The Boy in the Dress

David Walliams is an award winner children's writer, whose hilarious books have become bestsellers and instant classics around the world.

Books can provide support and affirmation for kids going through something difficult, or introduce them to complex topics like identity and sexuality in an age-appropriate way. So here's a round-up of great middle grade books that deal with tough topics in an encouraging and hopeful way.

From the excitment of a first crush, to rainbow families, to stories of kids exploring and understanding their own gender, these books provide important representation for young readers.