Pinky & Rex Books

Read the twelve stories in publication order to follow the friends' families and school experiences naturally. Each book also stands alone, so a child can begin with a timely topic such as a new baby, camp, a school play, or bullying.

Sources: Simon & Schuster Pinky & Rex series, Simon & Schuster twelve-book catalog.

The series is especially thoughtful about individuality. Pinky is a boy who loves pink, Rex is a girl who loves dinosaurs, and their friendship gives both children room to resist other people's narrow expectations without turning their interests into a problem.

Several books address real social pressure, including teasing and bullying. Others involve a new sibling, neighbors, pets, camp, and time with two fathers during a weekend outing. The tone remains warm and age-appropriate, but these stories can open useful conversations about family structures, stereotypes, and asking adults for help.