When You Look Out the Window: How Phyllis Lyon and Del Martin Built a Community

In a book that's less biography than portrait of change, Pitman (This Day in June) imagines LGBTQ activists Phyllis Lyon and Del Martin looking out their window at the city of San Francisco. Readers won't learn much about the couple from the primary narrative, which contrasts the past ("So many women who didn't have rights") and present ("We see open doors. We see women who can do anything") while highlighting local landmarks and buildings. In patchwork collages, Lyles (Lucy and Lila) conjures a bustling, inclusive city. Extensive information about Lyon and Martin's activism, marriage equality, and San Francisco itself (contained in a readers' guide) offers a useful overview of LGBTQ history and women's rights. Ages 4-8. (June)

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"Extensive information about Lyon and Martin's activism, marriage equality, and San Francisco itself (contained in a readers' note) offers a useful overview of LGBTQ history and women's rights." —Publishers Weekly

"A great conversation starter and a rare non-fiction book about LGBTQ equality for the younger age group." —Bay Windows

"A unique and entertaining way to introduce children ages 4 to 8 to untold stories in history while also being a clever tribute to two notable women." —Midwest Book Review

"A refreshing picture book biography of two prominent active lesbians, Phyllis Lyon and Del Martin. Looking out their window, they see how San Francisco has changed over the years since they first stepped in the city. A Reader's Note gives additional information why these places are significant and how Lyon and Martin contributed to LGBTQ- and particularly lesbian- activism. Great backmatter material also showcases why reading about LGBTQ history is important." —Chronicles of a Children's Book Writer

"We need these histories, and I'm glad we have such a creative and capable author bringing them to life." —RaiseThemRighteous

When You Look Out the Window
"The text in this book is effortless, and it shows children how if you see a problem, you have the power to fix it and make your community a better place for everyone." —No Time for Flash Cards