Families who loved Jacob's School Play: Starring He, She, and They by Ian Hoffman often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child starts noticing that not everyone fits into a simple he or she category, or when they have questions about a friend who uses different pronouns. It is a gentle, supportive tool for explaining gender identity through the relatable lens of a school play. The story follows Jacob and his classmates as they prepare for a performance, highlighting how small changes in language can make a big difference in how someone feels. While the book centers on Ari, a nonbinary student, it is told through Jacob's observant and empathetic perspective. This makes it an ideal choice for teaching young children aged 4 to 8 about allyship and the importance of respecting how others want to be seen. It fosters a sense of belonging and helps normalize diverse gender expressions in a way that feels natural and celebratory within a familiar school setting.
