What do you think?
Rate this book
The Beginner's Guide to Being a Trans Ally
What does cisgender mean? What are people saying when they refer to assigned gender? Why is it not OK to say 'preferred pronouns'? What is cis privilege? If you're curious about the answers to these questions and want to learn more, this book is for you.
This easy-to-read guide offers information and advice to anyone wanting to understand more about trans experiences. It explains what gender identity is and arms you with the correct terminology to use. Filled with real-life examples and FAQs, it offers helpful strategies to navigate respectful conversations, speak up against transphobia and create inclusive relationships and spaces. It's the ideal tool for anyone wanting to become a better ally to transgender and/or nonbinary people.
This easy-to-read guide offers information and advice to anyone wanting to understand more about trans experiences. It explains what gender identity is and arms you with the correct terminology to use. Filled with real-life examples and FAQs, it offers helpful strategies to navigate respectful conversations, speak up against transphobia and create inclusive relationships and spaces. It's the ideal tool for anyone wanting to become a better ally to transgender and/or nonbinary people.
- GenresLGBTNonfiction
128 pages, Paperback
Published October 10, 2021
12 people are currently reading
99 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 - 13 of 13 reviews
October 10, 2022
i got this book because my boyfriend is trans, and as much as i feel like i’m supporting him and being the best ally i can be - i am not. accepting that there is more i could do was really important in helping myself to become better, and i am completely invested in helping my boyfriend in every way i can. my first step is learning more.
you can never learn too much and this book was great for the basics and even if you think you know most or even all of this stuff, it is important to read anyway, reiterate that the things you are doing actually help, and maybe give you some new ideas as well as context into why you do the things you do to help the trans people around you.
you can never learn too much and this book was great for the basics and even if you think you know most or even all of this stuff, it is important to read anyway, reiterate that the things you are doing actually help, and maybe give you some new ideas as well as context into why you do the things you do to help the trans people around you.
November 29, 2025
Es ist wirklich ein BEGINNER’S GUIDE - Finde jede Lektüre in diesen Bereichen wichtig! Hat mir auf jeden Fall noch ein paar gute Grundlagen für Diskussionen gegeben, die mir häufiger begegnen mit anderen Cis-Personen. Liefert Möglichkeiten wie genderneutrale/transperente Sprache/Räume aussehen kann/können.
Für meinen Geschmack könnte es noch ein paar praktischen Übungen geben, welche Menschen die Angst vor dem Sprachgebrauch nehmen könnte. Zudem klärt es über den Umgang als Trans-Ally auf, leifert jedoch weniger Informationen rund um das Trans sein.
Ich hatte die eigene Erwartung bzw. Hoffnung, mehr Insights/Wissen zu bekommen als Beziehungsperson einer nicht-binären Person, jedoch ist dieses Buch dafür weniger geeignet! Sondern bietet wie gesagt, die Grundlage wie man ein Trans-Ally im allgemeinen Umgang in öffentlichen Räumen und mit Familie/Freund*innen ist (und wie nicht).
Das Buch ist in Englisch geschrieben und ich spreche offensichtlich Deutsch, daher möchte ich auch noch lesen: "Die Zukunft ist nicht-binär" von Lydia Meyer
Für meinen Geschmack könnte es noch ein paar praktischen Übungen geben, welche Menschen die Angst vor dem Sprachgebrauch nehmen könnte. Zudem klärt es über den Umgang als Trans-Ally auf, leifert jedoch weniger Informationen rund um das Trans sein.
Ich hatte die eigene Erwartung bzw. Hoffnung, mehr Insights/Wissen zu bekommen als Beziehungsperson einer nicht-binären Person, jedoch ist dieses Buch dafür weniger geeignet! Sondern bietet wie gesagt, die Grundlage wie man ein Trans-Ally im allgemeinen Umgang in öffentlichen Räumen und mit Familie/Freund*innen ist (und wie nicht).
