Disclosure: I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

June is Pride Month. As a straight ally and teacher, I feel it is important for us to take time to support the LGBTQ community. Today I get to share a brand-new picture book about a first crush between two girls. The book is called The Wishing Flower by A.J. Irving and illustrated by Kip Alizadeh. The recommended ages are 4 to 8.

From the Publisher:

An LGBTQ-inclusive story about understanding your peers, your feelings, and yourself, The Wishing Flower is a love letter to longing, belonging, and longing to belong.

Birdie finds comfort in nature and books, but more than anything she longs for connection, to be understood. At school, Birdie feels like an outsider. Quiet and shy, she prefers to read by herself, rather than jump rope or swing with the other kids. That all changes when Sunny, the new girl, comes along. Like Birdie, Sunny has a nature name. She also likes to read and loves to rescue bugs. And when Sunny smiles at her, Birdie’s heart balloons like a parachute.

From Me:

Although there are some heart flutters and "dragonflies" in her stomach, it is hard to say this is an LGBTQ book. The story could be seen as a lonely girl who has trouble fitting in finding a first friend. With that being said, it is a sweet story about Birdie who loves to wish on dandelions--or wish flowers. Her wish seems to be for a friend or someone like her. Then Sunny joins her class. And everything changes. Birdie saves a large wishing flower and shares it with Sunny after school, but both of their wishes have been answered.

This book is a cute story and is a great introduction for younger kids to LGBTQ relationships and feelings. Yet, as I mentioned it could be looked at as a friendship story as well. Their day seems fun from recess to drawing and playing Red Rover. The girls instantly bond and obviously instantly like each other. The book is fun and can bring on many discussions.