What do you think?
Rate this book
Trans+: Love, Sex, Romance, and Being You
Trans+: Love, Sex, Romance, and Being You by Karen Rayne, PhD, and Katherine Gonzales, MBA, is an all-inclusive, uncensored guide for teens who are transgender, nonbinary, gender-nonconforming, or gender-fluid. TRANS+ answers all your questions, easy and hard, about gender and covers mental health, physical health and reproduction, transitioning, relationships, sex, and life as a trans or nonbinary individual. It's full of essential information you need -- and want -- to know and includes real-life stories from teens like you!
304 pages, Hardcover
First published August 27, 2019
42 people are currently reading
2017 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
June 24, 2020
* I am so honoured to have gotten this on Net Galley*
I would like to preface this review by saying that I am not transgender, so please do not assign my opinion equal or higher weight than those that are since it is not my lived experience.
So this book makes me want to cry in the best way. I haven't cried yet but I think I might be getting very close. I chose this book because I am trying to be a better ally and, because of some physical disabilities, I cannot physically do supportive things like go to rallies etc so most of my advocacy occurs online.
I cannot stress enough how wonderful this book is-- the interwoven testimonials with the information about different terms and medical criteria is so brilliantly done. I am one of those people who tend to find that testimonials annoy me or distract me from what I am reading but this is so spectacularly not the case here. Everything is woven together so well and, even as someone who is mostly fine with their assigned gender, I felt seen and understood myself a bit better.
I really appreciate how this book includes how gender looks in different cultures. For years I have been responding about the Bugis society having five genders whenever someone says there are only two genders, and it so so nice to see other examples!
This review is definitely shorter and not as well-written as my usual because I am so emotional right now about how beautiful and needed this book is. I will be requesting it for every library I am in contact with as well as recommending it to everyone I can.
Thank-you for this. Everyone should read this (and I have said that about very few books in my life).
I would like to preface this review by saying that I am not transgender, so please do not assign my opinion equal or higher weight than those that are since it is not my lived experience.
So this book makes me want to cry in the best way. I haven't cried yet but I think I might be getting very close. I chose this book because I am trying to be a better ally and, because of some physical disabilities, I cannot physically do supportive things like go to rallies etc so most of my advocacy occurs online.
I cannot stress enough how wonderful this book is-- the interwoven testimonials with the information about different terms and medical criteria is so brilliantly done. I am one of those people who tend to find that testimonials annoy me or distract me from what I am reading but this is so spectacularly not the case here. Everything is woven together so well and, even as someone who is mostly fine with their assigned gender, I felt seen and understood myself a bit better.
I really appreciate how this book includes how gender looks in different cultures. For years I have been responding about the Bugis society having five genders whenever someone says there are only two genders, and it so so nice to see other examples!
This review is definitely shorter and not as well-written as my usual because I am so emotional right now about how beautiful and needed this book is. I will be requesting it for every library I am in contact with as well as recommending it to everyone I can.
Thank-you for this. Everyone should read this (and I have said that about very few books in my life).
September 4, 2019
It's better than anything else out there that I've seen so far, and I'm looking forward to something that does even better.
I read the advanced reader copy (ARC), so there may have been a few changes to correct some of the oversights in the ARC.
Pros:
A number of trans and nonbinary teens shared own voice perspective throughout.
Lots of work to clarify language around every aspect of being trans, nonbinary, GNC etc, possible transition, etc.
Broke down what the Trans Narrative is and why it's bad.
Drawings normalized a broad spectrum of bodies.
The trans author commentary was a great addition to the reference material.
Cons:
Orchiectomy and vagioplasty were glommed together as "transfeminine bottom surgery" with a goal of neovagina, instead of clarifying why someone might opt only for orchiectomy.
The topic of abortion was entirely avoided but it should really be discussed when trans men may be denied access for a number of trans-specific reasons.
The cis author commentary sometimes came off as disingenuous and condescending.
I read the advanced reader copy (ARC), so there may have been a few changes to correct some of the oversights in the ARC.
Pros:
A number of trans and nonbinary teens shared own voice perspective throughout.
Lots of work to clarify language around every aspect of being trans, nonbinary, GNC etc, possible transition, etc.
Broke down what the Trans Narrative is and why it's bad.
Drawings normalized a broad spectrum of bodies.
The trans author commentary was a great addition to the reference material.
Cons:
Orchiectomy and vagioplasty were glommed together as "transfeminine bottom surgery" with a goal of neovagina, instead of clarifying why someone might opt only for orchiectomy.
The topic of abortion was entirely avoided but it should really be discussed when trans men may be denied access for a number of trans-specific reasons.
The cis author commentary sometimes came off as disingenuous and condescending.
