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Transcendent: A Memoir
Four-time Emmy-nominated actress Laverne Cox shares her journey as a transgender woman in Hollywood, confronting childhood trauma, shame, gender identity, her transition, body image issues, her search for romantic love, deep-seated feelings of unworthiness, and ultimately, healing.
Laverne Cox is a powerhouse in the fight for transgender rights and representation—but her path from a struggling trans actress to a cultural movement was anything but easy.
Surviving a childhood full of trauma, dealing with depression, and working at a drag restaurant in New York City for seven years, Laverne was turning forty and felt it was time to throw in the towel when it came to being a Hollywood star—then she booked the character of Sophia Burset in Orange is the New Black. Her world changed overnight.
She made history as the first openly transgender person nominated for a Primetime Emmy, starred in a range of high-profile shows, and became the first transgender person to win a Daytime Emmy as executive producer on Laverne Cox The T Word. A red-carpet fashion icon, podcast host, and fearless advocate, she uses her stardom to champion LGBTQ+ rights, whether on Hollywood’s biggest stages, her personal channels, or at Supreme Court hearings. And she’s only getting started.
In Transcendent, you will experience life in Laverne’s shoes, from her childhood abuse to making her big break, dealing with Hollywood bureaucracy, feeling lonely in a world that is unaccepting, and finding her voice through the chaos of it all. With behind-the-scenes stories and personal reflection, we can heal and fight for equality, right alongside Laverne.
Laverne Cox is a powerhouse in the fight for transgender rights and representation—but her path from a struggling trans actress to a cultural movement was anything but easy.
Surviving a childhood full of trauma, dealing with depression, and working at a drag restaurant in New York City for seven years, Laverne was turning forty and felt it was time to throw in the towel when it came to being a Hollywood star—then she booked the character of Sophia Burset in Orange is the New Black. Her world changed overnight.
She made history as the first openly transgender person nominated for a Primetime Emmy, starred in a range of high-profile shows, and became the first transgender person to win a Daytime Emmy as executive producer on Laverne Cox The T Word. A red-carpet fashion icon, podcast host, and fearless advocate, she uses her stardom to champion LGBTQ+ rights, whether on Hollywood’s biggest stages, her personal channels, or at Supreme Court hearings. And she’s only getting started.
In Transcendent, you will experience life in Laverne’s shoes, from her childhood abuse to making her big break, dealing with Hollywood bureaucracy, feeling lonely in a world that is unaccepting, and finding her voice through the chaos of it all. With behind-the-scenes stories and personal reflection, we can heal and fight for equality, right alongside Laverne.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 9, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
June 14, 2026
Vulnerable, moving, funny, and absolutely engrossing. This memoir is definitely a favorite and Laverne Cox opens up about harrowing moments from her childhood, the early years of pursuing acting while transitioning, and how her eventual rise to stardom occurred after years of work. I loved it and I hope this reaches people who don't have a lot of empathy for or understanding of trans people and the threat of violence they so often live with day to day. She also addresses some controversies in a way that felt genuine to me, though I don't know how everyone will respond. I'm glad I picked this up. I received a copy of this book for review from the publisher, all opinions are my own.
June 16, 2026
As a cisgender reader who strives to be a better ally, I know I will never fully understand what it means to be transgender. What I can do is listen, learn, and make space for transgender people to tell their own stories. Transcendent helped me do exactly that.
In this powerful memoir, Laverne Cox reflects on a life that has been filled with both beauty and pain, shame and joy, struggle and triumph. Growing up as a Black Christian child in Alabama, she wrestled with questions of identity, belonging, and self-acceptance long before the wider world knew her from Orange Is the New Black.
What I appreciated most was how thoughtfully Cox connects her personal experiences to the broader history of transgender people. She explores changing language, cultural attitudes, and the realities of living in a society that often misunderstands or marginalizes transgender communities. Throughout the book, it is clear she has spent years doing the difficult work of making meaning from her experiences and transforming painful memories into stories that can help others.
One of the memoir’s greatest strengths is its honesty. Cox doesn’t shy away from discussing shame, discrimination, or the difficult choices that can arise when opportunities for representation are limited. Her reflections on visibility, progress, and the complexity of representation are nuanced and thought-provoking.
