So Devin Wore a Skirt | Shireen Lalji, Lucy Fleming

'Gentle, adorable picture book about acceptance.' – The Guardian

'Upbeat affirmation for any child who’s fretted about feeling different.' – Kirkus Reviews

So Devin Wore a Skirt is an empowering picture book for young children about the importance of family acceptance and the joy of being true to yourself. 

Devin’s family are all dressed up for Nanabapa’s Big Birthday, and everyone looks fabulous! But Devin doesn’t have anything special to wear. Then, he spots one of his sister’s skirts lying on her bed – it’s the deepest blue, and it shimmers in the light. So, Devin puts the skirt on . . . 

. . . and it feels amazing! But what will everyone say? Devin hides the skirt under a disguise to finally enjoy the party and dance the night away. But all this dancing makes Devin VERY hot! So, he takes off his disguise and reveals the skirt. 

All eyes are on him – but in steps Nanabapa. He takes Devin’s hand, twirls him round in his beautiful skirt . . . and the party continues in full swing! 

In So Devin Wore a Skirt, debut author Shireen Lalji and New York Times bestselling artist Lucy Fleming have created a glowing story about being true to yourself – encouraging readers, young and old, to express their identity in the way that feels right. 

Shireen Lalji writes stories that celebrate the diversity of children’s lives and family experiences while gently challenging cultural stereotypes. After spending twenty years in teaching and educational roles, she is now a school librarian. Shireen lives with her husband and two wonderful teenagers. Her debút book, So Devin Wore a Skirt, was published in 2025.

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