Das Buch ist in Englisch geschrieben und ich spreche offensichtlich Deutsch, daher möchte ich auch noch lesen: "Die Zukunft ist nicht-binär" von Lydia Meyer
November 25, 2024
Although this is thin and visually approachable, I would actually recommend Jeannie Gainsburg's The Savvy Ally as a better foundation. Although this looks like it would be breezy, the tone feels a bit drier. Since Whittlesey is coming at things from a researcher's perspective, it makes sense but maybe makes for a slightly less engaging read.
Where The Savvy Ally goes into more detail about how to respond to my comments and questions, this is even more preliminary. While that's fine, a more engaging approach might have been especially useful.
The strength of this one comes with the first-person accounts that are sprinkled in. If there were more of those it would have really benefitted. As it stands though, I did appreciate the anecdote of The Melodies in particular, as a relatable and empowering story of how an organization can rise to meet an accessibility challenge.
Where The Savvy Ally goes into more detail about how to respond to my comments and questions, this is even more preliminary. While that's fine, a more engaging approach might have been especially useful.
The strength of this one comes with the first-person accounts that are sprinkled in. If there were more of those it would have really benefitted. As it stands though, I did appreciate the anecdote of The Melodies in particular, as a relatable and empowering story of how an organization can rise to meet an accessibility challenge.
November 9, 2023
It was a good beginners guide. I was looking more for specifically how to support someone who's trans, my bf is trans and I'm gender fluid so I'm already aware of terminology and things like that, I was hoping more for more specific examples of how to support people who are and have transitioned
Read
March 19, 2025Book Review: The Beginner’s Guide to Being a Trans Ally
Author: Christy Whittlesey
Publisher: Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2021
ISBN: 978-1787750958
In “The Beginner’s Guide to Being a Trans Ally,” Dr. Christy Whittlesey provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to supporting the transgender community. This essential guide is aimed at individuals who are seeking to educate themselves on transgender issues and navigate the often complex landscape of allyship. Whittlesey’s work is not only informative but is also imbued with a sense of urgency, emphasizing the critical need for allies in fostering inclusive environments.
Structured around foundational concepts of gender identity, the book begins by defining key terms and explaining the nuances of gender diversity. Whittlesey makes an important distinction between gender and sex, helping readers understand the spectrum of gender identities and the significance of affirming individuals in their self-identification. This early framing sets the stage for subsequent discussions about the challenges faced by transgender individuals, including societal prejudice, discrimination, and the mental health impacts of transphobia.
One of the book’s notable strengths is its practical approach to allyship. Whittlesey offers actionable strategies for supporting the transgender community, ranging from effective communication techniques to advocating for policy changes in various contexts, such as workplaces and educational institutions. The inclusion of real-life examples and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) enhances the reader’s understanding and provides tangible scenarios where they might apply the principles discussed. This practical focus empowers readers with the tools needed to confront transphobia and promote inclusivity in their daily interactions.
Moreover, Whittlesey emphasizes the importance of listening to and amplifying the voices of transgender individuals themselves. She advocates for a model of allyship that prioritizes the experiences and needs of those directly affected by gender discrimination. This perspective is essential, as it challenges allies to approach their support with humility and a genuine willingness to learn from the community they wish to serve.
However, while the guide is robust in its practical advice, readers seeking a deeper academic exploration of transgender studies may find the text somewhat introductory. The book’s primary strength lies in its accessibility and straightforwardness, which may not delve into the theoretical frameworks that underpin the issues discussed. A more extensive examination of intersectionality and how various identities intersect within the context of gender could have enriched the narrative further.
In conclusion, “The Beginner’s Guide to Being a Trans Ally” is a valuable resource for anyone looking to expand their understanding of transgender issues and learn how to be an effective ally. Christy Whittlesey’s thoughtful and engaging writing serves as a crucial reminder of the power of allyship in creating a more inclusive society. This guide not only educates its readers but also inspires action, making it an essential read for those committed to fostering understanding and acceptance within their communities. By equipping readers with the knowledge and tools necessary to effect change, Whittlesey contributes meaningfully to the ongoing discourse surrounding gender equality and inclusivity.
