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Coming Home
Coming from a small, rural town in North Carolina, Sawyer grapples with what it means to grow up queer, where the population of queer people was, to the untrained eye, non-existent. Nuanced with the societal constructs of the gender binary, they deconstruct what it means to be queer in an evangelical Southern family. From growing up being a family proclaimed “tomboy,” to joining the Army under Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, Sawyer brings you a collection of essays detailing everything from coming out, to family life to church hurt and everything in between. Candid, honest, insightful, and sometimes breathtakingly haunting,
Coming Home is all about finding your queer voice in a heteronormative world. With an honest zeal for life, this set of essays will show you what it truly means to come home.
Coming Home is all about finding your queer voice in a heteronormative world. With an honest zeal for life, this set of essays will show you what it truly means to come home.
167 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 21, 2023
9 people are currently reading
203 people want to read
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March 25, 2023Let me start by saying I don’t give a star rating to memoirs. I don’t judge or place a set value on someone’s story because everyone should as Sawyer Cole expresses in their story “to take up space” and express who they are.
This memoir felt like listening to a good friend. It’s a tough look at their experiences as trans non-binary, the valleys and peaks of living in the small town south. As a southerner, I recognized the people they encountered and it made me sad, but this story has strength and hope as well.
It was a pleasure to read their story because I follow them on Bookstagram and have witnessed their love story unfold as well as their many amazing ways they include all people in action and thought.
Well-done! It takes heart and bravery to share your story, no matter what, and this was a victory for sure.
This memoir felt like listening to a good friend. It’s a tough look at their experiences as trans non-binary, the valleys and peaks of living in the small town south. As a southerner, I recognized the people they encountered and it made me sad, but this story has strength and hope as well.
It was a pleasure to read their story because I follow them on Bookstagram and have witnessed their love story unfold as well as their many amazing ways they include all people in action and thought.
Well-done! It takes heart and bravery to share your story, no matter what, and this was a victory for sure.
January 10, 2023
Overcoming significant trauma at the hands of those we love simply for being our true selves is a long and arduous journey. To take those experiences and share them with the world in the hopes that maybe, just maybe, one person will breath a little easier knowing they aren’t alone is the mark of a truly exceptional human. I am not a memoir person, but this one is it, folks.
Coming Home is an honest, raw beautifully written and often painful sharing of the author’s journey through life that ultimately leads to acceptance, self love, genuine love and the realization that regardless of gender or sexuality, we all deserve to take up space.
Coming Home is an honest, raw beautifully written and often painful sharing of the author’s journey through life that ultimately leads to acceptance, self love, genuine love and the realization that regardless of gender or sexuality, we all deserve to take up space.
March 21, 2023
So raw, and so beautiful.
April 9, 2023
CW: Suicide, homophobia, transphobia, abandonment, self-harm. and dead naming
"I'm here. I'm Queer. I have a voice. A voice that needs to be heard."
Coming Home by Sawyer Cole Hobson is the most beautifully raw memoir I have read this year. Along the way, Sawyer shares their journey of identity, family, reproductive justice, bookstagram, and mental health. This book is like a deep conversation with your best friend.
Cole describes the pain and hurt associated with coming out to their family, being in an abusive relationship, and serving our country under Don't Ask Don't Tell. Also there's some joyful moments with they and Alicia raising their children. Everyone around the globe should read this important book. Sawyer Cole, thank you for sharing your story that is helping others who may be struggling.
"I'm here. I'm Queer. I have a voice. A voice that needs to be heard."
Coming Home by Sawyer Cole Hobson is the most beautifully raw memoir I have read this year. Along the way, Sawyer shares their journey of identity, family, reproductive justice, bookstagram, and mental health. This book is like a deep conversation with your best friend.
Cole describes the pain and hurt associated with coming out to their family, being in an abusive relationship, and serving our country under Don't Ask Don't Tell. Also there's some joyful moments with they and Alicia raising their children. Everyone around the globe should read this important book. Sawyer Cole, thank you for sharing your story that is helping others who may be struggling.
April 5, 2023
“Brave, beautiful, and raw. Cole leaves their soul right there on the page.”
𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘰𝘯 𝘑𝘶𝘮𝘱, 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝙈𝙮 𝙊𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙎𝙪𝙣𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙚
I don’t read a lot of memoirs or even nonfiction in general, but when I was asked to blurb this debut memoir I didn’t hesitate for a second.
This candid and honest collection of essays truly deserves all the stars and accolades. I was so impressed with Cole’s vulnerability and grit. I laughed, I cried, I even learned a lesson or two about what it means to be an ally.
Thank you kindly to the author for providing a review copy! 𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑯𝒐𝒎𝒆 releases March 21, 2023!
𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘰𝘯 𝘑𝘶𝘮𝘱, 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝙈𝙮 𝙊𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙎𝙪𝙣𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙚
I don’t read a lot of memoirs or even nonfiction in general, but when I was asked to blurb this debut memoir I didn’t hesitate for a second.
This candid and honest collection of essays truly deserves all the stars and accolades. I was so impressed with Cole’s vulnerability and grit. I laughed, I cried, I even learned a lesson or two about what it means to be an ally.
Thank you kindly to the author for providing a review copy! 𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑯𝒐𝒎𝒆 releases March 21, 2023!
