Ash + Chess is a cute stationery company run by queer and trans couple Ashley Molesso (she/her) and Chess Needham (he/him). They create greeting cards and art prints that are bold, retro color palettes and they often use their artwork to make a political statement and to uplift the queer community. Since making their debut in 2017 at the National Stationery Show, they now sell their products in more than 900 retailers throughout the world. They are the author of The Gay Agenda, My Queer Year, and Queer Tarot. This is their first children's book.

"An ABC book that challenges gender norms... offers a much-needed takeaway."--Kirkus Reviews

"This vibrantly illustrated abecedary from the queer-and-trans-couple owners of stationery company Ash + Chess reminds readers of all ages that a gender identity is whatever a person wants theirs to be...A retro, 1970s color palette presents a distinct, colorful, unapologetically in-your-face world, populated with people of every shape, color, and size. To counter stereotypes, masculine characters are labeled as 'nurturing' and 'affectionate, ' feminine ones as 'tough' and 'protective, ' and nonbinary or gender-fluid ones as 'gentle' and 'joyous.' It's often challenging to discern which character is being referenced in a given illustration--an intentional and effective choice meant to broaden perspectives. The wide expanse of emotions, activities, settings, and walks of life will spark readers' imaginations while also encouraging them to think outside the box and the binaries when it comes to gender. A fun and incredibly inclusive primer that will open the door for important conversations with kids about identity and who they want to be in their daily lives."--Booklist

"Good-vibes graphics that incorporate the colors of the Pride and trans flags show affectionate figures interacting, emphasizing the empowering message of the book's dedication: 'To everyone out there who has found the courage to be themselves and to those who have yet to.'"--Publishers Weekly

Publisher: Running Press Kids

Pub date: 2023-05-02

Length: 32 pages