Booklist Review

In the middle; in between; almost but not quite: all concepts that award-winning author Gayle E. Pitman (This Day in June, 2014) highlights in this charming and sensitive new picture book about a parent who is neither male nor female, neither father nor mother. Gender norms and gender expression are thoughtfully explored through various metaphors as the child and Maddy go about their days together. For example, over breakfast one morning, Maddy expounds, "I love sporks. . . . It's not a spoon or a fork, but kind of both." Illustrated by Violet Tobacco (Super Scientists Who Stunned the World, forthcoming 2021) in bright colors--contrasted with white sketches denoting the child's imagination--this book is visually engrossing on a number of levels. Furthermore, Tobacco has a deft touch in portraying Maddy in a way that defies the expectations of many adults when it comes to the physical attributes of men and women in contemporary society. Dr. Randall Ehrbar contributes additional back matter that explains relevant concepts such as bias, parental transition, gender affirmation, and gender identity. My Maddy is a heartfelt narrative that marries refreshingly unapologetic LGBTQ illustrations with text that many child readers will be able to relate to. This celebration of nonconforming parents is a nuanced and noteworthy addition to any home, classroom, or library.