Breathe: Journeys to Healthy Binding

by Maia Kobabe, Sarah Peitzmeier

A graphic guide to chest binding with real-life stories and research-backed advice from bestselling Gender Queer author Maia Kobabe and University of Michigan professor Sarah Peitzmeier.

Breathe arose from the need for an evidence-based resource for folks considering chest binding as gender-affirming care. Its original form was a 32-page digital-only 'zine, but Peitzmeier and Kobabe saw potential for reaching a wider audience with an expanded version with more art and more exploration of what the research really shows about binding, designed to be easily readable as a printed book. This is the result.

To create Breathe, Peitzmeier and her research team interviewed many people of different ages and backgrounds about their journeys with binding, and then she and Kobabe combined excerpts from those interviews with evidence-based resources on binding into this extremely accessible book. The result is both a practical resource for trans and nonbinary folks and an engaging and perspective-broadening read for anyone interested in what it means to be on a journey of expressing one's gender in ways that are joyful, healthy, and affirming.

Genres: Graphic Novels, LGBT, Nonfiction, Queer, Comics, Transgender, Gender

64 pages, Paperback

First published May 7, 2024

About the author

Maia Kobabe is a trans author, a voracious reader, a kpop fan, and a daydreamer. You can learn an astonishing number of intimate details about em in GENDER QUEER: A MEMOIR and in eir short comics and writing published by The New Yorker, The Nib, NPR, Time Magazine, The Washington Post and in many print anthologies. GENDER QUEER won a Stonewall Honor and an Alex Award from the American Library Association in 2020. It was also the most challenged book in the United States in 2021, 2022, and 2023. Maia's second book is BREATHE: JOURNEYS TO HEALTHY BINDING written with Dr Sarah Peitzmeier (Dutton, 2024). Eir next book is OPTING OUT, a middle grade graphic novel with Swati Lucky Srikumar (Scholastic Graphix, 2026).

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resources for fighting book bans

Reviews

[Tara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really great introduction to binding for teens (and all ages, whether trans or parents of trans kids). It's short, but has tons of information. I really loved the personal stories that were shared- I could have used more of those, but recognize this is for a younger audience so I appreciate that it's condensed. As a nonbinary adult, I would have loved to have this book in my youth. And as an adult, I've considered buying a binder numerous times, so this was good information for me as well. I really loved the overall message of giving information so that people can make the best decision for themselves, and that there's no right or wrong way to do it, although some are safer than others, so this book is much needed. There are also some stretches, reflection questions, and an activity to use to work through what works well for each person. Really great overall, and I'm glad this book exists.

Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for the e-arc. Can't wait to see this in full color.

[Lara · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a non-binary person I was so happy to receive this arc. I’ve spent a lot of time researching healthy ways to bind so seeing this book made me so happy.

I really enjoyed getting different perspectives from other trans individuals who do bind. I think it’s important to talk about ways that we can bind in a healthy way and the damage that can be done if we bind improperly (ie. with ace badages). It touches on a lot of really important measures to make sure you are keeping your body/lungs healthy while binding and the importance of taking breaks.

I also adored the illustrations, it makes the book feel more approachable especially with such an important topic.

Thank you to Penguin Teen for the gifted eARC

[Bek (MoonyReadsByStarlight) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐️ I loved this! I loved that it talks about binding safety and shares a variety of people's experiences with binding. But more than that, as someone who has done human sciences research, I was so stoked to see this as a mode for presenting research! It's accessible to so many people, you're sharing the stories that people want shared, and contextualizing it all with practical information and ways to reflect. I love this and I want to see more like it (and I want to make things like this tbh). There are some things that I wish they went into more, but over all, this was cool!

[Lou Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Youtube video live: https://youtu.be/tbozy2Wy7qI?si=QkIFy...

Final verdict:
I love this book !!!! And I know this is a book I will keep going back to...

I found D's experience the most relatable. It was brilliant to see how he had made his first binder, I made my first one out of similar things. I did also like A's journey. I found all of the stories had elements in which were relatable. I think binding is a brilliant way of coping with living in a body that is difficult to understand and live with as someone on the trans spectrum. Whether you are nonbinary, genderfluid or transgender.

