Children's books on acceptance, both old and new

There's something especially magical about a book that makes you feel like the author gets and supports you, particularly when you're a kid.

Here are two pieces about such books — one with a proven track record in that department, the other with lofty goals to do the same.

• Frog and Toad knew I was gay before I did: BookRiot contributor Jeffrey Davies reflects on how he read and re-read Arnold Lobel’s picture books about two male characters who unabashedly love each other and found a comfort that he could only later fully articulate and understand.

• Matthew McConaughey's book Just Because is judgment-free: The actor spoke with NPR's A Martinez about his new picture book that he hopes will inspire conversations between adults and kids, but also understanding and empathy.