Express Yourself

Can a spunky, gender-nonconforming kindergartner convince a well-meaning but traditional parent to let her express her true self? That’s the question at the heart of Molly’s Tuxedo, the first picture book from Vicki Johnson ’87. Molly has big plans to wear a dashing tuxedo for her first picture day at school, but her mom has picked out a dress with “fluffy, puffy parts,” a “weird, annoying collar,” and, worst of all, no pockets. (No pockets!)

The book will hit home for anyone whose idea of the perfect outfit ever clashed with a parent’s; more impotantly, it will serve as a conversation starter for parents and educators who want to discuss topics like gender norms and self-expression with children. Johnson was a 2022 Lambda Literary fellow—the organization champions LGBTQ books and authors—and Molly’s Tuxedo was published in partnership with GLAAD, which aims to promote LGBTQ inclusivity and acceptance.

Molly's Tuxedo
By Vicki Johnson ’87
Illustrated by Gillian Reid
Little Bee Books
June 2023