Common Sense Media Review
By Mandie Caroll
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Joyful, tender story of child's first Pride celebration.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 4+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
It's June and time to celebrate Pride in MARLEY'S PRIDE, but Marley, a kid with sensory sensitivities, doesn't like crowds, loud noises, or getting bumped into. They're not so sure about going to the parade with their grandparent, Zaza. But Zaza is getting an award for their many years of service to the community, and deep down, Marley really does want to go. After breathing deeply, meditating, and gathering headphones and other comfort items, grandchild and grandparent make their way to the gathering. Will Marley be able to leave the car to see Zaza get their award? What else will happen if they face their fears?
Is It Any Good?
This sweet, tender tale of an easily overwhelmed nonbinary kiddo and their nonbinary grandparent attending a Pride celebration is a gem of a picture book. The supportive relationship between the main characters, coupled with bright, bold colors and lushly patterned illustrations, captures the joy of the season and also how overstimulating it can be for some people.
Young readers will relate to how Marley feels and then how Marley faces their fear, and will share the triumph when Marley's courageous risk-taking pays off. The "More about Marley's Pride" pages following the story are packed with helpful facts and history that can extend learning. This is a perfect pick for Pride season and beyond.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the main character's fears in Marley's Pride. What does Marley do at home to prepare for the celebration? How does Zaza support Marley at Pride?
Kids: When have you needed to practice calming yourself or relied on the support of loving adults in order to do something that was scary, but you really wanted to do it? What was it like? Did you learn anything about courage or perseverance?
What's your favorite part of the story or favorite drawing in the book? Why did it grab your attention?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : DeAnn Wiley
- Genre : Family Life
- Topics : Activism , Friendship , History , Holidays
- Character Strengths : Communication , Compassion , Courage , Empathy , Perseverance
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Barefoot Books
- Publication date : April 2, 2024
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 3 - 9
- Number of pages : 32
- Available on : Paperback, Hardback
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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