Jacob's Room to Choose
Jacob, the beloved character who made national headlines by wearing a dress to school, is back in an encouraging story about gender expression.
When Jacob goes to the boys’ bathroom he is chased out because the boys think he looks like a girl because of the way he is dressed.
His classmate, Sophie, has a similar experience when she tries to go to the girls’ bathroom.
When their teacher finds out what happened, Jacob and Sophie, with the support of administration, lead change at their school as everyone discovers the many forms of gender expression and how to treat each other with respect.
Sarah and Ian Hoffman live in the San Francisco Bay Area with their two children.
Visit Sarah & Ian Hoffman for more about their books and parenting experiences.
Chris Case has been illustrating books and magazines since 2008. He lives in Vermont.
You can see more of his work at Chris Case Illustration website.
- As mentioned in The Wall Street Journal
- 2020 ALA Rainbow Book List Selection
- Recommended by Psychology Today
This book is a necessary and well-crafted addition to the growing world of LGBTQ+ themed picture books.
—Adrien Kade Sdao
An empowering and uplifting tale for any teacher to read to their kids, Jacob’s Room to Choose is the perfect icebreaker for young students to have meaningful conversations about gender identity and community.
—The Advocate
The students set out to create new, inclusive bathroom signs: "I have to pee, so let me be!" one reads. Ms. Reeves just might be the real star in the story, as she models how limiting traditional views of gender can be.
—Publishers Weekly
So many, many people need to read this book. Kids adults, politicians, administrators — there is not one person in this world that doesn't need to digest and ponder the less of this sweet, simple, and very necessary (unfortunately) book.
—Kiss the Book
Their teacher's lesson shows that there are more than two ways to dress — not all boys wear short hair, and not all girls wear long hair or dresses. Even their own classroom represents a spectrum of expressions.
—Kirkus Reviews
Like the first book about Jacob, the message is about acceptance. Simple lyrical writing introduces the setting and the characters from the opening lines: "The carpet was warm. The bunnies were funny. Jacob and Sophie loved library time." And the message is vital, especially for this young age group. The Hoffman's book comes from their hearts.
—Oregon Coast Youth Book Preview Center
Kids need the tools to understand gender nonconforming peers. With books like this, minds open, perspectives blossom and everyone has more choices. Sophie and Jacob's teacher is paying attention and sees an opportunity to create a more inclusive classroom and school where everyone's differences are celebrated. A progressive book that is forward thinking and acting to solve problems with new solutions.
—Jesica Sweedler DeHart, Librarian and Influencer, @WanderingBookseller
- Helping Kids Understand Gender Nonconformity: An Interview with Jacob (PDF, 505KB)
- Jacob’s Coloring Sheet (PDF, 209KB)
Download a printable coloring page to bring Jacob and Sophie to life with your favorite patterns and colors. - Jacob’s Sign Activity Page (PDF, 156KB)
Download this printable activity sheet to make signs and hang them up like Jacob and Sophie! - Note to Parents: An extensive note to parents, including a list of helpful resources (PDF, 246KB)
