The Boy in the Dress

A parent might reach for this book when their child feels like an outsider or is hiding a creative passion because of social pressure to fit in. This story follows Dennis, a boy who loves soccer but feels a deep, secret longing for the world of fashion and design. Living in a strict household where hugging is banned and his father struggles with depression, Dennis finds comfort in the colorful pages of Vogue. When he decides to express his true self by wearing a dress to school, he faces the harsh reality of social judgment and school rules. It is a warm, funny, and deeply empathetic exploration of identity, friendship, and the courage it takes to be oneself in a world that demands conformity. Recommended for ages 8 to 12, it provides a safe space to discuss gender expression and the importance of supporting friends for who they truly are.