I really like how this book also looked at people from a variety of backgrounds and ages. I'm a bit of an old soul even though I'm 25, so D resonated the most with me. It feels good to see how everyone adapted to their needs. The tips and tricks section was super useful, and I will be returning to reread this again and again.

Sections also in this book:
- Journal Prompts
- Reflection questions

Before reading notes:
I need to get this off my chest: I was so excited when this finally arrived, I didn't realise it would need to be imported from America either and given the state of the world I'm suprised I wasn't charged extra for it either as I'm from the U.K. Furthermore, when I opened this book, it was one thing after another.

I wasn't too sure what to expect and I still need to read it but I broke down crying when I opened the physical book. It is slim, the paper it is printed on is very similar to newspaper, which is a comfort and a texture thing for me, something not many books do, nor print on. I didn't realise Maia had collaberated with someone on with this book, and that someone has done research on binding, as well as worked with a university professor to create this book. This touched my heart. Sarah Peitzmeier. I will need to remember that name and look into more articles and see if they have other things available to look at.

I want to clarify that I am someone who has been binding since 12. Initially for me it was crossdressing before realising it felt natural and comfortable because puberty hit me wrong. It just hit me so wrong. Having an accessible guide which is sleek and so beautiful is one thing, knowing there are other trans folk out there even better- but the think that hits me the most about this book is there are people who care enough to actively research binding. Binding isn't a new thing, I used to be obsessed with corsetry, and when I discovered binders for trans folk, everything just felt right.

In a world where it feels like there is so much hate, having a book like this just exist doesn't just feel like acceptance, or revolutionary. It helps contribute to the notion we deserve to exist. We have always existed. And we will continue to do so. I am so thankful to everyone who has contributed to the production of this book, and if anyone reading this see's this- I haven't even read the book yet, but please consider, if this is in your to be read- buying and reading this book. It's more than just a book for people like me: It's support. It's hope. It's research.

This book when I flicked through contains binding stories which I'm also very nervous and excited to read as a trans person, but this book, it is very slim. It is short, but it is a book which is more than just a book.

Please consider reading it. It's not just support. It's not just allyship. It also helps support research I believe, research which I didnt' know existed, but am so glad someone, out there- took the time to do and publish. I would love book recommendations on this topic. I would love other fact based books on this specific topic because I don't see much of it and as someone who struggles mentally with a lot of the hate and catcalling I experience from strangers, this book is more than a book to me.

It means a future. It means I'm not alone. It means that there are others and always will be and I hope the author continues to publish works like this.

[thosemeddlingkids · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really excited to read the final version of this one! This arc copy currently is black & white and has some roughness to it. Great base though.

This was a really neat graphic novel idea - part info on binding, safety, and some stretching exercises to safely bind. Other part interviews of folks sharing their experiences with binding, and it's great seeing so much variety in the interviewees.

Looking forward to reading the final product for this one, and if there will be a bit more statistics/data elements included from Sarah Peitzmeler!

Also, as a nonbinary person, it's so awesome reading more about other's experiences with something in my own routine, and validating as heck hearing similar feelings and emotions towards our bodies. Love it!


ARC provided by Netgalley.

[sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

i love being queer! and also this is so important and such a good intro to binding and woah im so happy this exists for people now

[Wilma (Enby Reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Part memoir anthology, part medical advice, part workbook, this graphic pocketbook shows us how to chest bind safely for body and mind.

I liked how this book has a little bit of everything. The inclusion of graphic storytelling through interviews with a varied cast of people, was great as an initial intrigue and basis to introducing exercises to alleviate pain and discomfort, to then transition into statistics and a workbook for the reader to reflect on their journey and practices.

It is excellent that a small and concise book like this exists, it can be so helpful and validating if this is a journey you're going through. Not to mention, bringing awareness to health complications that can come with unsafe binding practices. Your physical health is important.

I wish the book mentioned how safe binding practices also increase your chances of top surgery scars and healing going well. I think this is something not many think about and know, and could also be a good motivator to take care of your health. BUT it's a small book and doesn't assume top surgery is something a trans masc person wants, which I really appreciate!

Thank you to NetGalley and Dutton Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I also want to mention that the format of this ARC was a pain in the ass to read and it affected my reading experience, and stopped me from getting a full impression of what the printed work will look like, and be read as.