July 12, 2019
I picked up this book at my local library in order to learn more about the Trans+ community, and man was I informed! I hope to use what I learned while reading this book to be a strong ally to the trans community and further my understanding of the daily struggles some people face. If you're personally dealing with the issues faced by the trans community or just trying to combat ignorance I highly recommend this book!
July 28, 2019
I'm previewing this book as a resource for my school's GSA, which I sponsor. I picked up an advance copy at the American Library Association conference, where one of the authors was signing. Kathryn Gonzales inscribed my copy with words of support for my students that made me weepy. This is an INDISPENSABLE and incredibly approachable resource for kids, teens, parents, teachers, nurses, admin, counselors, and others. The authors cover everything from the theoretical to the medical to the social and emotional, and lots more, with sensitivity, clarity, and unwavering support for their readers. After over 20 years working with LGBTQ+ students, I feel so grateful for a resource that gathers so much of what trans and nonbinary kids have needed to know and sometimes sought out from less reliable sources. The book offers a LOT of links to other resources, often brilliantly as QR codes, and includes quick testimonials and words of wisdom in each chapter from trans and nonbinary young adults. I literally stopped reading and hugged this book at one point. I plan to order multiple copies for my school.
February 13, 2020
I really loved this book. It was written with teens in mind, but as someone sort of "new" to my identity (the problems of growing up without the language to describe myself) I found it a super useful reference. I absolutely want to go and look up all of the links at the ends of the chapters.
September 8, 2022
3.5 stars. While open in terms of what Trans people go through it was not the book I had hoped, as I wanted to be able to understand my children better and I’m not entirely sure I do. It’s a how I feel mixed with how to sort of,
June 18, 2019
My librarian asked me to check this out to see if it's a good fit for the library, and I'll definitely be recommending it! While there were some formatting mistakes and missing information, I'm sure by the time this is published it will be a fantastic resource for trans teenagers! Each chapter has lots of useful information that is appropriate, accurate, and sensitive (along with first-hand personal accounts that make the book seem more relatable). The message is overall one of love, acceptance, and compassion. We need more books like this!!
July 13, 2020
A good resource that tries really hard. Not advanced or nuanced enough for where I am but absolutely a thoughtful intro to a lot of questions that emerging or curious gender feels might raise. Some omissions or fuzziness in language, but nothing egregious. Obviously from well intended views.
April 12, 2021
I'm not trans myself and transgender has always been a topic that has kind of been harder for me to grasp which is why I picked up this book. I'm trying to learn a bit more about transgenderism and the trans community. So that's perspective that this review is from.
With that in mind I would say that this book is very helpful for folks (especially teens) who ARE trans but not as much for an ally who is trying to a grasp on trans matters. This book does an amazing job of informing teens who are looking to transition of their options and what it might be like to start things like hormonal therapy. It also does a good job of informing trans teens of different types of social situations from coming out at home to being trans in the school and work settings. There's also a section about relationships, abuse and how to handle it, and things like picking out names and pro-nouns.
It presents everything in a way that, in my opinion, is very good for teen readers.
What I really liked was reading the little entries from actual trans people. I think that, that kind of helps both trans people and allies get to know the trans community a bit more.
That said, this wasn't informational for an ally who is trying to understand the trans perspective more. There were definitely bits and pieces of information that could be helpful to an ally but this book is very much for trans people rather than allies. Which is perfectly okay because it's very helpful, I think, for trans teens to have some tools and a place to learn more about themselves.
So if you're a trans teen, this book might be very helpful to you! If your an ally who is looking to understand trans perspectives more and what transgenderism is about, this book might not be what you're looking for. Though I would say that it definitely wouldn't hurt to read!
With that in mind I would say that this book is very helpful for folks (especially teens) who ARE trans but not as much for an ally who is trying to a grasp on trans matters. This book does an amazing job of informing teens who are looking to transition of their options and what it might be like to start things like hormonal therapy. It also does a good job of informing trans teens of different types of social situations from coming out at home to being trans in the school and work settings. There's also a section about relationships, abuse and how to handle it, and things like picking out names and pro-nouns.
It presents everything in a way that, in my opinion, is very good for teen readers.
What I really liked was reading the little entries from actual trans people. I think that, that kind of helps both trans people and allies get to know the trans community a bit more.
That said, this wasn't informational for an ally who is trying to understand the trans perspective more. There were definitely bits and pieces of information that could be helpful to an ally but this book is very much for trans people rather than allies. Which is perfectly okay because it's very helpful, I think, for trans teens to have some tools and a place to learn more about themselves.
So if you're a trans teen, this book might be very helpful to you! If your an ally who is looking to understand trans perspectives more and what transgenderism is about, this book might not be what you're looking for. Though I would say that it definitely wouldn't hurt to read!
