Body positivity, body neutrality, fat liberation, inclusivity—no matter what you call it, representing and normalizing a range of body types and abilities is crucial in children’s media. I’ve felt strongly about this for decades, and it’s really only in the last five years that I’ve seen a shift in the picture book world.
I’ll never forget the moment I heard that Big by Vashti Harrison had won the Caldecott Medal. I erupted into tears of shock and joy. Winning a Caldecott means a title will never go out of print. It ensures the book will live on recommendation lists accessed by casual readers, booksellers, and library patrons for generations to come. In this case, it means thousands more children will hear the story of a girl who is mocked for being too big, but who ultimately decides not to let hurtful words go unaddressed or define her. This masterpiece doesn’t just exist; it is celebrated with the highest honor in picture books. Things are changing.
Below, I’ve gathered a few more titles that allow children to celebrate the many different ways bodies can exist in the world. The genre needs everything: joyful illustrations, accurate language to name body parts and their functions, and a general respect for these vessels that allow us to navigate our lives. Here’s hoping the publishing world continues to meet the moment and spread the message that there is more than one way to have a body.
Your Body is Awesome (2nd edition): Body Respect for Children by Sigrun Danielsdottir and Bjork Bjarkadottir
One way to build a positive view of bodies is to appreciate the staggering number of amazing things they can do. Your Body is Awesome: Body Respect for Children hits this exact note by explaining bodily functions, using anatomically correct vocabulary, and celebrating the truly magical properties of these human machines. A wonderful bonus in this edition is the inclusion of greater diversity in the illustrations, alongside mentions of gender fluidity and representations of physical disabilities.
Everybelly by Thao Lam
I’m breathless. This book physically feels like it belongs in a museum, featuring paper-cut art reminiscent of Eric Carle and Oge Mora, alongside a unique size and shape that create a striking visual impact. Add in the fantastic subject matter—bellies!—all viewed at the eye level of young Maddie, and you’ve got a life-changing picture book. A day at the pool turns into pondering all the bellies soaking in the sun, and it features a range of different sizes, shapes, and decorations. I keep my copy of this book displayed year-round because the shot of joy I get every time I pass the gorgeous cover has become one of the best parts of my day.
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Everybody Has a Body by Molli Jackson Ehlert and Lorian Tu
Molli Jackson Ehlert is exactly the kind of author I dreamed of following when I first started reviewing children’s books. Her books are fun and beautiful, neutrally discussing minefield topics like food and bodies with bright optimism. This title features a wonderful variety of body types, and Lorian Tu’s illustrations are a delight. Not a message but a song, Everybody Has a Body is a must for any picture book collection.
Hopefully, these body-positive picture books have given you some food for thought. Whether you’re using them to educate young children or heal a wound from your own past, their impact is powerful. If you’re looking for more recommendations, check out even more body positive children’s books. Happy reading!
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