March 28, 2023
Thank you to @katerockbooktours and author @colesbooknook for my gifted e-copy! (This signed paperback copy I bought myself 🥰)
Reading Sawyer's personal story, I felt like I was talking with a friend, or reading their diary. Their story, while difficult to read at times due to some heavy content, was still easily digestible. I so appreciate Sawyer opening up and sharing their journey of growing up queer in a small, evangelical southern town and family, coming out, their trauma, self-discovery, and healing. I laughed at the Golden Girls references and kid 💩 story 🤣 (you'll have to read it!), my heart broke reading the devastating moments, and I teared up when Sawyer began to find their true self, and their true love with @alishareadsgoodbooks (and Alisha and Cole trolling each other will forever be one of my favorite things on booksta 😂).
What I think I love most about this vulnerable memoir is that someone out there will read it and feel seen. Someone will read it and think, "Omg, me too, this is me." Soneone will read it and feel less alone. Someone will read it and release just a little bit of tension in their body, drop their shoulders, unclench their jaw. Someone will read it and finally liberate a lifelong sigh of relief they've been waiting to release for when someone tells them it's okay to be who they are. Someone will read it and finally feel hope. Someone will feel they can find their way home. Someone's life will be saved.
Coming Home is such a vital and pivotal memoir, especially now, in a time where nearly every single state in our nation has proposed legislation targeting the LGBTQIAP+ community, and the trans community in particular. Please read this important collection of personal essays, and follow Sawyer Cole here on booksta. They have such a beautiful soul. And you'll be missing all the fun with them and Alisha if you don't! 😉
Sawyer, thank you so much for vulnerability and candor. I am honored to know you. 🩵🤍🩷
Reading Sawyer's personal story, I felt like I was talking with a friend, or reading their diary. Their story, while difficult to read at times due to some heavy content, was still easily digestible. I so appreciate Sawyer opening up and sharing their journey of growing up queer in a small, evangelical southern town and family, coming out, their trauma, self-discovery, and healing. I laughed at the Golden Girls references and kid 💩 story 🤣 (you'll have to read it!), my heart broke reading the devastating moments, and I teared up when Sawyer began to find their true self, and their true love with @alishareadsgoodbooks (and Alisha and Cole trolling each other will forever be one of my favorite things on booksta 😂).
What I think I love most about this vulnerable memoir is that someone out there will read it and feel seen. Someone will read it and think, "Omg, me too, this is me." Soneone will read it and feel less alone. Someone will read it and release just a little bit of tension in their body, drop their shoulders, unclench their jaw. Someone will read it and finally liberate a lifelong sigh of relief they've been waiting to release for when someone tells them it's okay to be who they are. Someone will read it and finally feel hope. Someone will feel they can find their way home. Someone's life will be saved.
Coming Home is such a vital and pivotal memoir, especially now, in a time where nearly every single state in our nation has proposed legislation targeting the LGBTQIAP+ community, and the trans community in particular. Please read this important collection of personal essays, and follow Sawyer Cole here on booksta. They have such a beautiful soul. And you'll be missing all the fun with them and Alisha if you don't! 😉
Sawyer, thank you so much for vulnerability and candor. I am honored to know you. 🩵🤍🩷
February 10, 2023
“ Well, I’m telling you, I’ve lived it. More importantly, I’ve grown through it.”
Coming Home is a set of essays that tell of Hobson’s coming of age journey beginning in a small Southern town, discovering their sexual and gender identity, and finally finding happiness and their happily ever after. Told in a raw and vulnerable way, this memoir put me through a full range of emotions and a desire to read more!
While this memoir shares their journey of identity, true self and happiness, it also touches on many important topics including mental health, allyship, transphobia, homophobia, Don’t Ask Don’t Tell, reproductive rights, parenthood, and so much more. They write with such wisdom and experience and really delve into such current issues that can either open or widen your eyes and mind.
Their writing is so open and honest it’s as if Hobson is sitting right across from you bearing their soul and moving your heart. There were so many times that I would stop and reread a passage because their words were so deep and reflective and I wanted to sit with those words a little longer.
I can see this memoir becoming an important resource to people on similar journeys of self discovery and identity. Hobson’s words will certainly be a sense of comfort and a hand to hold on that journey as they help new readers find the strength and take the time needed to emerge into the version they’ve always meant to become. Their words will be a guide, a mentor, a hug to so many and that is a beautiful thing. Everyone deserves the feeling of acceptance, love, belonging, and home.
Whether you are a fan of memoirs, a queer reader, or an ally, make sure you preorder this book or pick it up come March!
Coming Home is a set of essays that tell of Hobson’s coming of age journey beginning in a small Southern town, discovering their sexual and gender identity, and finally finding happiness and their happily ever after. Told in a raw and vulnerable way, this memoir put me through a full range of emotions and a desire to read more!
While this memoir shares their journey of identity, true self and happiness, it also touches on many important topics including mental health, allyship, transphobia, homophobia, Don’t Ask Don’t Tell, reproductive rights, parenthood, and so much more. They write with such wisdom and experience and really delve into such current issues that can either open or widen your eyes and mind.
Their writing is so open and honest it’s as if Hobson is sitting right across from you bearing their soul and moving your heart. There were so many times that I would stop and reread a passage because their words were so deep and reflective and I wanted to sit with those words a little longer.
I can see this memoir becoming an important resource to people on similar journeys of self discovery and identity. Hobson’s words will certainly be a sense of comfort and a hand to hold on that journey as they help new readers find the strength and take the time needed to emerge into the version they’ve always meant to become. Their words will be a guide, a mentor, a hug to so many and that is a beautiful thing. Everyone deserves the feeling of acceptance, love, belonging, and home.
Whether you are a fan of memoirs, a queer reader, or an ally, make sure you preorder this book or pick it up come March!