December 23, 2022
This book has some important terms and definitions, as well as explanations of common social, physical, mental, and medical experiences facing trans and non-binary people. These explanations are supported by individualized personal stories shared from trans and non-binary folks. Finally, there are plenty of resources. Essentially, this is a good book to provide initial resources to someone who is exploring their gender identity.
March 23, 2025
happy trans rights readathon! as a library worker and disability rights activist, i love reading for all age levels. i think this book for teens can teach everyone a bit more about being themselves and having patience, respect, and love for interacting with others at all stages of their journey. i certainly learned things i did not expect from this book. i love being queer and all of the new futures we imagine into existence as a community <3
February 17, 2023
I learned a lot reading this book and appreciate the honestly of the young adult points of views throughout the book, as well as author asides. I thought the information was valuable for anyone trying to figure out their path. A good book for school libraries and public libraries to have.
April 2, 2020
Lots of really useful information for trans or non-binary teens coming of age.
December 8, 2019
I hear and read so often in the news of trans and non-binary issues that when I saw a review of this new YA book I thought it might help me become informed.
It's aimed at youth who are already living with these realities, and didn't contain basic generalities to educate those wondering what it means. I did learn some new vocabulary. It was the non-binary piece that I wanted to know more about, but I had to go to internet searches to discover how and when this identification began. I still don't understand how this looks and feels to people in our culture who gender identify as neither male or female, but I'm going to let this attempt be sufficient for now. Perhaps some day I'll meet someone, or somebody I know will tell me about someone in their family who's nonbinary, and then I'll better understand.
It's aimed at youth who are already living with these realities, and didn't contain basic generalities to educate those wondering what it means. I did learn some new vocabulary. It was the non-binary piece that I wanted to know more about, but I had to go to internet searches to discover how and when this identification began. I still don't understand how this looks and feels to people in our culture who gender identify as neither male or female, but I'm going to let this attempt be sufficient for now. Perhaps some day I'll meet someone, or somebody I know will tell me about someone in their family who's nonbinary, and then I'll better understand.
March 27, 2023
Amazing — this book was written by trans people for transgender and non-binary adolescents and teens as well as cisgender allies. It’s packed full of wonderful information about every area of life — including social, medical, and legal transition — and QR codes with additional resources. Highly recommend!
July 21, 2023
This book is a great resource for trans teens who are struggling with their identity. The authors of the book, Kathryn Gonzales and Karen Rayne, wrote the book to guide and educate trans teens on different aspects of life that may be different because of their gender identity. The book is very easy to understand and learn from. An example of this is simple drawings to educate the readers even more. Something else in the book is diary entries from multiple trans people that can help the reader relate and understand how all the topics in the book actually affect people in real life. One of the people who wrote some of these entries is Johnny, who is 16 and a trans man. The book also has great messages for the readers. One message from the book is “there is no right or wrong way to be you”. This book could be educational and helpful for anyone who is trans or has a trans person in their life, but it is mostly a book to help trans teens live their life to their fullest.
(This was a school assignment sorry it’s cringe)
(This was a school assignment sorry it’s cringe)
August 24, 2019
Very much targeted for youth book on gender identity and other teen issues. It was informative, but it covered A LOT which also means it brushed past too much and barely scratched surface.
The beginning was solid but then it covered many topics really quickly without as much explanation.
The beginning was solid but then it covered many topics really quickly without as much explanation.
September 20, 2019
Trans+ is an expansive guide for teens across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, especially those who are trans and/or non-binary, and their allies. Everything you need to know about living your gender identity is explained in a clear, uncensored, and accessible text meant to arm you with knowledge and to help you feel loved. Topics include gender, the body, transitioning, sex and relationships, and so much more. For allies like me, there is no better resource available for educating yourself about how to better understand and advocate for your peers.
August 13, 2020
| Review on Reader Fox Blog |
It's pretty ambitious for a book's synopsis to claim that a book will answer all of someone's questions on a particular topic. Fortunately, for Kathryn Gonzales and Karen Rayne's Trans+: Love, Sex, Romance, and Being You, I can honestly say that this book will at least answer a great many of your questions. Neither I, nor the book, can truly promise that the text within these pages will answer every question you have, of course. But the fact of the matter is that this is an incredibly informative and inclusive guide for navigating one's gender identity.
There's so much I didn't know.
At 300+ pages, Trans+ really does its absolute best to educate its readers. This is something that I greatly appreciated as I picked up this book largely to develop my knowledge and understanding of this subject. As I do not fall into a category that would result in me identifying as Trans in any way, this is an area where my knowledge has been lacking for much of my life. And while this book is aimed at younger readers, teenagers who are in a period of their life where they find themselves uncertain and questioning about their gender identity, this book is still an incredibly useful resource for just about anyone.
