simple: love sits at the centre of every family, regardless of its shapes and forms. Errol and his teddy bear Thomas love playing together, but one day Errol realises that Thomas is very unhappy. After Errol ensures that Thomas feels safe to share his worries with him, Thomas confesses that he is a girl teddy and wants to be called Tilly. And Errol is fine with this. This picture book about a trans teddy bear is great for introducing young minds to the concepts of gender identity and transition. The book deals with a complex topic sensitively and simply. So, as Tilly the teddy emerges from Thomas the Teddy, she is surrounded by the acceptance and love that every child needs and deserves. References^ shortlisted (cbca.org.au)^ for the first time (link.springer.com)^ Who’s Your Real Mum? (www.scribblekidsbooks.com)^ the resulting Diverse Picture Books list (www.sl.nsw.gov.au)^ Queer young adult fiction isn't all gloomy realism. Here are 5 uplifting books to get you started (theconversation.com)^ Queer representation in fiction (theconversation.com)^ overcoming those biases (theconversation.com)^ Who’s Your Real Mum? (www.scribblekidsbooks.com)^ Wrestle (www.allenandunwin.com)^ Gayby Baby (thegaybyproject.com)^ Sydney Mardi Gras (theconversation.com)^ animated short film (www.youtube.com)

Read more https://theconversation.com/overcoming-bias-in-the-next-generation-5-unmissable-australian-queer-picture-books-178642

Times Magazine

Headless CMS in Digital Twins and 3D Product Experiences

Image by freepik As the metaverse becomes more advanced and accessible, it's clear that multiple sectors will use digital twins and 3D product experiences to visualize, connect, and streamline efforts better. A digital twin is a virtual replica of ...

The Decline of Hyper-Casual: How Mid-Core Mobile Games Took Over in 2025

In recent years, the mobile gaming landscape has undergone a significant transformation, with mid-core mobile games emerging as the dominant force in app stores by 2025. This shift is underpinned by changing user habits and evolving monetization tr...

Understanding ITIL 4 and PRINCE2 Project Management Synergy

Key Highlights ITIL 4 focuses on IT service management, emphasising continual improvement and value creation through modern digital transformation approaches. PRINCE2 project management supports systematic planning and execution of projects wit...

What AI Adoption Means for the Future of Workplace Risk Management

Image by freepik As industrial operations become more complex and fast-paced, the risks faced by workers and employers alike continue to grow. Traditional safety models—reliant on manual oversight, reactive investigations, and standardised checklist...

From Beach Bops to Alpine Anthems: Your Sonos Survival Guide for a Long Weekend Escape

Alright, fellow adventurers and relaxation enthusiasts! So, you've packed your bags, charged your devices, and mentally prepared for that glorious King's Birthday long weekend. But hold on, are you really ready? Because a true long weekend warrior kn...

Effective Commercial Pest Control Solutions for a Safer Workplace

Keeping a workplace clean, safe, and free from pests is essential for maintaining productivity, protecting employee health, and upholding a company's reputation. Pests pose health risks, can cause structural damage, and can lead to serious legal an...

The Times Features

The Role of Your GP in Creating a Chronic Disease Management Plan That Works

Living with a long-term condition, whether that is diabetes, asthma, arthritis or heart disease, means making hundreds of small decisions every day. You plan your diet against m...

Troubleshooting Flickering Lights: A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners

Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik Effectively addressing flickering lights in your home is more than just a matter of convenience; it's a pivotal aspect of both home safety and en...

My shins hurt after running. Could it be shin splints?

If you’ve started running for the first time, started again after a break, or your workout is more intense, you might have felt it. A dull, nagging ache down your shins after...

Metal Roof Replacement Cost Per Square Metre in 2025: A Comprehensive Guide for Australian Homeowners

In recent years, the trend of installing metal roofs has surged across Australia. With their reputation for being both robust and visually appealing, it's easy to understand thei...

Why You’re Always Adjusting Your Bra — and What to Do Instead

Image by freepik It starts with a gentle tug, then a subtle shift, and before you know it, you're adjusting your bra again — in the middle of work, at dinner, even on the couch. I...

How to Tell If Your Eyes Are Working Harder Than They Should Be

Image by freepik Most of us take our vision for granted—until it starts to let us down. Whether it's squinting at your phone, rubbing your eyes at the end of the day, or feeling ...