LGBTQIA+: And Tango Makes Three

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Evaluation of the book:
The illustrations in And Tango Makes Three are made of soft watercolor paintings. On the pages with people in Central Park and the Zoo, the illustrations are very colorful, showing families of different sizes, shapes, and ethnicity. These colorful illustrations silently express that diversity is a good thing, even though that theme is never directly addressed in the book.

The theme that is directly addressed in the book is that of same-sex relationships and their families and how they are not very different from other families. This theme is addressed through the story of two male penguins who are attracted to each other. The illustrations on the pages that contain penguins show that all of the penguin couples - both the “normal” male and female couples, and the same-sex couple of Roy and Silo - look exactly the same. Roy and Silo are indistinguishable from the rest of the penguins; this reinforces the text that says that there is nothing different about Roy and Silo.

Although the book is primarily focused on the theme of same sex attraction, it also contains cute little lessons on penguin behavior and mating rituals. These lessons on penguin behavior help the book not seem overly didactic and in-your-face with regard to the controversial theme. In addition to defending same-sex relationships, this book teaches children how penguins meet, mate, and sit on their eggs.

Response:

How much does the text agree or clash with your view of the world, and what you consider right and wrong?

I do not personally agree with same-sex relationships and the idea that they should raise children of their own, despite the fact that nature has not allowed them to procreate. That being said, it is important for children to learn at a young age to be accepting of all different people, including those who might have same-sex attraction or who might have same-sex parents. This book is a cute way to show that we all have more similarities than differences, and that’s what should be focused on in life.

Critique?

And Tango Makes Three is well written and has beautiful illustrations; it’s lesson on same-sex relationships, although contrary to my own personal beliefs, is well-expressed and not overly in-your-face. Overall, I found it to be a cute children’s book with adorable pictures.

How well did you enjoy the text (or not) as entertainment or as a work of art?

I really liked the illustrations in this book. I found the soft colors and adorable penguins very pleasing to look at, and I lingered on each page to soak them in. The story itself is cute as well and it’s cool to know that it’s a true story. I enjoyed the book, even if I might not read it to my own children.

Conclusion:

In an effort not to practice self-censorship, I would definitely have this book on the shelves of my children’s library. It expresses beautifully the differences and similarities in same-sex marriages and relationships, as well as teaches about penguins and illustrating diversity among people. It’s a good book and does not shove ideas down your throat, as some books on similar themes do.

APA Style Reference:

Richardson, J., Parnell, P., & Cole, H. (2005). And Tango makes three. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers.