Some people, such as Robert Bittner, suggest that it is important to circumvent a 'universalizing narrative' with more varied stories of members of the LGBTQ+ community. 10,000 Dresses and most other books in this genre focus on a 'boy' with interests that are typically associated with females, like, as seen in 10,000 Dresses, wearing dresses. įurthermore, this genre is very often criticized for focusing on 'boys in dresses', reflecting 'stereotypical gendered interests' as well as a lack of diversity in the protagonists' families. This conversation was followed by students introducing additional topics, including discussion about how clothing selection and toys characterize their gender.

Many of her students claimed that the length of one's hair could be used to identify their gender. Teacher and psychologist Jennifer Burke, for example, read 10,000 Dresses to her third-grade class, which led to a discussion about determining gender. Books in this genre are often used in classrooms to introduce and discuss LGBTQ+ topics. With Laurel's help, Bailey designs a dress with mirrors on it and is able to express herself in the way that she has always wanted.ġ0,000 Dresses is an LGBTQ+ picture book designed for elementary school children to be shared in a classroom setting. Laurel explains that although she wants to make dresses with her sewing machine, she does not have any design ideas. Laurel is inspired by Bailey's courageous spirit so they quickly become friends. But soon Bailey meets an older woman named Laurel from across the street who seems more accepting about Bailey's love of dresses. Even her older brother calls her 'gross' and threatens to hurt her. At first, however, they become angry, and tell her, 'You're a BOY', and 'You shouldn't be thinking about dresses at all'. Bailey then tells her parents about these dresses and asks for their help in finding them as she really wants to wear them. She dreams of mystical dresses made with a variety of designs including flowers, rainbows, and windows. The story is told from the viewpoint of Bailey, a young transgender girl who dreams of dresses. Although its acceptance by the LGBTQ+ community has earned it several awards, the picture book suffers from controversy, having been banned or challenged at particular institutions. ġ0,000 Dresses and other books of the same genre have received criticism for the lack of diversity in their LGBTQ+ protagonists. The book is notable for being one of the first children's books depicting transgender people's experiences. When she comes to her parents for help, they are not particularly accepting, but she eventually meets a friend inspired by her courage who is willing to help her out. It is about a young transgender girl named Bailey who dreams of wearing extravagant dresses. 10,000 Dresses is a 2008 children's picture book written by Marcus Ewert, illustrated by Rex Ray and published by Seven Stories Press.

10000 dresses book