[C.J. Ellison]

Maia Kobabe and Dr. Sarah Peitzmeier’s BREATHE: JOURNEYS TO HEALTHY BINDING is an illustrated (guide) for teenage audiences, on how to bind your chest in a safe and healthy way—through stories from doctors and experienced adults.

Based on the recent book bans with Kobabe’s most popular novel (an adult memoir, I should note) I do have fears for the reception of this book by particular audiences, especially since this one IS geared towards teens.
However, I can say with certainty for those audiences a few things: this book is appropriate for teens; it does not try to convince teens to be trans; it does not try to convince teens to bind their chests; it does not try to convince teens to get surgery. It simply explains that binding is an option, but if it’s something you want, how it can affect your body if you do it unsafely, and what to do or know to prevent any harm.
People will bind their chests whether or not they have the proper materials or helpful information. I firmly believe having easily understandable and accessible information like this book, will help a lot of people.

Thank you NetGalley and Dutton Books for providing a review copy.

[Sunny Carito · Rating 5 out of 5]

Informative, empathic and a perfect blend of narrative and guidance. While I am not interested in binding myself, this helped me understand the ways it can be used, the reasons, and how it can be part of a positive part of person's life. The individual anecdotes were very inclusive of different ages, choices, and body types. The many references to dangerous choices teens often make when they feel a need to hide binding from their parents make me wish more parents would read it and find a way to make information about binding part of general puberty health curriculums. Same for health professionals in regards to the hesitancy of many people to talk to someone about physical symptoms.

I received a free copy of this from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Sarah S · Rating 4 out of 5]

As someone who knows only a little about the topic, this felt like a solid and welcoming introduction. I think the interactive sections inviting a reader to explore their own experience with binding will also be very helpful for some readers. This book is marketed to a teen audience, but I think adults will also appreciate it. My only complaint is that it's a bit text heavy for a comic, but Kobabe's illustrations definitely helped to make the text more human and approachable. It might've felt too clinical otherwise.

[karissa✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

such a good resource! so important!!

[Mary Shyne · Rating 5 out of 5]

An essential source of information for people who bind or are considering binding.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think I would've been the target audience of this book 15-20 years ago. For that reason alone, I'm delighted that it exists now.

It's a quick and engaging read, composed of personal stories from trans and nonbinary people; scientific information on what happens to a body during binding; and practical tips on how to manage potential symptoms.

The book feels neutral, clear, and non-judgmental in tone, but some of the stories do feel harrowing to read, since binding can be high-risk when done badly. The most important takeaway for parents of minors who bind is that shame will drive this practice underground, and that's when binding tends to be more harmful.

[danielle]

very nice and affirming!! great research & tips included!

[Francesca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Got this for my partner, but decided to vet it first. The art is beautiful and it is thoughtful and informative!

[Spencer · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great, short book for people who bind as well as people who don't bind, but have someone in their life who does. While other forms of binding such as trans tape are mentioned, the focus of this book is definitely on safely binding with chest binders.

I loved reading the personal stories and greatly appreciated the inclusion of stretches/exercises.

I would have liked to see more tips and tricks; advice on getting in and out of binders, finding the right binder for your body and chest size, putting on and taking off trans tape, etc. but I understand that this is generally for younger audiences so a condensed introductory book might be best.

I wish a resource like this existed when I was younger!

[Pujashree · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is more of an informational handout, complete with worksheets and infographics, rather than a graphic novel or even a collection of stories. There are only a handful of first hand accounts, but largely as a primer to the data analysis of many more stories that we are not actually given from a first hand POV. Definitely useful for those considering binding or navigating binding already. But I suppose from the author of Gender Queer, I expected something more narratively powerful.

[Tori · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want this book to be accessible to all people! It’s technically a teen book, but I think so many adults would benefit from reading this. If you work with teens I think this should be required reading. Its short concise graphic novel format makes it easy to access.

[Lisa Boyd · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5.
Negatives: this book had a lot of potential but used unnecessary profanity (IMHO). It is also very brief, which might have been intentional. I would have enjoyed more. More stories, more health information, and resources.

Pros: I love the health information that is included on the risks of binding and the self-reflection prompts for folks who are considering binding/parents, as well as loved ones who care for those who do/might.

