This whimsically joyful picture book is an empowering children’s book that celebrates individuality across the rainbow-hued spectrum. With playful rhyme and exuberant illustrations, author-illustrator Chris Paul Rainbows Farias (they/them) celebrates the freedom to express yourself and the beauty of being exactly who you are.
Readers are invited to imagine a world where animals are hilariously limited in what they can do but humans are gloriously free to saunter, flaunt, and wear just what we want. From lipsticked llamas to tumbling giraffes, each page bursts with colorful chaos and loving affirmation.
At its heart, this is the book Chris wished they’d had as a kid growing up in a small town—one that gently opens the door to conversations about self-expression, gender, and being true to yourself.
“Guinea pigs should read this book as should all creatures. It contains important lessons in how we all need to be ourselves and that is actually such a wonderful thing! Powerful words for the pantless and the panted. I love it.”
“This book is so beautiful and so powerful. I can’t stop wondering what my life might have been had I found this in my school library. How much more powerful and beautiful I might have felt.”
“This book is a joyful, funny way to teach kids that their potential knows no limits! What a gift for parents who want to encourage fearless self-expression.”
“Guinea Pigs Don’t Wear Pants reminds us we can do, be, and wear whatever we love — self-expression is human. And as someone who owned two guinea pigs, I can confirm: they definitely do not wear pants.”
“Guinea Pigs Don’t Wear Pants has a critical yet simple message that accompanies the engaging animal illustrations, and that is: We are all in this world together and learning to accept and celebrate our differences and diversity is fundamental.”
“Fun book!”
“Guinea Pigs Don’t Wear Pants is an absolute joy, with a message that rings true for readers of any age; be true to yourself!”
“Guinea Pigs Don’t Wear Pants is a beautiful celebration of differences and self-expression, essential for tiny humans and grownups alike.”
“This beautifully illustrated book reminds children that who they are is enough and their identity never needs to fit in a box. It reassures young readers that they deserve to grow into whoever they want to be with confidence, and also offers adults the same reminder that true freedom of expression belongs to us all.”
“I know it’s for kids but I needed to hear this too.”
“Tears, smiles, and all the feels…inclusivity has never looked so gorgeous and the words are pure magic. Chris Paul Rainbows nailed it.”
“This is an absolute gem of a book! Such a fun, engaging, and age-appropriate way to honour and encourage freedom of expression for kids (and adults alike!). Chris’ book not only provides a clear message of self-acceptance, it also encourages its readers to extend that acceptance and inclusion to others.”
“I absolutely love this charming and profoundly powerful book. Its essential message, Be You, resonates long after its final page.”
“This book is adorable! It’s a wonderful way to teach children to embrace what makes them unique and special. I love it.”
“Cute animal lovers and queer picture book fans, rejoice! A delightful new gem is on its way: Guinea Pigs Don't Wear Pants is bursting with charm. With vibrant illustrations and playful rhymes, this joyful picture book celebrates the beauty of being different in the most fun and accessible way. Chris has crafted a story that's perfect as a read-aloud or for independent reading. Don't miss this quirky, heartwarming story!”
“Guinea Pigs Don’t Wear Pants by Chris Paul Rainbows is a joyous romp of self-expression, accepting and believing in yourself, and knowing you are special just the way you are. This is something every child needs.”