This review is based on an ARC.

Super sweet book. My son and I loved it and it was a good taking point for our family. It opened doors to have conversations about identities in a meaningful and tangible way. A great addition to any shelf.

June brings with it a parade of books about…well, parades. Pride parades. And also, for me, a little procrastination, as this review is coming just a liiiiittle after Pride month. In my defense, the local Pride parade is in August, so it’s almost like I’m early!

This book focuses on the joy of being yourself, within the community. How we all come together to make something varied and greater than ourselves.

The artwork also does a great job with representation. Skin tones, gender expressions, limb differences, and assistive devices all have good variety, given the somewhat small cast size. The book ends with two brief essays (a couple paragraphs each), including questions to ask your child, to encourage them to think on diversity and inclusion. There are also some definitions, including some addressing discrimination.

This book isn’t so much “we’re here, we’re queer,” it’s “we’re here, we’re all different, and that’s wonderful!” I’m glad to see how queer picture books have progressed, over the years, to reflect joy, community, and diversity, not just who we love romantically.

Advanced reader copy provided by the publisher.

This book is awesome! It is such an incredible, affirming, and inspiring book for not only the LGBTQ+ community but for all those who love and support them too. The book talks about how we are all born full of colour and all have our own amazing rainbow. For some, having our colours show is easier than it is for others. It's so important for us to support the ones we love and let them be who they are. When we let people be who they are, that is when they shine!

What a beautiful way to explain to our youth that pride is about accepting who you are and not being afraid to show it. The rainbow colors and diverse characters are sure to keep children and adults interested. Absolutely amazing!

I really enjoyed this book, and already told my family that I will need a copy just for me. Every year at Pride our library kicks off the day with Pride Storytime, and I'm excited to bring this one out there this year!

The Rainbow Parade is an exceptional book! Shane Jordan and Rick Hendrix have expertly crafted a touching narrative that beautifully reflects the essence of the LGBTQIA+ community, emphasizing the significance of acceptance and friendship.

The illustrations are strikingly vibrant and the storytelling is poignant, seamlessly conveying themes of positivity and inclusivity. The pride parade serves as a powerful backdrop, symbolizing self-expression and unity, fostering a celebration of diversity, love, and mutual understanding.

In today's world, where acceptance and empathy are paramount, this book delivers a profound message. It underscores the importance of embracing individuality and appreciating one another's differences, serving as a beacon of positivity and unity.

For those seeking a heartwarming read that leaves a lasting impact, The Rainbow Parade is a must-read. Its powerful narrative and resonant themes make it a truly enriching experience. My son and I loved the experience of reading this book together.

"The Rainbow Parade" is a heartwarming and inclusive exploration of pride, beautifully illustrated and thoughtfully written. As a teacher-librarian, I am always seeking books that promote diversity and acceptance, and this one does so with grace and charm. Through its vivid depiction of the beauty of rainbows and their symbolic connection to Pride, the book gently encourages readers to celebrate their uniqueness and embrace their true selves. It skillfully conveys the message that while everyone possesses their own individual rainbow, it's sometimes challenging to feel pride in oneself. However, as the narrative unfolds, readers are reminded that when individuals are free to express their authentic selves, the collective radiance shines even brighter.

This enchanting story not only celebrates the LGBTQ+ community but also prompts readers to reflect on what makes them proud. It encourages self-discovery and fosters a sense of empowerment, inspiring readers to embrace their identities and appreciate the diversity that enriches our world. "The Rainbow Parade" is more than just a children's book; it's a powerful tool for promoting inclusivity, self-acceptance, and empathy in the classroom and beyond. With its affirming message and captivating illustrations, it's sure to spark meaningful conversations and leave a lasting impact on young hearts and minds.

This is a fantastic book with a great message and gorgeous artwork. Be yourself! Be different! Love how different people are!
Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this

Omg! This is adorable. It's a kids book for one. Two, the art is amazing. This books is very simple and straightforward. Don't be ashamed of who you are. Don't be ashamed of who you love. Overall just be you and I think that's the best goal anyone can ask for.

Thank you Netgalley for this book. It was colorful and beautiful and so SO important for everyone to read and belongs in every library.

"The Rainbow Parade" is an engaging book for kids of all ages (and adults) about acceptance and being who you are. The illustrations are vibrant and joyful, and a guide at the end opens doors for conversations along with a definition of terms. I would have loved to have had this when I was growing up, and look forward to sharing it now with my grandchild. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

This was a lovely book! I think it would make for a great read aloud with so many questions and opportunities for sharing.

The art style is beautiful and highlights so many diverse experiences.

The art in this book is beautiful and diverse, but the focus of the story is a little vague especially since part of the title is "A Celebration of LGBTQIA+ Identities and Allies". The book focuses on people's individuality and loving others, including all of their differences, but there's no specific examples of LGBTQIA+ identities in the story, only once you reach the end where there is a section called "Definitions for Wondering Minds".

There were also three pages of celebrity blurbs which seemed excessive to me.

Thank you to NetGalley for making this available in exchange for an honest review!

"The Rainbow Parade: A Celebration of LGBTQIA+ Identities and Allies" is a colorful book with appealing art that draws the reader in from the first page. The representation of people of color and varying abilities is terrific. Many pages have a question such as "when do you feel the most pride?" or "have you ever felt like you couldn't show your rainbow?" which open up discussion with your child. The message of the book is acceptance and being proud to be who you are openly--whatever that means for you.
At the end of the book there are several pages meant for caregivers to help them guide conversation around these topics. There are some suggestions or challenges for the reader to help them dismantle their gender stereotypes. Activities for rereads and definition of terms is also included.
I highly recommend this book for elementary and even young middle school children.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

The artwork is absolutely stunning!! I would read this book over and over again just to relish in the art. The vibrant colors and the inclusivity scream all things Pride! This is very cute & extremely quotable. Highly recommend to those who are trying to diversify their kids readings!

Thank to the authors, illustrators, publisher, & to NetGalley!