Phoenix Goes to School

By Michelle and Phoenix Finch

Illustrated by Sharon Davey

Phoenix Goes to School~LOOK inside the book

Written from personal experience, Phoenix describes her experience going to school as a gender nonconforming child. As Phoenix begins school she worries what it will be like. Phoenix worries about wearing her favorite purple dress and that kids not understanding her. Her mom tells her she perfect and to be brave: "Just be yourself and always listen to your heart." By the end of her first day, she made new friends, felt welcome at her new school, and comfortable enough to wear her purple dress the next day! 

A good platform for discussing gender diversity, Phoenix Goes to School provides preschool and elementary children with insight into many understandings. It can be an introduction to gender diversity as Phoenix explains the doctors told her parents they had a baby boy when she was born, but she knows she is a girl. The book could be a starting point for discussing a classmate who is gender nonconforming or discussing the of pronouns: he, she, they  The book can be used to address bullying. In whatever form the book is used, it is an excellent addition to other books demonstrating embracing differences and celebrating how we are each unique. In addition to a wonderful story line, this book is beautifully illustrated!

Check out other books by the same publishing company