Jacob's Room to Choose

Their teacher's lesson shows that there are more than two ways to dress--not all boys wear short hair, and not all girls wear long hair or dresses. Even their own classroom represents a spectrum of expressions.

In this follow-up to Jacob's New Dress, both the titular character, who wears a dress, and his friend Sophie, clad in a button-up plaid shirt and slacks, know which bathroom feels right. But Jacob is stared at in the boys' bathroom, and Sophie has a similar experience in the girls' room. Compassionate teacher Ms. Reeves is an ally; pointing to symbols representing a girl and a boy, she gently speaks to the whole class: "You know what? A lot of you don't look like the signs." The students set out to create new, inclusive bathroom signs: "I have to pee, so let me be!" one reads. Ms. Reeves just might be the real star in the story, as she models how limiting traditional views of gender can be. Case's smudgy artwork shows the familiar trappings of a cozy library and the energy of an impromptu art project. In an authors' note, the Hoffmans share their firsthand experience with their gender-nonconforming son. Ages 5-8. (May)

Copyright 2019 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

PreS-Gr 2-In this follow-up to Jacob's New Dress, Jacob and Sophie try to use the bathroom at school but do not feel safe. Jacob, a boy who wears dresses, is threatened by several kids in the boy's restroom, while Sophie, a girl who dresses in a plaid button down and khakis, is chased out of the girl's restroom. When they explain what happened to their teacher, the woman gathers their class for a lesson: not everyone looks like the bathroom signs for girls and boys, but everyone has to pee! The class takes a little time to consider, but are ultimately inspired. As a group, they make signs affirming everyone's right to use the bathroom without fear. There is no opposition from the school or parents--everyone is completely supportive. An author's note explains the importance of making bathrooms safe for gender nonconforming youth. Case's bright watercolor illustrations show a diverse and engaged classroom, and reinforce the emotional journey of the text. The text, though simple, clearly makes the case for making bathrooms safe for everyone, modeling a simple discussion on the topic for teachers or parents. VERDICT A solid picture book that addresses identity, gender expression, and how to be a good ally. Recommended for purchase.-Kelsey Socha, Ventress Memorial Library, Marshfield, MA

Copyright 2019 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

2020 ALA Rainbow Book List Selection

2020 NCSS/CBC Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People Selection

Finalist in the 2019 Foreword INDIES Awards

Recommended by Psychology Today

So many, many people need to read this book. Kids adults, politicians, administrators—there is not one person in this world that doesn't need to digest and ponder the less of this sweet, simple, and very necessary (unfortunately) book. — Kiss the Book 

Like the first book about Jacob, the message is about acceptance. Simple lyrical writing introduces the setting and the characters from the opening lines: 'The carpet was warm. The bunnies were funny. Jacob and Sophie loved library time.' And the message is vital, especially for this young age group. The Hoffman's book comes from their hearts. —Oregon Coast Youth Book Preview Center 

Kids need the tools to understand gender nonconforming peers. With books like this, minds open, perspectives blossom and everyone has more choices. Sophie and Jacob's teacher is paying attention and sees an opportunity to create a more inclusive classroom and school where everyone's differences are celebrated. A progressive book that is forward thinking and acting to solve problems with new solutions. — Jesica Sweedler DeHart, Librarian and Influencer, @WanderingBookseller 

This book is a necessary and well-crafted addition to the growing world of LGBTQ+ themed picture books. — Adrien Kade Sdao