Tales from Beyond the Rainbow

A parent should reach for this book when their child is beginning to ask questions about their own identity or when they notice their child feeling like an outsider in traditional stories. It is a vital resource for children who may be questioning their gender or orientation, or for those who simply need to see that 'happily ever after' belongs to everyone. Pete Jordi Wood has curated and reimagined traditional folktales from around the globe, centering LGBTQ plus characters and themes that were often erased or coded in historical versions. The collection moves through diverse cultures and time periods, offering a sense of historical belonging that many queer youth feel they lack. While the stories deal with themes of overcoming prejudice and finding self-acceptance, the overall tone is celebratory and magical. It is an excellent choice for parents looking to normalize diverse identities through the familiar lens of mythology and wonder. Best suited for children in late elementary through middle school, it provides a safe space for conversation and a mirror for those who rarely see themselves in the pages of classic lore.