I learned so much while reading this book. For that alone, I would say that this is an excellent read for literally anyone who is looking to better understand these topics. Whether you're someone questioning your identity--teen or no--or you're a parent trying to understand what your child is going through or even if you're just looking to learn more about gender, gender dysphoria, coming out, puberty, the process of transitioning, or how it affects sex, relationships, and family, this is a great book to pick up.
I was provided a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
| Instagram | Twitter | Reader Fox Blog | Bloglovin’ | Facebook |
It's pretty ambitious for a book's synopsis to claim that a book will answer all of someone's questions on a particular topic. Fortunately, for Kathryn Gonzales and Karen Rayne's Trans+: Love, Sex, Romance, and Being You, I can honestly say that this book will at least answer a great many of your questions. Neither I, nor the book, can truly promise that the text within these pages will answer every question you have, of course. But the fact of the matter is that this is an incredibly informative and inclusive guide for navigating one's gender identity.
There's so much I didn't know.
At 300+ pages, Trans+ really does its absolute best to educate its readers. This is something that I greatly appreciated as I picked up this book largely to develop my knowledge and understanding of this subject. As I do not fall into a category that would result in me identifying as Trans in any way, this is an area where my knowledge has been lacking for much of my life. And while this book is aimed at younger readers, teenagers who are in a period of their life where they find themselves uncertain and questioning about their gender identity, this book is still an incredibly useful resource for just about anyone.
I learned so much while reading this book. For that alone, I would say that this is an excellent read for literally anyone who is looking to better understand these topics. Whether you're someone questioning your identity--teen or no--or you're a parent trying to understand what your child is going through or even if you're just looking to learn more about gender, gender dysphoria, coming out, puberty, the process of transitioning, or how it affects sex, relationships, and family, this is a great book to pick up.
I was provided a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
| Instagram | Twitter | Reader Fox Blog | Bloglovin’ | Facebook |
January 23, 2020
Great basic resource about navigating the world as a trans person, aimed at teens but great for adults too!
This guide is expansive and acts as a resource itself as well as linking additional resources on each chapter. A variety of topics are included belonging in the categories of Body, Transitioning, Relationships, Sex and Life. It encompasses both standard information that can be found in most books aimed at teens in puberty, but this book examines it all from a trans perspective that I found refreshing and educational, even as a trans adult.
There is a ton of information, not just about coming out, transition basics, and safe sex, but also more theoretical topics like how the trans narrative is framed in media and how that affects trans people personally, how to recognise abusive relationships, and how to navigate school, work or faith as a trans person.
I found it easy to read while being very informative. It's definitely aimed at teens who already question their gender and/or have previously engaged with the idea of being trans, rather than being a Trans 101 guide. Still, there is a helpful glossary and the introduction explains basic terms and concepts.
The format is friendly and aids reading it easily. I do however question some of the colouring choices: light grey text on dark gray background and vice versa is hard on the eyes and I found it exhausting to focus on even for a short paragraph. A stronger contrast for these parts would have been appreciated. The parts do not make for the majority of the book, though. They are mostly called "diary entries" - short passages where trans teens and adults talk about their personal experience with the surrounding topic. I particularly liked those sections, as they add a personal touch and bring up different perspectives on the same issue.
Overall a great basic resource for trans people of all ages, particularly for teens but can be helpful for adults too!
I received an ARC and reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
This guide is expansive and acts as a resource itself as well as linking additional resources on each chapter. A variety of topics are included belonging in the categories of Body, Transitioning, Relationships, Sex and Life. It encompasses both standard information that can be found in most books aimed at teens in puberty, but this book examines it all from a trans perspective that I found refreshing and educational, even as a trans adult.
There is a ton of information, not just about coming out, transition basics, and safe sex, but also more theoretical topics like how the trans narrative is framed in media and how that affects trans people personally, how to recognise abusive relationships, and how to navigate school, work or faith as a trans person.
I found it easy to read while being very informative. It's definitely aimed at teens who already question their gender and/or have previously engaged with the idea of being trans, rather than being a Trans 101 guide. Still, there is a helpful glossary and the introduction explains basic terms and concepts.
The format is friendly and aids reading it easily. I do however question some of the colouring choices: light grey text on dark gray background and vice versa is hard on the eyes and I found it exhausting to focus on even for a short paragraph. A stronger contrast for these parts would have been appreciated. The parts do not make for the majority of the book, though. They are mostly called "diary entries" - short passages where trans teens and adults talk about their personal experience with the surrounding topic. I particularly liked those sections, as they add a personal touch and bring up different perspectives on the same issue.
Overall a great basic resource for trans people of all ages, particularly for teens but can be helpful for adults too!
I received an ARC and reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
September 22, 2019
I received a copy of Trans+ from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Trans+: Love, Sex, Romance, and Being You by Kathryn Gonzales and Karen Rayne is a young adult nonfiction book aimed at trans and nonbinary teens that covers a wide range of topics. The book is divided up into six main sections – introduction, body, transitioning, relationships, sexy times, and life – which are then further broken down; for instance, the “life” section includes chapters on family, school, work, and spirituality.