Author: Christy Whittlesey
Publisher: Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2021
ISBN: 978-1787750958
In “The Beginner’s Guide to Being a Trans Ally,” Dr. Christy Whittlesey provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to supporting the transgender community. This essential guide is aimed at individuals who are seeking to educate themselves on transgender issues and navigate the often complex landscape of allyship. Whittlesey’s work is not only informative but is also imbued with a sense of urgency, emphasizing the critical need for allies in fostering inclusive environments.
Structured around foundational concepts of gender identity, the book begins by defining key terms and explaining the nuances of gender diversity. Whittlesey makes an important distinction between gender and sex, helping readers understand the spectrum of gender identities and the significance of affirming individuals in their self-identification. This early framing sets the stage for subsequent discussions about the challenges faced by transgender individuals, including societal prejudice, discrimination, and the mental health impacts of transphobia.
One of the book’s notable strengths is its practical approach to allyship. Whittlesey offers actionable strategies for supporting the transgender community, ranging from effective communication techniques to advocating for policy changes in various contexts, such as workplaces and educational institutions. The inclusion of real-life examples and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) enhances the reader’s understanding and provides tangible scenarios where they might apply the principles discussed. This practical focus empowers readers with the tools needed to confront transphobia and promote inclusivity in their daily interactions.
Moreover, Whittlesey emphasizes the importance of listening to and amplifying the voices of transgender individuals themselves. She advocates for a model of allyship that prioritizes the experiences and needs of those directly affected by gender discrimination. This perspective is essential, as it challenges allies to approach their support with humility and a genuine willingness to learn from the community they wish to serve.
However, while the guide is robust in its practical advice, readers seeking a deeper academic exploration of transgender studies may find the text somewhat introductory. The book’s primary strength lies in its accessibility and straightforwardness, which may not delve into the theoretical frameworks that underpin the issues discussed. A more extensive examination of intersectionality and how various identities intersect within the context of gender could have enriched the narrative further.
In conclusion, “The Beginner’s Guide to Being a Trans Ally” is a valuable resource for anyone looking to expand their understanding of transgender issues and learn how to be an effective ally. Christy Whittlesey’s thoughtful and engaging writing serves as a crucial reminder of the power of allyship in creating a more inclusive society. This guide not only educates its readers but also inspires action, making it an essential read for those committed to fostering understanding and acceptance within their communities. By equipping readers with the knowledge and tools necessary to effect change, Whittlesey contributes meaningfully to the ongoing discourse surrounding gender equality and inclusivity.
February 15, 2022
Picked this up on a whim from my library and found it to be a super fast and fairly helpful read. It is accurately titled—it is fairly basic and bordering common sense in areas, but it also gave actionable tips and posed some thought-provoking questions (for example, I really liked the author’s points about actively think of our gender instead of remaining on “gender autopilot”). I also liked that although she included a lot of quotes and experiences from her interviews of trans and non-people to center their perspective. Writing is clear and concise.
September 8, 2024
While this book is definitely more for those unfamiliar with the trans community, reading the explanations and examples will help me to better defend the arguments I hear about transgender people. This is only a beginning step to being a better ally and I’m grateful for the suggestions in the back of the book for documentaries to watch, books to read and even hashtags to follow. Thank you for writing this. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
February 4, 2023
As the title suggests, this is a great starting point for anyone who is ready to learn more any trans allyship. It is a short and easy read, featuring simple explanations of correct terminology to use and strategies for navigating conversations. Plus gentle reminders about centring our thinking around trans people. A good addition to staffroom CPD shelves.
May 15, 2022
Quick read. The interspersed quotes from interviews with trans people were very helpful, as was the example story of allyship in a vocal group. Preventing gender-evasiveness and the discussion of performative allyship were good too.
May 12, 2024
A good primer for being a trans ally, written by a cisgender woman who takes care to center trans voices.
December 31, 2023
Although this book is not written by a trans person, people striving to be a better ally to trans folks will get lot from this, even if this is something you have been working on for awhile. I plan to complement this by reading additional works by trans folks, including Transgender 101 (written by Nicholas Teich).
February 25, 2022
An excellent jumping off point for cis people.
April 17, 2024
Clear and lucid, a good starter with plenty of references as a jumping off point.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews