Worm Loves Worm introduces kids to the concept of marriage equality in a delightful way. The story begins with two worms who meet and fall in love. As they plan their wedding, their friends curiously ask who will don the dress and who will wear the tuxedo. The charming response? It simply doesn’t matter because, as the title states, “Worm loves Worm.”
Written by J.J. Austrian and illustrated by Mike Curato, this picture book addresses what many parents consider a challenging topic: marriage equality. Although it marks Austrian’s debut as a children’s author, Curato is already well-known for his previous works, including Little Elliot, Big City and Little Elliot, Big Family, both of which promote themes of inclusion and acceptance through captivating illustrations.
In a heartfelt blog post, Curato reflects on his journey, emphasizing that our differences make us unique. He shares his own experiences of doubting he could marry due to legal restrictions, which were lifted when he married his husband, Alex, in 2013, shortly after same-sex marriage became legal in Washington State. Curato completed the illustrations for Worm Loves Worm in February 2015, just months before the Supreme Court ruled that same-sex marriage was a right for all Americans.
As a parent, I’ve witnessed how young children, including my own, perceive love and relationships. My daughter, now almost three, has grown up seeing affection between same-sex couples, like her uncle and his partner, without any confusion. She has never questioned their love, nor has my five-year-old, who simply accepts it as part of life.
Kids are not born with prejudice; they learn it from society. By teaching them about marriage equality early on, we can help them understand that love knows no boundaries. This makes Worm Loves Worm an essential addition to children’s literature, and it highlights the need for more inclusive books in the market.
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In summary, Worm Loves Worm serves as an excellent resource for introducing children to the idea of marriage equality, reinforcing that love is love, regardless of gender. The book encourages open conversations between parents and children about acceptance and inclusion, proving that these discussions don’t have to be daunting.