The text is broken up nicely with relevant illustrations, and a recurring feature throughout is sidebars by several trans and nonbinary teens relating their own experiences, or elaborating on some point brought up in the main text. Each chapter also includes a list of and links to additional resources, ranging from fact sheets to websites to YouTube videos.
Trans+ is written in an informative but engaging tone, and doesn’t talk down to its teenage audience. It takes a survey-style approach, aiming for breadth rather than depth in its coverage. There are pros and cons to that approach; it gives a little information about a lot of things, which allows readers to get a good idea of the “big picture”, but it doesn’t give a lot of detail about most topics. I lost count of the number of times I saw the phrase “for more information, see the additional resources at the end of this chapter”. On the one hand, it’s great that those resources are there, but on the other hand, sometimes you just want all the information in one place.
It’s definitely meeting a need, though, and even without the additional resources it contains a wealth of important information. The sidebars by trans and nonbinary teens are an especially nice touch, both to show the readers that they aren’t alone and to bring the information in the book to life. For instance, in the section about employment the book discusses the pros and cons of applying for jobs under one’s legal name versus one’s preferred name, we get the real experiences of two teens, one who used their legal name and one who used their preferred name.
Overall, this is definitely a good resource for trans, nonbinary, and questioning teens and their parents as well.
Trans+: Love, Sex, Romance, and Being You by Kathryn Gonzales and Karen Rayne is a young adult nonfiction book aimed at trans and nonbinary teens that covers a wide range of topics. The book is divided up into six main sections – introduction, body, transitioning, relationships, sexy times, and life – which are then further broken down; for instance, the “life” section includes chapters on family, school, work, and spirituality.
The text is broken up nicely with relevant illustrations, and a recurring feature throughout is sidebars by several trans and nonbinary teens relating their own experiences, or elaborating on some point brought up in the main text. Each chapter also includes a list of and links to additional resources, ranging from fact sheets to websites to YouTube videos.
Trans+ is written in an informative but engaging tone, and doesn’t talk down to its teenage audience. It takes a survey-style approach, aiming for breadth rather than depth in its coverage. There are pros and cons to that approach; it gives a little information about a lot of things, which allows readers to get a good idea of the “big picture”, but it doesn’t give a lot of detail about most topics. I lost count of the number of times I saw the phrase “for more information, see the additional resources at the end of this chapter”. On the one hand, it’s great that those resources are there, but on the other hand, sometimes you just want all the information in one place.
It’s definitely meeting a need, though, and even without the additional resources it contains a wealth of important information. The sidebars by trans and nonbinary teens are an especially nice touch, both to show the readers that they aren’t alone and to bring the information in the book to life. For instance, in the section about employment the book discusses the pros and cons of applying for jobs under one’s legal name versus one’s preferred name, we get the real experiences of two teens, one who used their legal name and one who used their preferred name.
Overall, this is definitely a good resource for trans, nonbinary, and questioning teens and their parents as well.
January 21, 2024
This was a good book written for teens near the start of their trans journey, especially if they haven't spent much time on the internet. It generally assumes most people in your life are clueless but well-meaning, although it does discuss some negative outcomes too.
The book isn't solely focused on relationships (it covers coming out, transitioning, school and work concerns, etc), but it generally covers sex and relationship content well. It's written before the most recent surge of anti-youth trans laws, so it doesn't address the current harms lawmakers are placing on our kids. It doesn't address the sense of hopelessness and doom many of us experience in today's world.
Some big glaring issues here, for a teen book on sex, telling things like "lambskin condoms protect against STIs except the kind that need skin to skin contact" (I've personally been aware they bacteria and viruses can pass through the pores for 25+ years. Someone writing a sex book would have had ready access to this info in 2019). Similarly, for a book that finds it important to mention the risk of pregnancy from ejaculation on a sex toy and then inserting it, it's a bit surprising that it wouldn't mention anywhere about the risk for pregnancy related to ejaculation on or the external genitals (anal sex was placed firmly in the category of "cannot cause pregnancy" although it can't in the same way that a sex toy can't - unless there is sperm migration, and then it can!). Another instance was where it describes common types of STIs- under the heading of "Viral" it lists "bacterial vaginosis and yeast"
Despite these, the book goes a long way to be a comprehensive book- it talks about consent, relationship safety (including how to respond if you recognize that you or your friend is an abusive partner), how to manage trans fetishists and self harm by sexual activity. I've not seen a book cover so much /important / content in a way that's accessible to teens. Without the potentially life impacting factual errors that could lead to pregnancy or fatal STIs, the book would be 5 stars.
