2024 NATIONAL MEDAL
for Museum and Library Service Finalist

Picture Book

Sam!

Nobody knew Sam was a boy except for him. Sam loves riding his bike and learning about the American Revolution. He is full of laughter and joy. There's just one problem: Sam's family knows him as a girl named Isabel. Sam feels a sense of relief when he finally confides in his annoying but caring sister Maggie, and then his parents, even though it takes them a while to feel comfortable with it.

Be Amazing: a History of Pride

Desmond is Amazing is a drag-kid, model, fashion icon, and social justice activist. When he isn't slaying on the catwalk or performing drag, he's an outspoken anti-bullying and LGBTQ advocate. In this uplifting picture book about being yourself, Desmondshows how he can be amazing thanks to courageous people like Marsha P. Johnson, Sylvia Rivera, and RuPaul who paved the way for a safer, more inclusive society for LGBTQ individuals.

Julian is a Mermaid

While riding the subway home from the pool with his abuela one day, Julián notices three women spectacularly dressed up. Their hair billows in brilliant hues, their dresses end in fishtails, and their joy fills the train car. When Julián gets home, daydreaming of the magic he's seen, all he can think about is dressing up just like the ladies in his own fabulous mermaid costume: a butter-yellow curtain for his tail, the fronds of a potted fern for his headdress.

Call me Max

When Max starts school, the teacher hesitates to call out the name on the attendance sheet. Something doesn't seem to fit. Max lets her know the name he wants to be called by. This begins Max's journey as he makes new friends and reveals his feelings about his identity to his parents.