Description
SOLD OUT!
Thank you to everyone who has supported Avery over the years. We are so appreciative of the love shown to our family and to trans youth everywhere. You are a blessing in our lives, and we are proud to have shared a story of discovery, positivity, and joy with you.
“It’s Okay To Sparkle” is the inspirational story of 7-year-old Avery Jackson, told in her own words. Avery was assigned male at birth, but has now transitioned into a young girl. Her book tells the story of how she realized she was a girl and how she helped her parents and friends to understand her transition. This heart-warming story covers themes of friendship, bullying and self-esteem. Whether you’re into dolls, ninja warriors or teddy bears, climbing trees, tae kwon do or ballet, this book lets readers know that it’s okay to be who you want to be. Avery’s words are incredibly wise and articulate for such a young person and she will undoubtably provide support and inspiration to other families in similar situations.
The book is illustrated by Jessica Udischas, who offers her own perspective of life as a trans woman in her web comic Manic Pixie Nightmare Girls.
“It’s Okay To Sparkle” was selected for the 2018 Rainbow Book List created by American Library Association. The Rainbow Book List Committee evaluated 260 books highlighting stories with significant gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, or queer/questioning content. Avery is proud to have her story receive this honor.
Marlo Mack –
My daughter and I LOVE this book. I’ve never read a story (or even a big, fat book with 1,000 pages) that did a better job of summing up what it’s like to be a transgender kid. If you’re a parent, a teacher, a librarian, or anyone else who interacts with kids, I hope you’ll get your hands on this book. And it’s got a message that goes way beyond being transgender; it’s about all of us. We should ALL be so brave and so lucky to sparkle as brightly as Avery does.
Kim Knox (verified owner) –
My kids and I love this book! Well written and beautiful images. The writer, Avery Jackson, does an amazing job sharing what life is like being transgender and about being true to who you are. I bought a few copies to share! This is a great resource for teachers, counselors, and therapists to utilize as a resource.
Rachael (verified owner) –
Brilliant, it’s amazing to be able to read a story to my child that she can really identify with. Explains so simply for children to understand, hoping my child’s school will use it in class. So happy it could be sent to Scotland.
Kat (verified owner) –
I want to send a big kudos to Avery for sharing her story through this book. Although it is a kid’s book I think many adults could benefit from reading it and learning how it feels to be transgender. Thanks Avery for letting us into your thoughts! Much love! <3
Carolyn Collette Gray (verified owner) –
What a joy to read Avery’s story of herself. In honest, uncomplicated words — paired with delightfully wild illustrations! — she shows us what it means to sparkle indeed.
Her explanation of who she is, and how she’s flourished with her parents’ love and support, will bring a smile to anyone who’s ever been cast as a little bit “different.”
That’s the beauty of this glittering gem of a book. A loving lifeline for transgender kids, Avery’s story holds a lesson of truthfulness and trust, bravery and belief, for all children and all families everywhere and of every kind.
Edward Read (verified owner) –
It’s Okay to Sparkle is a refreshing view into the life of Avery Jackson, who was 7 years old when the story was written. Facing the challenges of being transgender in a society where too many don’t understand, from the eyes of a child helps to put it all into perspective. Facing them with the support of her parents, Avery shows us that in fact it is okay to sparkle!
A great way to explain to children about what it is like to be different and to foster empathy. Love it.
Jenna –
Wonderful book with great illustrations, too. Beautiful message and perfect for kids. Thanks, Avery!
Amy (verified owner) –
While this book was written by a transgender child the message is perfect for teaching empathy and understanding for anyone who is different. This story applies to so many different situations and my 7.5 year old loved the book.
Giselle (verified owner) –
I am a supportive mom of an adult transgender son, and I bought this book to help my 4 year old granddaughter understand what it means to be transgender. What a terrific purchase! The language, along with the beautiful illustrations, are simple and easy to understand, at any age. This book fosters inclusivity and demonstrates the power of love and family. I am going to ensure this book is available in her school library so that other kids can learn that everyone deserves respect, love and understanding. Thank you Avery!
Vanessa (verified owner) –
My daughter’s school purchased a few copies of this book and placed it in the classroom libraries in Kindergarten. It has become a class favorite! There is a transgender child in one of the classes and apparently she is reading it with her reading partners and it has helped her feel more welcome– and helped her classroom find their own ways to SPARKLE! Thank you Avery for this awesome books. It helps children understand the many special ways they can be amazing.
Carl (verified owner) –
This book is a kind and gentle reminder on how to treat people no matter their similarities or differences. Love it for all ages.