Diversity was the main theme of The Bookseller’s Children’s Conference 2022. Diversity is important as barriers still need to be overcome, as few published children’s books include diverse characters and topics. The biggest issue is overcoming how writing literature about diverse topics is seen as an adult subject. This year LGBTQ+ literature has had a lot of attention, for example in the Heartstopper series following its release on Netflix, which features multiple LGBTQ+ characters. Yet, there is still more that needs to be done, as there is a lack of intersection between themes of diversities. Furthermore, books that are aimed at younger children do not feature in as many literary awards as young adult novels, which stops LGBTQ+ children’s books from gaining recognition.  

The talk from The Bookseller’s Children’s Conference that captured my interest was, ‘Why We Need LGBTQ+ Representation in Children’s Culture’ (2022) by Jodie Lancet-Grant and Charlie Morris. As a queer woman myself, it is exciting knowing that there is an awareness of LGBTQ+ literature in the publishing industry. Seeing yourself reflected in novels at a younger age is especially important. As Jodie Lancet-Grant said, it is good for children to know that “families like ours are worth writing stories about, that we are not just hidden in the shadows.” Children are still learning about the world, so it is vital to show them different people and their lives. Being LGBTQ+ does not have to be the driving force of the narrative; instead, this could just be a background fact, as it would allow children to see how it is a normal part of life.  

Jodie Lancet-Grant also bought up the idea that for some children, “regardless of how parents’ attitudes might be. We can still get these stories in front of the kids and show them a more inclusive world. These might be stories that they cannot see otherwise.” This is important for both LGBTQ+ children and non-LGBTQ+ children. It allows some children, who otherwise wouldn’t be, to be exposed to the diversity of sexualities, genders and family units. Parents may think that the topic is not for children, but as Jodie Lancet-Grant mentions “there is nothing inherently adult about queer relationships.” Children should learn about these relationships, as it opens them up to the opportunity of figuring out their own identity outside of the mainstream heterosexual norms.  

Jodie Lancet-Grant also talked about the Polari Prize, an award given to LGBTQ+ books, which I did not know about before this talk. This is an effective way to ensure that several types of LGBTQ+ texts are promoted so everyone can find a book that represents them. However, as Jodie Lancet-Grant mentioned, there have not been many children’s books submitted. This needs to be changed as children deserve books that reflect their reality.  

Additionally, ‘The Children’s Market Overview 2022’ by Kiera O’Brien, highlighted the Heartstopper sales as it sold over half a million copies. This is a graphic novel featuring not only a gay male protagonist, but a variety of other characters across the LGBTQ+ spectrum. I do, however, hope more sapphic and transgender protagonist stories get further recognition and gain popularity in the future.