I am not looking forward to book challenges on this title. I believe that every reader their book, and every book their reader. As the book says, most injuries and adverse side effects from this approach to dysmorphia come from a lack of education and the feeling of needing to hide from loved ones/others.

To the folks who disagree with this practice, consider an analogy of a binder to high-heeled shoes and back pain that folks deal with regularly for aesthetics and self-confidence. This is similar. I never plan to bind nor encourage it (the same goes for high-heeled shoes). Still, I think that if someone else feels the need, there are resources like this book to help people make good choices and encourage them to talk with health professionals and other professionals to assist them in living the healthiest life possible, inside and out.

I know this book will cause a lot of negative press, but by doing so, it will enhance viewership for people who might not have had this book (or even ANY books, gasp) on their radar when struggling with their identities and self-perceptions. Perhaps if we spent more time listening to and supporting people instead of arguing with them about our ideals, people would find easier ways to affirm themselves and live the best life possible. Until society shifts, we have books like this to start conversations and provide insight into other folks' worlds. Love your neighbor.

[Vayl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this graphic novel. It follows the stories of four individuals of diverse identities and ages, encapsulating the findings of the authors' research on the use of binders within the transgender community. Each narrative delves into the motivations behind their decisions and the journey they embarked on to find the correct tools to manage a safe practice. They offer a range of physical and mental health exercises to provide healthy ways of finding what works best and how to detect when you need to change strategies. Lastly, the novel presents the research results regarding the physical consequences versus the mental health benefits of binding.

The information was incredibly insightful and beautifully articulated. I believe everyone should read this at some point, especially young readers eager to understand how to feel better in their own bodies.

I received a free copy from NetGalley. This is an honest review.

[Gabriel Noel · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC given by NetGalley for Honest Review

A short but sweet collection of stories, science, and self-help about binding safely. This is a great tool for those who wish to start binding and people just wanting to be more informed. Kobabe's illustrations are clean and informative and pair well with Dr. Peitzmeier's words. The collection could be longer in my opinion, I found that I wanted to hear more stories from people who bind as I got close to the end. There's a great section at the end about exercises and best practices which makes this a very practical book for any place that serves trans people to keep on hand.

Overall, though the graphic novel was shorter than I expected, it was a lovely and informative read!

[Nikolaj · Rating 4 out of 5]

As someone who can’t bind for health reasons, this was a difficult read for my dysphoria, however for those who can bind, I think it’s a great resource to start with. It’s a little short but it covers a lot of aspects of healthy binding, which is very important. It was inclusive of different aspects of binding as well, not just a specific gender or type of binding, which was really refreshing to see.

[Ravi Reis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing. It was so powerful to read about the different perspectives and lived experiences around binding. Many people assume binding is just wearing something tight on their chest, without realizing the real health impacts it can have.
This book makes it clear that isn’t true, while also offering practical options and solutions for trans and non-binary people who want to bind in safer ways. It’s an important resource that helps protect and care for our community ❤️‼️

[Michael Perez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Glad to see a LGBTQ graphic novel that goes into more depth over a specific issue rather than general information. I would have liked to see more of the amazing art that Kobabe had in Gender Queer, but this is still an important resource, and I learned a lot about something I've never had to interact with.

[Jennifer Ingle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent resource on the topic of chest binding for any folks who may be considering binding, already binding, and/or supporting a friend or family member on their binding journey. Also just a great resource to engage with to become more educated on gender affirming care, be a better ally, and gain empathy.

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

This collection of stories are all about people's journeys with binding. Even though this is a pretty short book, I really enjoyed reading everyone's stories. I also like that there are journal prompts and other fun things to do towards the back of the book.

[DaniPhantom · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve only ever debated binding once or twice, with just opting to go with a regular sports bra. It is so so refreshing to see a book that promotes healthy binding, shows people of multiple gender identities binding, and what it means to people.

[Marco Antonio · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought the content was invaluable. I also love a graphic novel presentation of non-fiction subjects. I, however, did not like the font size. If it could be more spread out, not sure if more pages would be in order.

[HaileyAnne · Rating 5 out of 5]

A comic that outlines a study on psychological effects (both good and bad) of binding in the trans/nonbinary community.
Excuse me while I cry.

[Zee]

This was great, though I'll have to reread the last but to really retain it.