Téo loves to dance, whether it's the cumbia with Papí, the bhangra with Amma, or ballet class with Ms. Lila. He also loves the way his tutu makes him feel, inside and out. But when it comes time to decide which outfit to wear in the big dance recital--a sparkly tutu or shimmering silver pants--Téo wonders if being his most authentic self on stage will put him too much in the spotlight.
Maryann Jacob Macias wrote Téo's Tutu because of her love of dance and feeling comfortable. Everyone should feel comfortable doing the thing they love, and Maryann uses this charming work to encourage everyone to be who they are. Maryann comes to Busboys to read from her book, and tell us about what inspired her to write about the courage and authenticity of young people. Grab your copy and read along at Bookshop.org!
Maryann Jacob Macias is a graduate of the City College of New York, CUNY and the Solstice MFA Low-Residency Program at Pine Manor College. This is her first picture book.
Alea Marley is a picture book illustrator. Born in the UK with Barbadian roots, she is currently based in North England.
This event is free and open to all, accessible through our Facebook and Youtube pages (@busboysandpoets).
The program will begin at 4:00PM with an introduction from a member of our team. There will be time for Q&A before the end of the program. Copies of TEO’S TUTU are available for purchase on bookshop.org
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Praise for Téo’s Tutu
“This lyrical book bursts with sincerity without ever feeling preachy or forced…A gender-affirming picture book with a lovable, indomitable star.”
– Kirkus, starred review
“Written with poise and grace, Macias’s gentle story is filled with warmth from the joys of self-expression and calm assurance found in loving support.”
– School Library Journal
”Macias's gentle story features a winning gender-nonconforming, biracial protagonist and his supportive adults (parents, teacher); Marley's lively illustrations acknowledge Téo's nervousness about being judged and celebrate his joy and bravery when he's true to himself.”
– The Horn Book
Téo's Tutu was chosen as one of Amazon’s Best Books of 2021 for 3-5 year olds and selected for the 2022 National Council for the Social Studies – Children’s Book Council Notable Social Studies Trade Books List!
