Sam Is My Sister

February 1, 2021
Sam's brother wonders if they can still play the same games now that Sam has come out as transgender. "Brothers to the moon!" Evan proclaims as he leads his two siblings on an imaginary space journey. The only problem is that Sam isn't his brother--she's his sister. Evan is hurt that Sam doesn't want to be like her brothers anymore; Sam wants long hair, bows, and princess books. With the help of supportive parents, Evan comes to understand and accept Sam's choices and her autonomy, and he learns that even princesses can go to the moon. The simple, full-page illustrations portraying the White family are cute but feel aesthetically and emotionally stiff. Like most trans girls in fiction, Sam has stereotypically girly interests and many pink outfits, but Rhodes-Courter does point out that clothes, books, and hobbies are for everyone, regardless of gender. The text is a little more instructional than it is entertaining, but it successfully explains being transgender in a clear and age-appropriate way while demonstrating the value of a loving family. Though it falls into the unfortunate trap of centering the experience of cisgender family members, it does have a worthwhile lesson: Transitioning does not change who someone is in their heart. A satisfactory trans picture book that can support discussion at home or school. (author's note, resources) (Picture book. 4-7)

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May 3, 2021
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.