The book isn't solely focused on relationships (it covers coming out, transitioning, school and work concerns, etc), but it generally covers sex and relationship content well. It's written before the most recent surge of anti-youth trans laws, so it doesn't address the current harms lawmakers are placing on our kids. It doesn't address the sense of hopelessness and doom many of us experience in today's world.
Some big glaring issues here, for a teen book on sex, telling things like "lambskin condoms protect against STIs except the kind that need skin to skin contact" (I've personally been aware they bacteria and viruses can pass through the pores for 25+ years. Someone writing a sex book would have had ready access to this info in 2019). Similarly, for a book that finds it important to mention the risk of pregnancy from ejaculation on a sex toy and then inserting it, it's a bit surprising that it wouldn't mention anywhere about the risk for pregnancy related to ejaculation on or the external genitals (anal sex was placed firmly in the category of "cannot cause pregnancy" although it can't in the same way that a sex toy can't - unless there is sperm migration, and then it can!). Another instance was where it describes common types of STIs- under the heading of "Viral" it lists "bacterial vaginosis and yeast"
Despite these, the book goes a long way to be a comprehensive book- it talks about consent, relationship safety (including how to respond if you recognize that you or your friend is an abusive partner), how to manage trans fetishists and self harm by sexual activity. I've not seen a book cover so much /important / content in a way that's accessible to teens. Without the potentially life impacting factual errors that could lead to pregnancy or fatal STIs, the book would be 5 stars.
December 5, 2019
First off, I'd like to thank NetGalley and American Psychological Association for providing me a copy of this book for an honest review!
This is a fantastic resource of information for someone who is or knows a Trans person. It's also fantastic if you're unsure of your gender identity, and provides a fantastic definition of most of the information you would need to kind of start figuring those things out for yourself.
As a Trans person myself, I was very interested in seeing what sort of information that the book provided - and it's really uplifting. Though the book is geared primarily toward teens, it has a plethora of fantastic information that can be utilized by adults as well. I also feel that this book, much like Archie Bongiovanni and Tristan Jimerson's A Quick & Easy Guide to They/Them Pronouns, would make a great gift for someone in your life who may not fully understand Trans issues and lifestyle.
Kathryn Gonzales and Karen Rayne attempt to provide as much information as possible, while still acknowledging that in the future it may not be the most accurate of information. But right now? Right now this book provides fantastic information such as the expected results and how long those results take to come about when going through Hormone Replacement Therapy, or the various medical side effects you may have to look out for. Or what you should expect when changing your gender marker, and what else you'd have to update in your life after that's approved. It really covers a great deal, things that I'd never even thought of.
Even if you're not Trans, I'd recommend giving this book a read. Support your LGBTQIA+ friends and neighbors by keeping yourself informed!
This is a fantastic resource of information for someone who is or knows a Trans person. It's also fantastic if you're unsure of your gender identity, and provides a fantastic definition of most of the information you would need to kind of start figuring those things out for yourself.
As a Trans person myself, I was very interested in seeing what sort of information that the book provided - and it's really uplifting. Though the book is geared primarily toward teens, it has a plethora of fantastic information that can be utilized by adults as well. I also feel that this book, much like Archie Bongiovanni and Tristan Jimerson's A Quick & Easy Guide to They/Them Pronouns, would make a great gift for someone in your life who may not fully understand Trans issues and lifestyle.
Kathryn Gonzales and Karen Rayne attempt to provide as much information as possible, while still acknowledging that in the future it may not be the most accurate of information. But right now? Right now this book provides fantastic information such as the expected results and how long those results take to come about when going through Hormone Replacement Therapy, or the various medical side effects you may have to look out for. Or what you should expect when changing your gender marker, and what else you'd have to update in your life after that's approved. It really covers a great deal, things that I'd never even thought of.
Even if you're not Trans, I'd recommend giving this book a read. Support your LGBTQIA+ friends and neighbors by keeping yourself informed!
August 4, 2025
A Vital Introduction & Guide!
Although I'm cis-gendered, I can imagine this being what every Trans, Non-Binary and otherwise Gender Non-Conforming person wishes that they had when they were a child. Almost literally an 'A-Z' of gender and basic advice on how to navigate having a gender identity which doesn't conform to the imposed binary; from a simple 'Dictionary' and 'Glossary Of Terms' to a general, rule of thumb guide to coming out. But above all, far from claiming to be 'Definitive' in any way, shape, form or fashion, a guide which always goes out of its way to reaffirm that every situation is just as unique as the person experiencing it. With even the 'Dictionary' for lack of a better term fully embracing the fact that language develops as our culture and understanding of the issue at hand develops. (This being the bitter irony of the people screaming from the rooftops that "DARE IZ OWN-LEE 2 JEN-DAHS!!!1!!" Because my cousin in Krishna, that's *NEVER* been true. And it's merely that the language that we use to describe reality is finally becoming more nuanced.) So by the time that someone listens to this audiobook, the terms used may already be obsolete.