At just 255 pages, this is a relatively short memoir, but it packs an incredible amount of insight into those pages. I also loved the photo section featuring images from her childhood through her rise to Hollywood and beyond.
More than anything, Transcendent reminded me that listening is one of the most important parts of allyship. If you’re looking to add a memoir by a transgender author to your reading list, this is an excellent place to start.
Content notes: transphobia, discrimination, bullying, violence, shame, discussions of mental health.
Who should read this?
* Readers looking to deepen their understanding of transgender experiences
* Fans of memoirs that blend personal storytelling with cultural history
* Anyone who admired Laverne Cox’s work in Orange Is the New Black
* Readers seeking meaningful Pride Month recommendations
Thank you to Gallery Books for the finished copy.
In this powerful memoir, Laverne Cox reflects on a life that has been filled with both beauty and pain, shame and joy, struggle and triumph. Growing up as a Black Christian child in Alabama, she wrestled with questions of identity, belonging, and self-acceptance long before the wider world knew her from Orange Is the New Black.
What I appreciated most was how thoughtfully Cox connects her personal experiences to the broader history of transgender people. She explores changing language, cultural attitudes, and the realities of living in a society that often misunderstands or marginalizes transgender communities. Throughout the book, it is clear she has spent years doing the difficult work of making meaning from her experiences and transforming painful memories into stories that can help others.
One of the memoir’s greatest strengths is its honesty. Cox doesn’t shy away from discussing shame, discrimination, or the difficult choices that can arise when opportunities for representation are limited. Her reflections on visibility, progress, and the complexity of representation are nuanced and thought-provoking.
At just 255 pages, this is a relatively short memoir, but it packs an incredible amount of insight into those pages. I also loved the photo section featuring images from her childhood through her rise to Hollywood and beyond.
More than anything, Transcendent reminded me that listening is one of the most important parts of allyship. If you’re looking to add a memoir by a transgender author to your reading list, this is an excellent place to start.
Content notes: transphobia, discrimination, bullying, violence, shame, discussions of mental health.
Who should read this?
* Readers looking to deepen their understanding of transgender experiences
* Fans of memoirs that blend personal storytelling with cultural history
* Anyone who admired Laverne Cox’s work in Orange Is the New Black
* Readers seeking meaningful Pride Month recommendations
Thank you to Gallery Books for the finished copy.
June 14, 2026
Once again I went blind into a memoir without knowing the celebrity or person and I had my heart broken, my head was shaking and my mind was fuming over everything that Laverne was put through. Laverne always seemed to keen to be her true self, even if the voices in her head tried to say otherwise at times and her mother (ugh) really made me work so hard to just be *accepted*. This world would be a vastly different place if Laverne did not keep her head high, the swagger in her steps and those goals set in front of her.
I am very grateful that in my life I have supportive parents, loving friends who are accepting of all and will never hesitate to stand up for what is right, but I know a lot of people do not have this.
Love is love, every body matters, support trans rights, black lives matter and seeking therapy is healthy.
This was a great read and the audiobook is also fabulous (also narrated by Laverne)
I am very grateful that in my life I have supportive parents, loving friends who are accepting of all and will never hesitate to stand up for what is right, but I know a lot of people do not have this.
Love is love, every body matters, support trans rights, black lives matter and seeking therapy is healthy.
This was a great read and the audiobook is also fabulous (also narrated by Laverne)
June 21, 2026
So I guess I rate memoirs now? To be a 54 year old Black trans woman in the U.S. is an accomplishment, and Laverne Cox has done so much more beyond surviving. She shares an honest, tough to read at times account of her life, and all that she has overcome and accomplished. For anyone who wonders how difficult daily life is a for a Black trans woman, please read this book to gain an ounce of understanding. Trans people have always been here, and they have never been the problem. Thank you to Libro FM for the ALC.
June 18, 2026
An absolute must-read. Laverne's story is incredible from her childhood trauma to her discovery of her talent to her perseverance in both love and career. A remarkable woman! I really enjoyed listening to her tell her own story in audiobook.
