A Song for Nolan

Get ready to roll with Nolan! Boys' skate! Girls' skate! Leave it to Nolan, who is nonbinary, to bring everyone together to sing, dance, and groove in this celebration of being yourself.

"Chen's thin-lined, saturated artwork is an ideal partner to Ellenwood's characterization in this uplifting tale about making room for oneself-and all." - Publisher's Weekly

"A useful reminder about the importance of inclusion for anyone planning group events." - School Library Journal

"A nonbinary kid carves out space for themself (and everyone!) at the roller rink." - Kirkus Reviews

When Nolan is invited to a birthday party at the roller rink, they are so excited. They pick out the perfect, sparkling outfit, tie on their snazzy skates, and join their friends for a day of roller skating bliss. But when the DJ calls for a boys skate followed by a girls skate, Nolan feels left out. With courage and a strong sense of self, Nolan bravely requests a song for EVERYONE. This powerful and joyful picture book uplifts and celebrates nonbinary children.

Published in partnership with media advocacy organization GLAAD, this empowering book positively represents LGBTQ families.

Author: Rushie Ellenwood
Publisher: Little Bee Books
Published: 06/11/2024
Pages: 32
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.85lbs
Size: 8.90h x 11.40w x 0.50d
ISBN: 9781499815238
Audience: Ages 4-8


Review Citation(s):
School Library Journal 03/15/2024 pg. 1
Publishers Weekly 04/01/2024
Kirkus Reviews 05/15/2024

About the Author
Rushie Ellenwood (she/they), has worked in copywriting and screenwriting, but nothing has brought them more joy than writing for kids--particularly those who feel unseen. When Rushie isn't writing or trying to make somebody laugh, they can be found roller skating at Oaks Park, shooting hoops with her kids, or walking their dog around Mount Tabor, which is a dormant volcano near her house in rainy Portland, Oregon. This is their first book, inspired by a true story.

Sally Chen (they/she/he) is a queer, non-binary, second-generation Chinese (specifically Taishanese!) American multidisciplinary artist who's born, raised, and based in Brooklyn, NYC. Through their work, they seek to create joy, laughter, instill softness, and maintain resiliency in a world that often feels too tough to be in. Whether this takes the form of whimsical, textured, and immersive illustrations awash with poetry, sculptural pieces, or silly animations, it's important to them to create work that speaks to their identity and culture whilst uplifting those around them.