This content analysis research examined how lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) individuals and issues are represented in elementary-level trade books. The data pool included every LGBTQ-based trade book with intended audiences of primary (grades K-2) and intermediate (grades 3-5) elementary students. Trade books were analyzed by a range of both open and axial coding questions. Findings included main characters' demography, sexuality, stage of sexual identity development, and various ancillary elements, such as connection to the LGBTQ community, relationship with religion, interactions with non-LGBTQ individuals, and the challenges and contested terrain that LGBTQ individuals must traverse. Examination of the intended audience added nuance to findings. There appeared to be no clear relationship between books' dates of publication and patterns of representation of LGBTQ individuals and themes. This research contributes to previous scholarship that explored LGBTQ-based fiction for secondary students and close readings of primary-level trade books.