In short then, this is a general introduction to the subject which *EVERYONE* must hear, read or otherwise absorb into their consciousness; especially the aforementioned "ONLY 2 GENDERS" crowd. Because although, as I say, it freely admits from the outset that it's only a general guide, it's still a vital introduction for absolutely everyone to the reality which has always existed, regardless of whether we choose to accept it or not.
Although I'm cis-gendered, I can imagine this being what every Trans, Non-Binary and otherwise Gender Non-Conforming person wishes that they had when they were a child. Almost literally an 'A-Z' of gender and basic advice on how to navigate having a gender identity which doesn't conform to the imposed binary; from a simple 'Dictionary' and 'Glossary Of Terms' to a general, rule of thumb guide to coming out. But above all, far from claiming to be 'Definitive' in any way, shape, form or fashion, a guide which always goes out of its way to reaffirm that every situation is just as unique as the person experiencing it. With even the 'Dictionary' for lack of a better term fully embracing the fact that language develops as our culture and understanding of the issue at hand develops. (This being the bitter irony of the people screaming from the rooftops that "DARE IZ OWN-LEE 2 JEN-DAHS!!!1!!" Because my cousin in Krishna, that's *NEVER* been true. And it's merely that the language that we use to describe reality is finally becoming more nuanced.) So by the time that someone listens to this audiobook, the terms used may already be obsolete.
In short then, this is a general introduction to the subject which *EVERYONE* must hear, read or otherwise absorb into their consciousness; especially the aforementioned "ONLY 2 GENDERS" crowd. Because although, as I say, it freely admits from the outset that it's only a general guide, it's still a vital introduction for absolutely everyone to the reality which has always existed, regardless of whether we choose to accept it or not.
November 22, 2021
I'm quite glad I read this book; as a non-trans person, I've always held the firm belief that if everybody was educated about the science of being trans, nobody would be transphobic. Maybe I'm being a bit optimistic, as there's no way the incredibly pseudo-scientific think tanks espousing lies on the radio aren't aware of the knowledge they're withholding from their listeners, but I still think the notion of education improving empathy holds some merit.
The fact of the matter is, we have an education system that fails to present even the most basic of sex education; any aspect of human anatomy that isn't cishet simply doesn't exist, and boys and girls are put into these idiotic farm sorted spaces where neither is allowed to learn about the anatomy of the other. That IMPEDES education, it doesn't SERVE it. Especially when one considers trans youth who perhaps don't experience severe gender dysphoria, which is actually a large percentage of them. These kinds of trans youth might experience intense problems trying to understand their identities, if denied the terminology to articulate what they're feeling.
Withholding this education doesn't just hurt cis people;
it hurts trans people as well.
Therefore, I would strongly recommend this book for everyone, even if you think it doesn't apply to you; ESPECIALLY if you think it doesn't apply to you.
The fact of the matter is, we have an education system that fails to present even the most basic of sex education; any aspect of human anatomy that isn't cishet simply doesn't exist, and boys and girls are put into these idiotic farm sorted spaces where neither is allowed to learn about the anatomy of the other. That IMPEDES education, it doesn't SERVE it. Especially when one considers trans youth who perhaps don't experience severe gender dysphoria, which is actually a large percentage of them. These kinds of trans youth might experience intense problems trying to understand their identities, if denied the terminology to articulate what they're feeling.
Withholding this education doesn't just hurt cis people;
it hurts trans people as well.
Therefore, I would strongly recommend this book for everyone, even if you think it doesn't apply to you; ESPECIALLY if you think it doesn't apply to you.
July 14, 2024
I'll say my not giving this 5⭐ isn't do to the content, although I do feel like the content could do with framing the trans experience a bit less ethnocentrically. But it's a great resource if you're trans in the U.S.! I took a ⭐ off because of how I felt the hardcopy version itself was not very friendly to persons with disabilities, in my opinion. I get and appreciate this book would like to be a introductory textbook type of resource for trans and allied youth and individuals, but I cannot for the life of me understand why they had to use the rigid hardcover that typical textbooks use. I have poor circulation in my hands and feet due to medication I need to take, and it was pretty difficult and almost painful to hold open the book. The book is just not thick/heavy enough to keep such a hard binding open with ease. On top of this, the glossy textbook paper makes it so frustrating to use a book light. I just feel it was a questionable choice with no paperback alternative, that I know of anyways. Otherwise, I thought this book had so many positives in terms of the content, including trans youth voices, and trying to make the topic of gender identity more accessible for our kids!
