Sam Is My Sister

Based on her own children, Rhodes-Courter writes this narrative following Sam, a blond, freckled transgender girl, and her pale, brown-haired brothers Evan and Finn, who notice that Sam is starting to prefer typically female-gendered things including “glittery” princess books, longer hair, and dresses. With the support of understanding parents, Sam begins to affirm her gender identity, and Evan and Finn begin to learn what being transgender means and how for Sam and some other people, “the way they think and feel inside doesn’t match what they look like on the outside.” Haley contributes simple dot-eyed digital portrayals, enriched with fabric textures. While the book centers the perspectives of Sam’s family instead of Sam herself, its clear narrative arc, slightly didactic prose, and expressive art cohere into a picture book that is a solid jumping-off point for guardian- or educator-led discussions. Includes an author’s note and resources. Ages 4–8. (Mar.)