"Daddy, Papa, & Me" by Leslea Newman

The first controversial book I read was "Daddy, Papa, and Me" by Leslea Newman. This story is obviously pinpointed controversial from a conservative standpoint based on the notion of having two male parents. This concept of gay marriage in children's books has become increasingly prevalent in the past two decades. As elementary school curricula continues to become more liberal, there are still many parents who frown upon reading such books regarding gay parents.

I think this short story is a short and simple way to bring up the idea of gay marriage to younger children. As you read the story to the children, they will notice that one of the parents is wearing an apron, and they both partake in roles regarding the typical "American" family. However, children will soon be asking "Why are there two daddies... where's the mommy?" After children ask this question, the teacher would carefully be able to explain that many people have two mommies or two daddies, and that it is perfectly normal. Teaching these concepts at an early age is a great way to raise awareness of gay marriage to children at a young age, so that they may be more tolerant of such family structures in society.