October 20, 2024
I'm a Trans masc nonbinary 24-year-old person who found this book through provoking, comforting, encouraging, and overall very helpful. Wish I had this book when I was younger, earlier in my gender journey, when I first started to question my identity. I think I would have figured this out a lot faster if I had.
This is a great book for young ppl to help guide them through the Trans experience/journey, while also being a really helpful book for allies! To help allies gain a better understanding of what type of things Trans ppl experience and think about on a daily basis.
This book has self reflecting questions to ask yourself around gender, which is great for queer or allie readers. The questionare aimed to help you figure out, "What is gender to me?" This book also has great small dairy entires from other Trans ppl talking about their experiences around specific topics.
I think this is a great book to help guide through confusing times and help Trans folks not feel alone.
Thank you for the read.
This is a great book for young ppl to help guide them through the Trans experience/journey, while also being a really helpful book for allies! To help allies gain a better understanding of what type of things Trans ppl experience and think about on a daily basis.
This book has self reflecting questions to ask yourself around gender, which is great for queer or allie readers. The questionare aimed to help you figure out, "What is gender to me?" This book also has great small dairy entires from other Trans ppl talking about their experiences around specific topics.
I think this is a great book to help guide through confusing times and help Trans folks not feel alone.
Thank you for the read.
February 1, 2020
*** I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review ***
This is a book that is definitely aimed towards teens and younger folks who are either questioning their identity or are looking to become more familiar with the wide range of people out there. It's an in-depth guide on coming out as a trans or non-binary person that is very inclusive of an array of family types, while not shying away from talking about issues that some might take as sensitive (e.g. body parts, dysphoria, physical changes, treatment). The authors discuss so many issues in this book that it really does feel like a well-rounded book that I could suggest to others who would also like to learn.
There's some commentary sprinkled throughout the book from a variety of people that add additional support for what's happening, their feelings, and helping the reader to understand that they're not alone. I wasn't always a fan of having the added commentary, but for the audience this is aimed at, it makes sense.
This is a book that is definitely aimed towards teens and younger folks who are either questioning their identity or are looking to become more familiar with the wide range of people out there. It's an in-depth guide on coming out as a trans or non-binary person that is very inclusive of an array of family types, while not shying away from talking about issues that some might take as sensitive (e.g. body parts, dysphoria, physical changes, treatment). The authors discuss so many issues in this book that it really does feel like a well-rounded book that I could suggest to others who would also like to learn.
There's some commentary sprinkled throughout the book from a variety of people that add additional support for what's happening, their feelings, and helping the reader to understand that they're not alone. I wasn't always a fan of having the added commentary, but for the audience this is aimed at, it makes sense.
September 17, 2022
This is a short book with a very specific audience: people who are questioning their own gender and sexuality. As it must be, this is an affirming text with helpful resources and some nice excerpts from journals of people who have experienced this journey in different ways.
The text works to define terms (recognizing that these continue to evolve), acknowledge challenges, and encourage people to find support systems. It does not attempt to push anyone to a particular identity, but rather acknowledges the humanity of those who already exist in a space where this is a reality. In this way, I think it could potentially save lives in that it may make some people feel heard and/or understood in a way that might not be accessible elsewhere.
I highly recommend this to young people who may be struggling with gender/sexual identity. It can be helpful, also, to friends and family members of the primary audience even though it isn't written with them in mind.
The text works to define terms (recognizing that these continue to evolve), acknowledge challenges, and encourage people to find support systems. It does not attempt to push anyone to a particular identity, but rather acknowledges the humanity of those who already exist in a space where this is a reality. In this way, I think it could potentially save lives in that it may make some people feel heard and/or understood in a way that might not be accessible elsewhere.
I highly recommend this to young people who may be struggling with gender/sexual identity. It can be helpful, also, to friends and family members of the primary audience even though it isn't written with them in mind.
October 21, 2020
My guess is that this is a great resource for trans, non-binary, gender-non-conforming and questioning teens in the USA. It is not quite such a good resource for those outside the USA.
The good: very accessible language, topics really well presented, lots of discussion of the good and the bad, how to increase the former and either decrease or live through the latter.
The not so good: While it does in places acknowledge the cultural biases in the material presented, there are also times where statements are divorced from their cultural context and presented as if this is the way it is everywhere. I found this most frustrating in the dictionary at the end of the book, where some of the definitions are just plain wrong in terms of my lived experience, and reflect some of the discourse that I see online.
The good: very accessible language, topics really well presented, lots of discussion of the good and the bad, how to increase the former and either decrease or live through the latter.
The not so good: While it does in places acknowledge the cultural biases in the material presented, there are also times where statements are divorced from their cultural context and presented as if this is the way it is everywhere. I found this most frustrating in the dictionary at the end of the book, where some of the definitions are just plain wrong in terms of my lived experience, and reflect some of the discourse that I see online.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews