Adorable new trans fairytale teaches trans kids ‘they’re worthy of love in a world that tells them they’re not’
Raven Wild is teaching children about transgender visibility and acceptance through inclusive storytelling (Image supplied)
An adorable new illustrated children’s book is giving kids a trans heroine to look up to, and a happily ever after to match.
Launched by a $58,000NZD Kickstarter campaign and a creative team supported by Sir Ian McKellen and George Takei, Raven Wild is the third book in an LGBT-inclusive trilogy set “in a world where equality exists and no one is discriminated against for who they are”.
It tells the story of Raven, courageous young woman who was raised as a boy named Hawk. One day Raven learns of an evil poacher’s plan to steal a powerful gem and embarks on a jungle quest to save the animal kingdom from harm. Along the way, a childhood friendship transforms into love.
“At a time when certain children’s book authors like She Who Shall Not Be Named are mercilessly attacking the transgender community online, we’re proud to release a story with authentic and positive representation, and an affirming message of identity, loyalty and love,” said co-author Chaz Harris.
“I want trans kids to have a role model to show them they’re worthy of love in a world that continues to say they’re not,” added his co-author Caitlin Spice.
“A book like this would have made such a difference to me growing up and as a fan of the previous books it’s been a thrill to be part of the team bringing Raven Wild to life.”
Raven Wild is the third book in the LGBT-inclusive Promised Land trilogy (Image supplied)
Trans author Caitlin joined both Chaz and Adam Reynolds, who co-founded Promised Land Tales to create the positive trans representation they needed to see as children.
It follows the two preceding books in the trilogy, Promised Land and Maiden Voyage, which are gay and lesbian fairytales for children aged five to 10.
Raven Wild was released in August to coincide with the first National Schools Pride Week in New Zealand. It’s available to buy now from promisedlandstore.com and in bookstores.
