Rainbow Allies - by Nancy Churnin (Hardcover)

About the Book

Book Synopsis

A true story of allyship and standing up to anti-LGBTQ hate.

A 2025 Notable Social Studies Trade Book Winner

When a lesbian couple comes home one day to find their Pride flag stolen and their front porch egged, the sense of belonging they had felt in their community is threatened. Are they safe in their house? The support they need comes from an unexpected place--the neighborhood's children. Together, the local kids create a plan to show Cari and Lauri just how valued they are in the community.

Based on real-life events, Rainbow Allies tells the story of how a Massachusetts neighborhood rallied together around Cari and Lauri--and their dogs, Twink and Scout--to make them feel welcomed and loved again after an act of hate. Written by multi-award-winning author Nancy Churnin, this book is an inspiring introduction to allyship for young readers and changemakers.

Backmatter includes guidance for how children can be LGBTQ allies in their own communities.

Review Quotes

"This critical message of community, unconditional love, respect, and allyship will resonate particularly during these turbulent times of political and social unrest." --The Bay Area Reporter

"Churnin's telling is sturdy and impassioned about the message, that everyone is welcome. It's worth repeating, again and again. A little good news, for once, amplified into an easy book to work into community, LGBTQIA+, politics, and civics units." --School Library Journal

"Based on a true story, this touching picture book demonstrates that hate can always be overcome by love and community--and suggests some age-appropriate methods for being part of the solution." --Foreword Reviews

"Deftly written and based on a real event, Rainbow Allies by author/storyteller Nancy Churnin is an inspiring picture book read for young readers and aspiring changemakers." --Midwest Book Review

"A purposeful yet poignant exploration of allyship." --Kirkus Reviews

"Churnin's step-by-step narration and Evans's crisp neighborhood landscapes bolster this straightforward allyship-oriented picture book based on real events." --Publishers Weekly