Educational Publisher Mason Crest is releasing a series of books on LGBT topics for middle school students.
The 15 book series The Gallup’s Modern Guide to Gay, Lesbian & Transgender Life [1] will debut in the fall exploring different aspects of LGBT life. Topics will range from the importance of positive role models to social and political stigma to bullying.
[2]
The books are aimed at middle school students of any sexual orientation or gender identity.
“Forty years ago, homosexuality was considered a psychological disorder,” said Philip Cohen, CEO of Mason Crest. “Today it’s becoming an accepted part of our society, no longer something hidden and taboo. Homosexuality has come out of the closet and we are proud to be the pioneers of this new series to educate young adults in a positive tone.”
The senior consulting editor of the series, James Sears said, “By teaching young people…that gender and sexuality cover a spectrum of expression, we extinguish the notion of difference or ‘queerness’ that fuels bigotry, intolerance, and hatred. Books in this series will allow educators to work with all the kids; onlookers, bullies and victims to create a larger sense of acceptance of sexual orientation.”
According to the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network’s (GLSEN [3]) 2007 National School Climate Survey, only 23 percent of middle school students reported that their school libraries included LGBT-related resources. Just six percent reported that LGBT topics were included in textbooks or required reading.
Sears said the books will help students learn from different perspectives which would “allow kids of all sexual and gender orientations to gain a greater acceptance for peer differences.”
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