And Tango Makes Three

This is a true story.

That’s the part that unsettles people.

And Tango Makes Three tells the real-life story of Roy and Silo, two male penguins at the Central Park Zoo who form a bond, build a nest, and—with a little help from their zookeeper—raise a baby penguin named Tango.

Told with warmth and simplicity, this picture book presents a family built on care, commitment, and love. There’s no agenda here, no explanation required—just animals doing what comes naturally: showing up for one another.

It’s gentle. It’s affirming. And it trusts children to understand love when they see it.

Why it’s been banned

And Tango Makes Three is one of the most frequently challenged children’s books in the U.S., often banned for:

• Depicting a same-sex couple
• Portraying a nontraditional family structure
• Being labeled “inappropriate” despite its age-appropriate content

In reality, it’s challenged for acknowledging that loving families can look different and always have.

Why we love it

• Because it’s calm and matter-of-fact.
• Because it’s based on real events.
• Because it shows that inclusion doesn’t have to be loud to be powerful.

This book doesn’t argue. It simply exists. And that’s exactly why it matters.

Perfect for

Young readers • families of all kinds • classrooms and libraries • LGBTQ+ kids and allies • anyone who believes children deserve stories rooted in kindness and truth