January 5, 2023
FELT LIKE HAVING A FRIEND LET YOU READ THEIR DIARY, AND AFTERWARD YOU'RE LIKE WOW, I KNOW AND LOVE YOU SO MUCH MORE BUT I ALSO KNOW AND LOVE MYSELF BETTER, TOO
April 2, 2023
4.5 rounded up. I was delighted when I received an ARC of Coming Home. It took me longer than it should have to read it, because I was reading 2 other books at the same time. Otherwise, I am sure I would have flown through these 147 pages. Because it read like a conversation with a friend.
Sawyer Cole has written a book which many will find relatable, in one way or another. Even though I didn't grow up in America, even though I'm not trans nor non-binary, I recognised myself in many passages. For instance, their religious upbringing, or their love of reading.
Whilst I really loved all their reflections about their childhood, teens and their 20s, I wish this book had been slightly longer. Or perhaps written a year later. Sawyer Cole has met great people online (I won't go into more detail so as not to spoil the book) but I wanted to know more. Have they found offline queer spaces where they feel they belong? What was the reaction of the people in their new town? Maybe a sequel is in the works? I'd read it for sure.
It is so heartwarming to read about how someone can overcome their trauma and tell the reader about it in such a candid way. Exactly what I needed after reading A Little Life. I also LOVED the gratitude expressed towards educators who had a positive impact on their life, and the honesty when discussing mental health and medication.
We need more books like this, and they need to be read by parents and teens alike.
Choice quotes:
"There’s no time stamp on becoming your authentic self."
"We could talk all day about how times have shifted, but the fundamental truths of love and acceptance should be the pillars in a family—including the extended familial branches on the tree."
"there’s beauty in the breakdown if you just allow yourself to break down."
"It's also important to not hand the tools to someone else. You’re the sculptor. Only you have your vision. Only you know the path you want to take. You are the one equipped to build your future however you see it. Handing these tools to someone else oftentimes leads to disaster. Be it parents, siblings, friends, or significant others. Remember, your vision is yours. You can explain it to them, you can share it with them, but don’t let them dictate your future. The tools are yours. The future is yours. Your future is your masterpiece, and yours alone. People can share in it, they can be by your side as you achieve it, but remember that at the end of the day, it’s still yours."
"This is why it’s so important that as adults we create these safe spaces and environments for the younger generations to authentically be themselves without us forcing anything on them, i.e., gender reveals being a big one. This is where the societal constructs begin. This is where we begin to put people in boxes they may not belong in. This is why it’s important that we are educated and knowledgeable about things around us, both as a society and culturally."
"One of my aunts, who now condemns my “behavior”, said she didn’t doubt it because “I came out like a football player at birth.” Whatever that means. I’ve never understood the correlations of sports to male figures as if women and nonbinary/gender non-conforming people cannot be athletic. But again, those small-town vibes are real."
"For those that have kids, we talk so much about needing a village to raise them, but we fail to forget that adults need villages, too. We need to surround ourselves with people who want to see us thrive, not make us uncomfortable. That’s sometimes the hardest part about coming out; not knowing who stays in your village and who leaves—be it willingly or unwillingly."
"“Stop drawing attention to yourself.” “Why do you have to be so different?” “You’re going to get made fun of.” What if, instead of asking those questions or saying those things, we simply let others exist? When one is living authentically, it’s easy to appear different."
Sawyer Cole has written a book which many will find relatable, in one way or another. Even though I didn't grow up in America, even though I'm not trans nor non-binary, I recognised myself in many passages. For instance, their religious upbringing, or their love of reading.
Whilst I really loved all their reflections about their childhood, teens and their 20s, I wish this book had been slightly longer. Or perhaps written a year later. Sawyer Cole has met great people online (I won't go into more detail so as not to spoil the book) but I wanted to know more. Have they found offline queer spaces where they feel they belong? What was the reaction of the people in their new town? Maybe a sequel is in the works? I'd read it for sure.
It is so heartwarming to read about how someone can overcome their trauma and tell the reader about it in such a candid way. Exactly what I needed after reading A Little Life. I also LOVED the gratitude expressed towards educators who had a positive impact on their life, and the honesty when discussing mental health and medication.
We need more books like this, and they need to be read by parents and teens alike.
Choice quotes:
"There’s no time stamp on becoming your authentic self."
"We could talk all day about how times have shifted, but the fundamental truths of love and acceptance should be the pillars in a family—including the extended familial branches on the tree."
"there’s beauty in the breakdown if you just allow yourself to break down."
"It's also important to not hand the tools to someone else. You’re the sculptor. Only you have your vision. Only you know the path you want to take. You are the one equipped to build your future however you see it. Handing these tools to someone else oftentimes leads to disaster. Be it parents, siblings, friends, or significant others. Remember, your vision is yours. You can explain it to them, you can share it with them, but don’t let them dictate your future. The tools are yours. The future is yours. Your future is your masterpiece, and yours alone. People can share in it, they can be by your side as you achieve it, but remember that at the end of the day, it’s still yours."
"This is why it’s so important that as adults we create these safe spaces and environments for the younger generations to authentically be themselves without us forcing anything on them, i.e., gender reveals being a big one. This is where the societal constructs begin. This is where we begin to put people in boxes they may not belong in. This is why it’s important that we are educated and knowledgeable about things around us, both as a society and culturally."
"One of my aunts, who now condemns my “behavior”, said she didn’t doubt it because “I came out like a football player at birth.” Whatever that means. I’ve never understood the correlations of sports to male figures as if women and nonbinary/gender non-conforming people cannot be athletic. But again, those small-town vibes are real."
"For those that have kids, we talk so much about needing a village to raise them, but we fail to forget that adults need villages, too. We need to surround ourselves with people who want to see us thrive, not make us uncomfortable. That’s sometimes the hardest part about coming out; not knowing who stays in your village and who leaves—be it willingly or unwillingly."
