by Arthur Webber, illustrated by Ang Hui Qing
Hardback, £12.99
This is a bright and exciting picture book that tells an important and moving story, aimed at children aged 3 and up. Jacob is a young boy who is trans and loves football. He moves from the girls’ to the boys’ football team, and after some hurdles, is accepted and welcomed by his teammates.
The story is uplifting and points out how simple socially transitioning can be. Webber describes how Jacob realises he is a boy, asks his family to call him Jacob and use he/him pronouns, and chooses the clothes and haircut that feel right for him. Social transition is presented as joyful, not something to be feared, and Ang Hui Qing’s illustrations show Jacob’s beaming smiles when he takes these gender-affirming steps in a really joyful way. However, Webber does highlight the challenges of being visibly different when those around you haven’t had the necessary education. Some of the children bully Jacob, but the bullying stops when they have a visit from a youth worker who teaches them about transness and answers their questions. The illustrations make beautiful use of colour to reflect the changing mood at different parts of the story. Darker blue and purple reflect the hurt Jacob feels when he is being bullied, and brighter blue, yellow and pink show the excitement and happiness of being welcomed and winning a football match.
At the back of the book, Webber includes a helpful glossary of key terms for adults, and explains the importance of including everyone in sport. He acknowledges how toxic the discussion around the topic has become, and this wonderful picture book is an excellent antidote!
I would highly recommend this book to anyone starting conversations with children about gender and inclusion – Webber handles many important themes in an informative, easy-to-understand and joyful way.
Review by Jamie