Still My Tessa

What a gentle but powerful story about the importance of using the right pronouns and how to be an ally for non-binary friends and family!

Still My Tessa is a sweet and poignant story about a little sister trying to connect with and understand her big sibling's non-binary identity and new pronouns. Soon  little Evelyn becomes Tessa's biggest advocate and helps to - not always gently - remind others of her sibling's preferred pronouns.

Beautifully illustrated by Matias Ball, this is a cute and age-appropriate story to introduce the topic of non-binary people and teach kids how to be allies for the non-binary people in their lives. It shows that the power of compassion, a willingness to learn, acknowledgement and love can make a massive impact on the life and sense of self of a non-binary child.

My Rating: 5 stars

Author: Sylv Chiang

Illustrator: Mathias Ball

Genre: LGBTQ+, Self-Identity, Canadian

Type and Source: Children's Picture Book from public library

Publisher: North Winds Press

First Published: January 2, 2024

Book Description from GoodReads: A gently affirming story of the connection between siblings. Evelyn is worried about Tessa. Tessa doesn’t want to play the same games they used to play together, but Evelyn is determined to find new ways to connect with her older sibling. And she is also learning to see Tessa as non-binary and using new pronouns for them. Evelyn learns quickly that it isn't hard. and helps others see that too. Through the course of this heartfelt story, Evelyn reaffirms her connection to her sibling and shows those around them how to make the effort to support Tessa ― with love. Back matter includes information on gender and ways to be a kind and effective ally.