"“Stop drawing attention to yourself.” “Why do you have to be so different?” “You’re going to get made fun of.” What if, instead of asking those questions or saying those things, we simply let others exist? When one is living authentically, it’s easy to appear different."
March 7, 2023
*As is the nature of a memoir, many topics are discussed and could be considered trigger warnings for many people.*
Trigger Warnings: alcohol/drinking, homophobia, transphobia, coming out, outing, adoption, abandonment, religion/church, Christianity, cursing, underage drinking, suicide, self harm, suicide ideation, fire arms, therapy, medication, hospitalization, toxic relationship, abuse, military, Don’t Ask Dont Tell, dead naming, Dementia, MS, mental health, brain tumor, smoking, adultery, poop, vomit, autism speaks
Representation: Trans Nonbinary, Gender Nonconforming, Depression, Autism, Anxiety
Coming Home is a memoir by fellow bookstagram creator Sawyer Cole. Coming from a small, rural town in North Carolina, Sawyer grapples with what it means to grow up queer, where the population of queer people was, to the untrained eye, non-existent. Nuanced with the societal constructs of the gender binary, they deconstruct what it means to be queer in an evangelical Southern family. From growing up being a family proclaimed “tomboy,” to joining the Army under Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, Sawyer brings you a collection of essays detailing everything from coming out, to family life to church hurt and everything in between.
This eARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is such a great book of essays! Sawyer did a fantastic job intertwining their life with various social justice issues. I loved this book because it felt so different than a typical memoir. Sawyer really incorporates the problems of our society into their own life rather than act as if they are isolated issues.
The writing is very clear and precise. It also bares honesty and vulnerability like a breathe of fresh air. The book itself isn’t long at all, I finished it in the course of one day. I also loved the overarching theme of coming home- a perfect title for this set of essays. Overall, this is an awesome book and everyone should read it!
Trigger Warnings: alcohol/drinking, homophobia, transphobia, coming out, outing, adoption, abandonment, religion/church, Christianity, cursing, underage drinking, suicide, self harm, suicide ideation, fire arms, therapy, medication, hospitalization, toxic relationship, abuse, military, Don’t Ask Dont Tell, dead naming, Dementia, MS, mental health, brain tumor, smoking, adultery, poop, vomit, autism speaks
Representation: Trans Nonbinary, Gender Nonconforming, Depression, Autism, Anxiety
Coming Home is a memoir by fellow bookstagram creator Sawyer Cole. Coming from a small, rural town in North Carolina, Sawyer grapples with what it means to grow up queer, where the population of queer people was, to the untrained eye, non-existent. Nuanced with the societal constructs of the gender binary, they deconstruct what it means to be queer in an evangelical Southern family. From growing up being a family proclaimed “tomboy,” to joining the Army under Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, Sawyer brings you a collection of essays detailing everything from coming out, to family life to church hurt and everything in between.
This eARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is such a great book of essays! Sawyer did a fantastic job intertwining their life with various social justice issues. I loved this book because it felt so different than a typical memoir. Sawyer really incorporates the problems of our society into their own life rather than act as if they are isolated issues.
The writing is very clear and precise. It also bares honesty and vulnerability like a breathe of fresh air. The book itself isn’t long at all, I finished it in the course of one day. I also loved the overarching theme of coming home- a perfect title for this set of essays. Overall, this is an awesome book and everyone should read it!
February 25, 2023
"Extending grace to someone takes no effort."
Coming Home is the author's debut book about their life's journey thus far. It is raw, it is brave, open and honest...qualities that, if you know the author, make perfect sense. Completely cohesive in nature, this collection of short essays is personal and inviting, and pulls at the heart strings more than once.
Cole describes the pain and hurt associated with coming out to their family, being in an abusive relationship, and serving our country under DADT. They don't sugar coat any of their process in learning and discovering who they are. "...there's beauty in the breakdown if you just allow yourself to break down."
Prevalent throughout Cole's life is the theme of mental health, fitting given their experiences, schooling and eventual career. They speak so eloquently on dealing with and finding the right solutions to their own mental health while acknowledging everyone's path is unique. "Healing isn't always linear." Don't I know it.
Their story is also full of joy and laughter. Reading how they found their happy ever after made me smile, because I literally remember that moment in time. What Cole probably doesn't know is Alisha messaging me "I think I have a crush and it's someone you know." in the early days of them talking. I was wheezing with laughter reading about their first "real" parenting moment with their youngest child, because yes, we've all been there.
If you haven't already pre-ordered this book, please head over to Cole's bio. It is so beautifully written and done so well I felt like Cole and I were just having a conversation.
I don't give stars to memoirs, but I will say I loved this one.
"This is your reminder to take care of yourself always."
Coming Home is the author's debut book about their life's journey thus far. It is raw, it is brave, open and honest...qualities that, if you know the author, make perfect sense. Completely cohesive in nature, this collection of short essays is personal and inviting, and pulls at the heart strings more than once.
Cole describes the pain and hurt associated with coming out to their family, being in an abusive relationship, and serving our country under DADT. They don't sugar coat any of their process in learning and discovering who they are. "...there's beauty in the breakdown if you just allow yourself to break down."
Prevalent throughout Cole's life is the theme of mental health, fitting given their experiences, schooling and eventual career. They speak so eloquently on dealing with and finding the right solutions to their own mental health while acknowledging everyone's path is unique. "Healing isn't always linear." Don't I know it.
