Jacob’s School Play: Starring He, She & They!

“Making space for everyone is no small task. Seeing one another, asking the right questions, and honoring how each person walks through the world is something learned, but not often enough taught. As Jacob’s class prepares costumes and set pieces for their play about life on the farm, Jacob is confused that Ari is playing the part of water in all its forms and that Ari identifies using they/their pronouns. But this is not a book about conflict or being accepted by others for who you are. It’s about classmates each embracing that their experience is not the only experience and that every person fits beautifully into this world in their own way. I’m so grateful that children in every classroom will have the opportunity to see themselves and their friends represented in Jacob’s Play. That’s so needed and so beautifully done in this book.”

Matthew Winner, The Children’s Book Podcast April 30, 2021

“The school play metaphor is gentle and effective in showing one child…comprehending a classmate’s nonbinary identity.”

Publisher’s Weekly May 2, 2021

“This straightforward and important book that honors everyone will help adults have thoughtful conversations with young children about gender identity, particularly the message about respecting someone’s choice to use non-gendered pronouns. Case’s beautifully textured illustrations invite the child reader into the bustling, friendly classroom.”

Bobbie Peyton, Booklist May 3, 2021