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Friday, July 31, 2020

When Aidan Became a Brother, written by Kyle Lukoff and illustrated by Kaylani Juanita. Lee & Low Books, Fitzhenry and Whiteside. 2019. $24.95 ages 6 and up

"Every baby needs a name. Aidan loved getting to choose his own, but he remembered it had been hard for his parents to let go of the name they had given him. He looked for names that could fit this new person no matter who they grew up to be. Babies need someone to read to them, ... "

For a while only Aidan knew that his name, the clothes he wore, and the room called his, did not fit who he knew he was inside. Everyone thought he was a girl. Aidan knew he was not. It was hard for him to discuss it with his parents. There was no other choice for him. For help in understanding their transgender son, Aidan's parents look to other families for help and guidance.

"Aidan explored different ways of being a boy. He tried out
lots of names until one stuck. They changed his bedroom into
a place where he belonged. He also took much better care of
his new clothes."

When Mom and Dad tell him there is going to be a new baby, Aidan is full of questions, and the anticipated joy of being a big brother. The family make preparations as all families do. In the midst of buying new clothes, painting the nursery and considering a name for the new baby, the reader is shown how certain expectations from others can lead to understanding the importance of a thoughtful response.

"Are you having a boy or a girl?' asked a lady.
Aidan didn't like it when people asked if he was a boy or a
girl, and he hoped the baby couldn't hear yet. He was glad
when Mom just smiled and said, "I'm having a baby."

Aidan's days are filled with thinking about the new baby, and worrying that the baby might feel as he did when he was little. He wants to do everything the right way. Will he make a mess of it? Assured by his mother that all will be well, Aidan gets on with being full prepared to welcome this new little one. 

“We made some mistakes but you helped us fix them. And you taught us how important it is to love someone for exactly who they are. This baby is lucky to have you and so are we.”

Ms. Juanita's digital artwork brings the family dynamic to clear and brilliant life. The colors and patterns are eye-catching and fun. 
                                                                           

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