Their story is also full of joy and laughter. Reading how they found their happy ever after made me smile, because I literally remember that moment in time. What Cole probably doesn't know is Alisha messaging me "I think I have a crush and it's someone you know." in the early days of them talking. I was wheezing with laughter reading about their first "real" parenting moment with their youngest child, because yes, we've all been there.
If you haven't already pre-ordered this book, please head over to Cole's bio. It is so beautifully written and done so well I felt like Cole and I were just having a conversation.
I don't give stars to memoirs, but I will say I loved this one.
"This is your reminder to take care of yourself always."
April 3, 2023
There is a beautiful unforgiving rawness in the words and stories that Sawyer tells within these pages. I, as a tran non-binary person myself resonate with much of the story.
Calling someone’s memoir a “story” feels incorrect, as it’s their life that they have lived and created. It’s so much more than a “story.” It’s life.
I digress. While I resonate with Sawyer, it’s okay to recognize that we all, as queer people, have our own experiences, some quite unfortunate, some of us unfortunately also have privileges that others don’t, and trauma that we face, and while our experiences are different, they are also similar, familiar. I can resonate, understand, and respect, while also recognizing the distinctions.
We are all valid, even if we try to minimize our own experience. We are allowed to take up space.
I felt closer to myself in reading Coming Home. I learned about myself as I learned about Sawyer and their life. I opened my mind and expanded my view through the lens of someone else’s perspective. I related to, and felt, the pain, the hurt, the longing, the love, the acceptance, and the truth of it all together. It reminded me of my own hurt, my own trauma, my pain, but also reminded me of all the acceptance and love I have in my life. How grateful I am and how privileged I am to have that.
Coming Home reminded me that I deserve love, that I can have love, and that I deserve to come home. Especially as I come closer to myself, navigating the world once again as a single person, after a toxic/harmful seven year relationship that ended traumatically.
I am coming home.
Raw, beautifully captivating truth of what being an LGBTQIA+ individual (and even finding out later in life) grows through.
Phenomenal read. This will be in my head for a long time, I will be recommending and suggesting this read to family, friends, and coworkers.
Calling someone’s memoir a “story” feels incorrect, as it’s their life that they have lived and created. It’s so much more than a “story.” It’s life.
I digress. While I resonate with Sawyer, it’s okay to recognize that we all, as queer people, have our own experiences, some quite unfortunate, some of us unfortunately also have privileges that others don’t, and trauma that we face, and while our experiences are different, they are also similar, familiar. I can resonate, understand, and respect, while also recognizing the distinctions.
We are all valid, even if we try to minimize our own experience. We are allowed to take up space.
I felt closer to myself in reading Coming Home. I learned about myself as I learned about Sawyer and their life. I opened my mind and expanded my view through the lens of someone else’s perspective. I related to, and felt, the pain, the hurt, the longing, the love, the acceptance, and the truth of it all together. It reminded me of my own hurt, my own trauma, my pain, but also reminded me of all the acceptance and love I have in my life. How grateful I am and how privileged I am to have that.
Coming Home reminded me that I deserve love, that I can have love, and that I deserve to come home. Especially as I come closer to myself, navigating the world once again as a single person, after a toxic/harmful seven year relationship that ended traumatically.
I am coming home.
Raw, beautifully captivating truth of what being an LGBTQIA+ individual (and even finding out later in life) grows through.
Phenomenal read. This will be in my head for a long time, I will be recommending and suggesting this read to family, friends, and coworkers.
Read
July 11, 2023An important, necessary and impactful set of essays.
“Coming home to yourself is constantly coming out if you’re anything but cisgender and heterosexual.”
This is one of those memoirs that you read and can immediately see how its healing impact will translate to others, particularly those that are foraging this same path. I read this and immediately knew I needed to get copies for the youth I work with struggling to find their way and don’t have access to healthy, positive and relatable voices like Sawyers. Their mental health advocacy here is on point as well.
This will also be so important for those trying to better understand the multilayered, heavy and taxing process of finding one’s way through gender identity, sexuality, family, relationships, religion and so much more. I appreciated the voice on seeing their privilege as well in navigating this.
Obviously there are trigger warnings, as there are with most memoirs. But they were handled with caution and grace, and I loved the beginning sharing the good fortune of a happy ending.
“Coming home to yourself is constantly coming out if you’re anything but cisgender and heterosexual.”
This is one of those memoirs that you read and can immediately see how its healing impact will translate to others, particularly those that are foraging this same path. I read this and immediately knew I needed to get copies for the youth I work with struggling to find their way and don’t have access to healthy, positive and relatable voices like Sawyers. Their mental health advocacy here is on point as well.
This will also be so important for those trying to better understand the multilayered, heavy and taxing process of finding one’s way through gender identity, sexuality, family, relationships, religion and so much more. I appreciated the voice on seeing their privilege as well in navigating this.
Obviously there are trigger warnings, as there are with most memoirs. But they were handled with caution and grace, and I loved the beginning sharing the good fortune of a happy ending.
March 23, 2023
Wow!!! I don’t like to give memoir star ratings but if I did, allll the stars would go to Sawyer Cole Hobson for Coming Home!
While reading this it felt like Sawyer and I were friends and they were filling me in on their origin story. I laughed a lot more than I expected to, Sawyer’s personality shines! There were moments I wanted to hug Sawyer for what happened to them and times I wanted to give hugs because I was so proud. So many things resigned with me and so many things have taught me so I can do better. I’m going to order a physical copy so I can go back and highlight so many lines of the book.
Also, can we give a round of applause for #bookstagrams cutest couple?!
