I Am Jazz
What’s inside...
I Am Jazz is a children's book that tells the true story of Jazz Jennings, a transgender girl who knew from a very young age that she was a girl trapped in a boy's body. The book explores Jazz's journey of self-discovery and acceptance, as well as the love and support she receives from her family. Jazz always knew she was different from other kids. She had a girl's brain and a boy's body. This is her story. The story of a transgender child based on the real-life experience of Jazz Jennings, who has become a spokesperson for transkids everywhere. From the time she was two years old, Jazz knew that she had a girl's brain in a boy's body. She loved pink and dressing up as a mermaid and didn't feel like herself in boys' clothing. This confused her family, until they took her to a doctor who said that Jazz was transgender and that she was born that way. Jazz's story is based on her real-life experience and she tells it in a simple, clear way that will be appreciated by picture book readers, their parents, and teachers. Jazz Jennings was thirteen years old when this book was first published, and loves pink and soccer, and is an honorary cofounder of the TransKids Purple Rainbow Foundation. She has appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Network, 20/20 specials with Barbara Walters, and The Rosie Show to tell her story, and she speaks at schools and conferences across the country to show other transgender kids that they are not alone. Age Rating: Preschool - 3+ / 5-11+ Edition MSRP: US $17.99 / $19.99 CAN (ISBN 978-0-8037-4107-2) Manufactured in China on acid-free paper
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-5
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Jazz feels when she shares her true self with her friends and family?
What does it mean to be true to yourself? Can you share a time when you were brave like Jazz?
Why is it important to respect and accept everyone's differences?
How can we be good friends to someone who might feel different from us?
What are some ways we can support and show love for our friends and family?
Tip: Role play these questions
As you read the book with your child, pause at key moments to discuss Jazz's feelings and decisions. Ask your child how they might feel in similar situations.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and emotions about the book's themes, validating their feelings and connecting them to the importance of empathy and acceptance.
Use examples from the book to talk about the importance of diversity and inclusion in your own community.
After reading, consider watching related videos or documentaries that further explore the topic of identity and acceptance for deeper understanding and engagement.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Acceptance of Differences
Explanation: I Am Jazz is a story about a transgender child, Jazz, which fosters understanding and acceptance of gender diversity.
Real-World Application: Children learn to accept and embrace individual differences among their peers and in their community, promoting inclusivity.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Through Jazz's personal experiences, the book provides insights into the challenges faced by transgender children.
Real-World Application: Children can develop empathy by understanding the feelings and perspectives of others, aiding them in building compassionate relationships.
Example Lesson: Self-Identity
Explanation: Jazz confidently expresses her gender identity, demonstrating the importance of self-awareness and honesty about who you are.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore and affirm their own identities, leading to improved self-esteem and personal growth.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Jazz shows bravery in sharing her true self despite societal pressures and challenges.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to stand up for themselves and others, even when it's difficult, fostering a sense of moral courage.
Example Lesson: Supportive Relationships
Explanation: The book highlights the role of supportive family and friends in Jazz’s journey.
Real-World Application: Teaches the importance of seeking and offering support in times of need, nurturing strong, positive relationships in a child's life.