Jack (Not Jackie)

K-Gr 3--Susan thinks that her new little sister, Jackie, has the best giggle and such big, beautiful eyes! She can't wait until Jackie grows up and they can wear frilly dresses and play princesses together. As Jackie gets older, Susan notices that Jackie hates all things "girly" and wants to play in mud, wear boy clothes, and be called "Jack." As Susan struggles to accept these traits in her sister, she is afraid and upset--natural reactions to what she doesn't understand. Susan's mom reminds her that Jackie--now Jack's--preferences are not wrong but "different," and whether Jack is a sister or brother, boy or girl, Susan sees that Jack still has the best giggle and big, beautiful eyes. Told in clear prose with no hint of sentimentality, this timely picture book addresses gender identity in a way that allows children to understand the differences on the outside while remembering what is on the inside is what counts. Vividly illustrated pages with astute details will capture the audience's attention and invite closer appreciation of their wordless support of the narration. The author includes a note in the back as well as an appendix of further resources, including books, articles, online resources, and picture books on the subject of children's gender identity. VERDICT A can't-miss addition to any collection that is looking to offer more inclusive resources.--Amanda C. Buschmann, Carroll Elementary School, Houston

Copyright 2018 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Silverman offers a perspective on gender dysphoria through the eyes of an older sister. Susan, whose tastes tend toward fairy wings, tutus, and unicorns, is disappointed that sibling Jackie prefers mud puddles and pants over sparkles and dresses. Susan and Jackie's mother supports Jackie from the get-go: "That's okay. She can wear whatever feels right." After getting a short haircut, Jackie announces, "I am a boy!" Susan mourns the sister she thought she had--and then realizes that whether Jack or Jackie, she can love her sibling for who they are. Hatam illustrates in warm collages filled with playfully mismatched, cheerful patterns. While the book seems to portray gender as binary, an author's note provides a more inclusive perspective. An empathic depiction of how unconditional love sometimes means tweaking expectations. Ages 4-8. (Oct.)

Copyright 2018 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

This is arguably the only male transgender story for younger children and important accordingly. Silverman handles her sensitive material extremely well, with a light, non-didactic touch. The spirit of the story is nicely augmented by Hatam's sprightly cartoon illustrations. A helpful appended author's note offers context for the story, which belongs in every library.— "Booklist, STARRED REVIEW"