It’s been such a pleasure to watch Sawyer’s writing process through their bookstagram and an honor to be able to be one of the first to read Coming Home. Thank you for the opportunity to both Sawyer and @katerockbooktours 💜
While reading this it felt like Sawyer and I were friends and they were filling me in on their origin story. I laughed a lot more than I expected to, Sawyer’s personality shines! There were moments I wanted to hug Sawyer for what happened to them and times I wanted to give hugs because I was so proud. So many things resigned with me and so many things have taught me so I can do better. I’m going to order a physical copy so I can go back and highlight so many lines of the book.
Also, can we give a round of applause for #bookstagrams cutest couple?!
It’s been such a pleasure to watch Sawyer’s writing process through their bookstagram and an honor to be able to be one of the first to read Coming Home. Thank you for the opportunity to both Sawyer and @katerockbooktours 💜
February 29, 2024
Humorous and, at times, heartbreaking, Coming Home offers poignant observations on friendships, family, closure, and what it means to belong both inside and outside of yourself. Cole perfectly captures the feeling of learning who you are. They share their story with the kind of candor and humor and that pulls you in. This book is a love letter to and a balm for anyone who has ever embarked on a journey to find themselves.
April 14, 2023
Absolutely incredible read. Highly recommend for compassionate reminders to love yourself and your journey, and an abundance of relatability for living loudly queer and co-parenting in a messy world. This book was more than I expected and everything I wanted.
February 13, 2023
Sawyer's memoir is one that will stick with you and touch your heart forever. To say they have experienced trauma is an understatement.
Growing up queer in a society that is not accepting of individual differences, one where heterosexuality is the standard, and others are shunned and dismissed, is frustrating and maddening. Throughout their life, Sawyer experienced things that people shouldn't have to experience, but they grew, they learned, they persevered, they thrived, they fell in love, they lived, and they taught so many of us so many valuable life lessons along the way.
“We’re no different, you and me. We’re more alike than you think. Please fight for us, too.”
THANK YOU SAWYER FOR THIS! Thank you for your transparency. Thank you for your willingness to be honest and share your journey. You have impacted so many, and so many more will be touched by reading your story.
This book should be in EVERY classroom, EVERY library, EVERYWHERE youth are, because they are going through this, and need someone that has been through it and understands.
Sawyer, you are saving lives, friend, and I am so proud of you and who you are!
Growing up queer in a society that is not accepting of individual differences, one where heterosexuality is the standard, and others are shunned and dismissed, is frustrating and maddening. Throughout their life, Sawyer experienced things that people shouldn't have to experience, but they grew, they learned, they persevered, they thrived, they fell in love, they lived, and they taught so many of us so many valuable life lessons along the way.
“We’re no different, you and me. We’re more alike than you think. Please fight for us, too.”
THANK YOU SAWYER FOR THIS! Thank you for your transparency. Thank you for your willingness to be honest and share your journey. You have impacted so many, and so many more will be touched by reading your story.
This book should be in EVERY classroom, EVERY library, EVERYWHERE youth are, because they are going through this, and need someone that has been through it and understands.
Sawyer, you are saving lives, friend, and I am so proud of you and who you are!
Read
March 31, 2023*I don't give star ratings to memoirs so the lack of stars doesn't mean anything.
More thoughts to come
More thoughts to come
April 17, 2023
Small-town LGBTQIA+ folx need more voices, and I’m glad this one is out there — the book equivalent of the “it gets better” campaign, which our LGBTQIA+ kids need now more than ever.
April 6, 2023
Coming Home was such a personal story and one that I am thankful that fellow bookstagrammer shared with us. It was so moving and emotional. I also grew up in a small rural NC town and I will be sharing this with all my friends. I know I will be thinking about this book for quite some time.
March 24, 2023
4.5
I’m about to drop from exhaustion and in no shape to write a proper post/review, but I finished my first book for the #transrightsreadathon last night and @colesbooknook ‘s debut deserves all the love.
•
Sawyer, you made this momma cry, then laugh, then cry some more, but mostly you made me wanna drive to Wisconsin and give you a hug.
I won’t.
Don’t worry @alishareadsgoodbooks 😉 I’m not a stalker, I swear. But if I can ever make it to an author signing-you’ll be having those, I have no doubt-I’ll be there with open arms🤗
Coming Home is full of wisdom and humor, but it touches on a lot of painful topics so if you pick this one up I do recommend reading the content warnings thoughtfully included at the beginning.
I think it will make an impact on anyone who reads it. I felt something with each chapter, but one quote has stuck with me since I closed the book…
“Suicide is never selfish. It’s the final act of depression. It’s the final act of emotions too big for a body that isn’t well-equipped.”
Mental health is a struggle for so many, especially those in the LGBTQIA+ community. Love without judgement or conditions may not heal the underlying condition, but it can make a huge difference in someone’s life; it can keep them alive. We can all use that reminder💛
I’m about to drop from exhaustion and in no shape to write a proper post/review, but I finished my first book for the #transrightsreadathon last night and @colesbooknook ‘s debut deserves all the love.
•
Sawyer, you made this momma cry, then laugh, then cry some more, but mostly you made me wanna drive to Wisconsin and give you a hug.
I won’t.
Don’t worry @alishareadsgoodbooks 😉 I’m not a stalker, I swear. But if I can ever make it to an author signing-you’ll be having those, I have no doubt-I’ll be there with open arms🤗
Coming Home is full of wisdom and humor, but it touches on a lot of painful topics so if you pick this one up I do recommend reading the content warnings thoughtfully included at the beginning.