June 21, 2026
Went in blind to this memoir and left having learned so much more about Laverne! I loved her in Orange is the New Black and have enjoyed following her career since then, but going back to her childhood and learning more about the before added so much depth to my understanding of her!
June 21, 2026
I remember hoping for a Laverne Cox memoir when I started listening to them so I was jazzed when I found out she was releasing one and narrated the audio herself.
Laverne talks about growing up with her mom and twin brother, and how she was severely emotionally abused and neglected by their mom. Laverne was born male, and struggled with identity throughout her childhood. Laverne recounts always being “femme” - having feminine mannerisms and fashion sense. She used to thrift clothes from what she called “salvation Armani.” Laverne was bullied her whole life, verbally, physically and sexually abused by peers. At only 8, she was forced to talk to a therapist which she later found out was “conversion therapy.”
She did not transition until her 20s which is about the time she realized she wanted to be an actor. She was living in NYC (her dream) and was doing odd jobs in television, as well as working at Lucky Chengs, a drag queen show place. Laverne recounts her experiences with men over the years, most of them being physically or emotionally abusive. That last one though? DIABOLICAL.
Laverne was offered the role of Sophia in Orange is the New Black at age 41, becoming the first transgender person to be nominated for a prime time Emmy. Laverne reflects on her “big break” and the doors it opened for her; she also talks about how the industry typecasted her for not only being trans but also Black, and how oitnb refused to make her a series regular.
So much more I could touch on here, Laverne is a well known advocate for lgbtq rights, was a pillar in changing how trans people are interviewed and has gone on to work on several other projects.
Laverne talks about growing up with her mom and twin brother, and how she was severely emotionally abused and neglected by their mom. Laverne was born male, and struggled with identity throughout her childhood. Laverne recounts always being “femme” - having feminine mannerisms and fashion sense. She used to thrift clothes from what she called “salvation Armani.” Laverne was bullied her whole life, verbally, physically and sexually abused by peers. At only 8, she was forced to talk to a therapist which she later found out was “conversion therapy.”
She did not transition until her 20s which is about the time she realized she wanted to be an actor. She was living in NYC (her dream) and was doing odd jobs in television, as well as working at Lucky Chengs, a drag queen show place. Laverne recounts her experiences with men over the years, most of them being physically or emotionally abusive. That last one though? DIABOLICAL.
Laverne was offered the role of Sophia in Orange is the New Black at age 41, becoming the first transgender person to be nominated for a prime time Emmy. Laverne reflects on her “big break” and the doors it opened for her; she also talks about how the industry typecasted her for not only being trans but also Black, and how oitnb refused to make her a series regular.
So much more I could touch on here, Laverne is a well known advocate for lgbtq rights, was a pillar in changing how trans people are interviewed and has gone on to work on several other projects.
June 22, 2026
This book was incredible. I seriously couldn’t put it down. I’ve always been a huge fan of Laverne Cox, but now, learning her story, I’m even more so. She has been through so much, but despite that, never lost her grace and poise. I love how determined she is and how she has made such a wonderful life for herself- later in life. She didn’t start booking things till she was in her 30’s and as someone who’s turning 30 this year, it makes me feel like I’m doing ok- and I’m not a failure as a woman for getting started later. This book was a fantastic read- highly recommend!!
June 18, 2026
After hearing her speak at a conference, I was excited to read her memoir! In her book, she goes deep into her past and the way multigenerational trauma impacted everything in her life. From always believing she was the problem to understanding how that perception destroys your sense of self, the author takes an intersectional approach to her life. With the support of friends, she begins a trajectory never seen before all through her trust in education, hard work, and authentic self.
June 22, 2026
Laverne’s interrogation of her story is worthy of a standing ovation. Through her deep vulnerability, she provides a language for so many of the parts of ourselves that all of us should examine. What a heroic tale of the very human journey to self-worth, self-discovery, and self-love. This is a worthy read that, without a doubt, will be the catalyst for healing for so many people. Highly recommended for anyone seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of themselves.
June 23, 2026
Powerful!
