By Miranda Schoppert, head of Children’s Services at the Germantown branch of Montgomery County Public Libraries
Families come in all shapes and sizes. They go through ups and downs—periods of immense joy and moments of deep heartache. What one considers to be “a family” often evolves or changes throughout one’s lifetime. Whether you are celebrating Father’s Day, welcoming a new member to the family or just celebrating the love of those around you, may the books below show you the power of being and reading together.
PICTURE BOOKS
“Adventures with My Daddies”
by Gareth Peter, illustrated by Garry Parsons
Sneaking past dinosaurs, exploring the moon and fighting dragons are just some of the adventures one little boy gets up to with his two daddies. This LGBTQ adoption story centers around love, adventure and imagination. A perfect read for families of all shapes and sizes.
“Brand-New Bubbe”
by Sarah Aronson, illustrated by Ariel Landy
When her mother remarries, Jillian isn’t sure she wants a new grandmother, but her stomach is all for it. Jillian throws a “super soup celebration” to show Noni, Gram and her “brand-new Bubbe” that there is room for everyone in her heart… and stomach. With recipes included, this picture book celebrates the joy of blended families and how food brings us all together.
“Families Grow”
by Dan Saks, illustrated by Brooke Smart
A family may start with a wish, but it grows with love. This rhyming board book is a celebration of expectant families. Lightly touching on pregnancy, adoption and surrogacy, this book allows even the youngest family members to celebrate the pending growth of their own family. At the end of the book, there is a glossary with simple explanations that can be used to spark conversation.
“I Love You Because I Love You”
by Mượn Thị Văn, illustrated by Jessica Love
Love can be big. Love can be small. Love is complex and constantly evolving. Through call-and-response prose, with stunning illustrations by Jessica Love, Mượn Thị Văn creates a picture book that will leave readers with a sense of peace while they reflect on the love that is all around them.
“Nell Plants a Tree”
by Anne Wynter, illustrated by Daniel Miyares
Before tree-climbing or pie-making, before running or laughing—Nell plants a seed. This is the story of a little girl whose planting of a pecan tree becomes the heart of an intergenerational Black family and the love they share. With lyrical text and beautiful artwork, this book highlights family past, present and future.
“Our Table”
written and illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds
Recently, Violet’s family has gotten very busy with their TV watching, cell phone talking and tablet game playing. She remembers a time when everyone would laugh and tell stories around the dinner table. Determined to recapture those fond memories, Violet hatches a plan. Bestselling author Peter H. Reynolds creates a picture book about family, tradition and getting back to the table.
EARLY ELEMENTARY BOOKS
“Mama’s Days”
by Andi Diehn, illustrated by Ángeles Ruiz
A little girl tells the story of a princess, a queen and a misunderstood dragon in order to process her mother’s unstable emotions. A thoughtfully told story, with beautiful illustrations, about the ups and downs of parental depression. The story is told without blame and presents a strong little girl, full of hope for tomorrow.
“Sona Sharma, Very Best Big Sister?”
by Chitra Soundar, illustrated by Jen Khatun
Sona Sharma wants to be the very best big sister she can be, even if she isn’t so sure she wants a little sister or brother. Regardless, Sona is determined to pick out the perfect name for her new sibling’s baby-naming ceremony. Set in India, this early chapter book is 
charming and perfect for older siblings who need a little warming up to the idea of change.
“Too Small Tola”
by Atinuke
In the busy city of Lagos, Nigeria, Tola lives in an apartment with her sister, brother and grandmommy. She may be tiny, but she is always ready to help her family and community in big ways. Written through the eyes of little Tola, with fun illustrations, simple sentences and clear language, this book provides enjoyment for readers as they follow the ups and downs of mighty little Tola.
MIDDLE GRADE
“Lasagna Means I Love You”
by Kate O’Shaughnessy
When Mo’s Nan passes away, she is sent to a foster home where she finds an old family recipe book. The book becomes a lifeline for Mo, and as she starts pulling together her own collection of family recipes, she starts to realize that some families are made, not found. A heartfelt, middle grade novel that deals with mourning a loved one, foster care and found families.
“New From Here”
by Kelly Yang
When the coronavirus hits Hong Kong, Knox’s mother decides to move him and his siblings back to California, while his father stays in China for work. Now Knox must learn to fit in at a new school where he is ostracized for being Asian. This novel is about separation, fear, hate and the strength of family to pull one through.
“Squished”
by Megan Wagner Lloyd, illustrated by Michelle Mee Nutter
For 11-year-old Avery Lee, finding some time to herself can be tough, especially with six brothers and sisters. Longing for her own room, Avery hatches a plan that might be thwarted when she finds out her family could be moving. A graphic novel for any large household about finding your own space and growing up in a changing family dynamic.
“Tumble”
by Celia C. Pérez
Twelve-year-old Addie Ramírez has a tough decision to make. Is she ready to be adopted by the stepfather who loves her and is the only father figure she has ever known? Or should she search out her estranged biological father who, she discovers, is in the middle of a comeback as a Mexican luchador? Through this journey of discovery, Addie learns that family means more than just showing up. It’s about being real and working through challenges together.
YOUNG ADULT
“An Appetite for Miracles”
by Laekan Zea Kemp
Two teens come together while trying to reconnect to their individual families. Sixteen-year-old Danna Mendoza is determined to bring back her grandfather’s memories through food. Meanwhile, Raúl Santos doesn’t know how to feel now that his mother has been released from prison. This moving young adult novel, written in verse, explores the hope of reconnection and the fear of loss.
“¡AY, MIJA!: My Bilingual Summer in Mexico”
written and illustrated by Christine Suggs
In this young adult graphic novel memoir, Christine Suggs recalls a trip they took as a teen to Mexico to visit their grandparents. While attempting to adapt to language and cultural barriers, Christine comes to see the generational differences in their family and begins to explore their mixed world. This bilingual graphic novel will appeal to teens who are also struggling to embrace family heritage while being true to themselves.
“Firekeeper’s Daughter”
by Angeline Boulley
When family tragedy strikes, Daunis defers going away to college to stay home and care for her mother. After witnessing a murder, Daunis accidentally becomes embroiled in the investigation of a series of drug-related deaths that seem to lead back to the nearby Ojibwe reservation. This YA thriller follows one Native girl who must decide between those she loves or her tribal community. P