I think it will make an impact on anyone who reads it. I felt something with each chapter, but one quote has stuck with me since I closed the book…
“Suicide is never selfish. It’s the final act of depression. It’s the final act of emotions too big for a body that isn’t well-equipped.”
Mental health is a struggle for so many, especially those in the LGBTQIA+ community. Love without judgement or conditions may not heal the underlying condition, but it can make a huge difference in someone’s life; it can keep them alive. We can all use that reminder💛
December 7, 2022
I read this back in September as part of Sawyer's street team.
Their book is being released in March and I encourage all of you to pre-order it.
You can even get a signed paperback if you pre-order!!!
This is open, vulnerable and provides space for everyone to find a piece of themselves in it.
Whether you are queer and out, still waiting for your moment, or just want to be a better ally, this is the book for you.
Much love to Sawyer for my ARC, can't wait for my signed pre-order to arrive.
Their book is being released in March and I encourage all of you to pre-order it.
You can even get a signed paperback if you pre-order!!!
This is open, vulnerable and provides space for everyone to find a piece of themselves in it.
Whether you are queer and out, still waiting for your moment, or just want to be a better ally, this is the book for you.
Much love to Sawyer for my ARC, can't wait for my signed pre-order to arrive.
Read
April 2, 2023A collection of essays on everything from family to identity to bookstagram to reproductive justice. This made me laugh, it made me sad and angry, it made me go “aww.”
Sawyer Cole, congrats on publishing your memoir and thanks for sharing your story with us!
Sawyer Cole, congrats on publishing your memoir and thanks for sharing your story with us!
December 31, 2023
I was so excited to read Coming Home by Sawyer Cole Hobson. This deeply personal memoir is written by trans non-binary Bookstagrammer @colesbooknook - follow them if you aren’t already.
I appreciated that Sawyer started their book with a note saying that the book “was born out of the content warnings” from their life. They go on to say: “…there are sweet and hilarious moments to be had, but the point of this book is to be a beacon of light to those like me, those who come from small, rural towns where they never quite fit in.” Even though I’m not the target audience of this book, I learned so much and it will help me be a better ally to the queer and trans community.
I am so happy for Sawyer - that they have been able to come home to themselves and are building a beautiful life and family.
⚠️CW: abandonment by parent, homophobia and transphobia, suicide and suicide ideation, mental illness, discrimination from Church, intimate partner abuse
March 4, 2023
How do you even begin to write a review on the most beautiful memoir ever written? I don’t know either. But here’s what I do know: there are many “greats” in LGBTQ+ history such as Marsha P. Johnson, Harvey Milk, Larry Johnson, and significantly more. But there’s one other name that I believe needs to be added to that hall of fame: Sawyer Cole Hobson. I have been following Sawyer’s Instagram account for some time now, and their message is unwavering: “You are loved and worthy and deserve to take up space. You deserve to live authentically. You deserve to have people in your corner cheering you on so loudly your eardrums burst. You deserve to come home.” Sawyer has made it their life’s mission to extend the very inclusivity that they were denied the greater part of their life.
Coming Home wasn’t an easy read, and honestly, it shouldn’t be. While the book isn’t very long, this is not the book to speed read. I found myself pausing time and time again to let the author’s words resonate deep within the core of my being. I also found many instances where I connected to the author on a deeper level than, “hey, I follow that person on Instagram.”
While this whole book is absolutely wonderful, there were some one liners that just gutted me. One in particular was, “There’s truly no hate like Christian love.” I couldn’t breathe after reading that line, and after reading it, I just sobbed. As someone who has recently come out of a Christian fundamentalist church, I felt Sawyer’s struggle in church to my very core—from the way they were shunned for being their authentic self, to the way they seemed to lose part of their stability and had to figure out who they were without the church and church community. But, in true Sawyer fashion, they never once picked apart the religion or the actual church itself. They just explained what happened in their life to cause them to set out on a different path.
Another part that I couldn’t help smiling and gushing through was the much anticipated chapter about them finding their soulmate. But what I found even more laughable and entertaining was how much their love story paralleled to mine and my husband’s. More often times than not, I was thinking, oh my gosh, that happened with us too! It was seriously unreal.
There is so much more I could speak (or write) endlessly about in regards to this memoir, but I will end with this quote that encapsulates the author (and this memoir) so perfectly: “Sawyer Cole is like a phoenix rising out of the ashes. A re-birthing. A beautiful beginning. Sawyer Cole was born in the South in spite of, not because of.”
Welcome home, Sawyer!
Coming Home wasn’t an easy read, and honestly, it shouldn’t be. While the book isn’t very long, this is not the book to speed read. I found myself pausing time and time again to let the author’s words resonate deep within the core of my being. I also found many instances where I connected to the author on a deeper level than, “hey, I follow that person on Instagram.”
While this whole book is absolutely wonderful, there were some one liners that just gutted me. One in particular was, “There’s truly no hate like Christian love.” I couldn’t breathe after reading that line, and after reading it, I just sobbed. As someone who has recently come out of a Christian fundamentalist church, I felt Sawyer’s struggle in church to my very core—from the way they were shunned for being their authentic self, to the way they seemed to lose part of their stability and had to figure out who they were without the church and church community. But, in true Sawyer fashion, they never once picked apart the religion or the actual church itself. They just explained what happened in their life to cause them to set out on a different path.
Another part that I couldn’t help smiling and gushing through was the much anticipated chapter about them finding their soulmate. But what I found even more laughable and entertaining was how much their love story paralleled to mine and my husband’s. More often times than not, I was thinking, oh my gosh, that happened with us too! It was seriously unreal.