I’ve been a fan of Laverne’s since 2008, and after reading about everything she’s been through the more respect and admiration I have for her. I highly recommend this book for any parent of a transgender child, you might not be able to understand what your kid’s going through, but stand by them, and love them like no one else can. Much love to you, Laverne, thank you for sharing your story with us.
I’ve been a fan of Laverne’s since 2008, and after reading about everything she’s been through the more respect and admiration I have for her. I highly recommend this book for any parent of a transgender child, you might not be able to understand what your kid’s going through, but stand by them, and love them like no one else can. Much love to you, Laverne, thank you for sharing your story with us.
June 18, 2026
No spoilers. This book made me feel all the pain of childhood that people who don't fit feel growing up. It hit too close to home. It's probably a generational thing. I almost gave up reading it twice just because it reminded me of painful times.
I read this book from a curiosity of a transperson's experience. I have not seen any of her work, and I should change that.
I read this book from a curiosity of a transperson's experience. I have not seen any of her work, and I should change that.
Review of advance copy
Like many others, I was introduced to Laverne via her role as Sophia on the Netflix original series Orange is the New Black. Her character gave many a glimpse into the trans perspective and why/how someone would transition.
“Our entire society had been programmed through the media that when you hear someone is trans, you ask about their genitals.”
This! It’s normal to be curious about something new/foreign to you, but don’t do this - it’s weird.
In her roles as well as in real life, Laverne is a staunch advocate and activist for the LGBTQ community. She stands ten toes down in everything she does, with grace and class. I loved hearing more about her background and personal life in her own words and with her own voice. It is phenomenally executed and a story that is sure to inspire.
🎧 The audio was brilliantly narrated by Laverne Cox herself, which is always a no-brainer for me to go the audio route. Highly recommend.
Thank you Simon Audio/LibroFM for the ALC!
“Our entire society had been programmed through the media that when you hear someone is trans, you ask about their genitals.”
This! It’s normal to be curious about something new/foreign to you, but don’t do this - it’s weird.
In her roles as well as in real life, Laverne is a staunch advocate and activist for the LGBTQ community. She stands ten toes down in everything she does, with grace and class. I loved hearing more about her background and personal life in her own words and with her own voice. It is phenomenally executed and a story that is sure to inspire.
🎧 The audio was brilliantly narrated by Laverne Cox herself, which is always a no-brainer for me to go the audio route. Highly recommend.
Thank you Simon Audio/LibroFM for the ALC!
June 11, 2026
heartfelt and heartbreaking
What an amazing story of Laverne’s life. Parts had me saddened by the events the formed her life and others had me laughing. What a wonderful storyteller.
What an amazing story of Laverne’s life. Parts had me saddened by the events the formed her life and others had me laughing. What a wonderful storyteller.
June 18, 2026
As far as life stories… remarkable. She’s had such a tough life and has worked so hard to overcome obstacles most folks will never face. The writing was nothing spectacular, but the honesty was just that.
June 21, 2026
I devoured this audiobook. I remember seeing Laverne on Orange is the New Black as a teen and loving her character. I loved her story and the way in which she understands flaws she may have, takes ownership, and also encourages others to understand that we’re all human. Definitely recommend!!!
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February 12, 2026review text for 3986
June 13, 2026
Really enjoyed this memoir
June 14, 2026
More like 3.75 but rounding up bc I really did like this book. Hearing her talking about the college speaking tour was surreal, I was in that audience at UAB hanging on her every word.
June 15, 2026
Loved this book! What a courageous woman Laverne is. This book really encompasses how resilient and tenacious people can be to attain their aspirations. Very inspiring!
June 16, 2026
Love her, and although her story is difficult at times it is what made her the delicious, exquisite woman she is.
June 17, 2026
4.5⭐️
June 18, 2026
I rarely read celebrity memoirs. I’m glad I read this. It’s honest and raw. Not a fluff Hollywood story, but a true accounting of Laverne’s life - good and bad.
June 19, 2026
I love her! Reading about her past made me cry out loud.
Can’t wait to see what she does next!!
Can’t wait to see what she does next!!
June 20, 2026
Interesting
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews