Stonewall: The Uprising for Gay Rights by Jamey Christoph, Rob Sanders
Published by Random House on April 1st 2019
ISBN: 1524719528
Goodreads

Stonewall is an informational picture book from the point of view of the actual building itself. Sanders traces the origins of the building back to the 1840s as two stable houses, through their combination into a restaurant, and finally their opening as a gay nightclub in 1967. Sanders details the importance of the then describes the Stonewall Riots. Sanders doesn’t go into details that would be overwhelming for the young audience that this book is meant for, but doesn’t shy away from truth or accurate definitions. Though no participants are named, Sanders makes sure to give transgender women a particular mention. These women are often left out of the history of the night, though participants often credit them with being instrumental in instigating the event changed the path of LGBTQIA rights.

The illustrations by Jamey Christoph render the events in beautiful detail and color, evoking the emotions of the history of Stonewall in a way that is digestible by young people.

Included in the back of the book are a more in-depth and less narrative history of the Stonewall Inn, photographs from the inn and the uprising, an interview with Martin Boyce (a participant of that night), a glossary (with respectful and accurate definitions), and websites/books/podcasts for further information.

A critical piece of history, perfectly pitched for a preschool-elementary school audiences. A must-buy.

Reviewed by Sarah Cropley, Scarborough Public Library.