There is so much more I could speak (or write) endlessly about in regards to this memoir, but I will end with this quote that encapsulates the author (and this memoir) so perfectly: “Sawyer Cole is like a phoenix rising out of the ashes. A re-birthing. A beautiful beginning. Sawyer Cole was born in the South in spite of, not because of.”
Welcome home, Sawyer!
March 3, 2023
First, thank you Sawyer for letting me be a part of this wild ride since the conception of your book! I’m so happy to see your words in a book. Your writing is beautiful, your story is powerful, and emotional, and had me become an emotional baby.
I can’t put into words how much people need to read this book. They just need to read it. The world needs to read it, and have a better understanding of what it’s like to be queer. What it’s like to be a non-binary trans person. What it’s like to just try and be yourself and feel normal.
You my friend are a strong individual, and I’m so grateful to have you in my life.
Below are quotes that hit me hard, and to my core. Some had me in tears because i felt it, in my own journey in coming home.
“I became so tired of hearing the deafening silence of teardrops scream silently down my face. There’s beauty in the breakdown. I just had to break down first.”
“As a queer kid, you are forced to be this heretosexual being that isn’t you, and when you come out, you finally get that childhood. You get to explore yourself and sexuality that your heteronormative counterparts already did in their adolescence.”
“Sometimes I’m downright angry at the adults in my life who didn’t provide me with that type of safe environment.”
“My story is to every queer person in the South who feels unseen. Who’s had to shrink themselves to feel accepted. Who still shrinks at the thought of becoming their authentic self.”
“Growth is important.”
“I constantly tried to fit into boxes that weren’t designed for me to fit into.”
“Nuanced with societal constructs of gender identity and the sense of self, coming out is anything but easy. The fears surrounding coming out are like waking up every day and looking in the mirror to see the shell of a person staring back at you.”
“Coming out is like knowing you’re on the verge of being the freest you have ever felt but not taking the step because you can’t see in front of you from the heavy fog.”
“There’s something so cathartic yet frightening about having your deepest secret exposed.”
“Coming out again and again and again (and even again), is something straight people take for granted that they don’t have to endure.”
I can’t put into words how much people need to read this book. They just need to read it. The world needs to read it, and have a better understanding of what it’s like to be queer. What it’s like to be a non-binary trans person. What it’s like to just try and be yourself and feel normal.
You my friend are a strong individual, and I’m so grateful to have you in my life.
Below are quotes that hit me hard, and to my core. Some had me in tears because i felt it, in my own journey in coming home.
“I became so tired of hearing the deafening silence of teardrops scream silently down my face. There’s beauty in the breakdown. I just had to break down first.”
“As a queer kid, you are forced to be this heretosexual being that isn’t you, and when you come out, you finally get that childhood. You get to explore yourself and sexuality that your heteronormative counterparts already did in their adolescence.”
“Sometimes I’m downright angry at the adults in my life who didn’t provide me with that type of safe environment.”
“My story is to every queer person in the South who feels unseen. Who’s had to shrink themselves to feel accepted. Who still shrinks at the thought of becoming their authentic self.”
“Growth is important.”
“I constantly tried to fit into boxes that weren’t designed for me to fit into.”
“Nuanced with societal constructs of gender identity and the sense of self, coming out is anything but easy. The fears surrounding coming out are like waking up every day and looking in the mirror to see the shell of a person staring back at you.”
“Coming out is like knowing you’re on the verge of being the freest you have ever felt but not taking the step because you can’t see in front of you from the heavy fog.”
“There’s something so cathartic yet frightening about having your deepest secret exposed.”
“Coming out again and again and again (and even again), is something straight people take for granted that they don’t have to endure.”
March 18, 2023
I don't usually give memoirs star ratings because it feels cheap to rate someone's life experiences, but I also know star ratings can help make marginalized authors' work get the attention it deserves. So my rating is in terms of writing skills and how they approached topics and not based on my feelings on their life experiences, if that makes sense? For this being a debut book, I thought the writing was pretty good, and knowing this author through instagram, it felt very natural like they were just having a conversation with me as I read their writing. I think any critiques on the writing style I may have are all minor things Sawyer will continue to improve on as they continue to grow as a writer. Loved the content warnings at the beginning of the book (can all authors please start including these?!)! This memoir really gave a great insight into Sawyer's life and how they came into their own identity and all the nuances that came along with discovering that.
I really enjoyed the mental health rep throughout as well, it's so important to take care of our mental health and it allowed Sawyer the ability to discover a minor tumor that had it went unchecked could have caused serious health issues later in life. The way Sawyer always acknowledged their privilege as a white person and emphasized that BIPOC LGBTQIA+ individuals often experience similar struggles at worse rates/levels was refreshing to see as well. I have followed Sawyer and Alisha since before they announced their relationship on booksta, and it was so sweet to be able to learn more about their "meet-cute" and how their relationship has blossomed.
To know Sawyer Cole is to know they truly put their heart into what they do, and this memoir was no different than anything else. I highly enjoyed and recommend it! I can only imagine how impactful this will be for Trans-nonbinary young adults and other LGBTQIA+ individuals and am so proud of them for putting their story into the world.
I really enjoyed the mental health rep throughout as well, it's so important to take care of our mental health and it allowed Sawyer the ability to discover a minor tumor that had it went unchecked could have caused serious health issues later in life. The way Sawyer always acknowledged their privilege as a white person and emphasized that BIPOC LGBTQIA+ individuals often experience similar struggles at worse rates/levels was refreshing to see as well. I have followed Sawyer and Alisha since before they announced their relationship on booksta, and it was so sweet to be able to learn more about their "meet-cute" and how their relationship has blossomed.
To know Sawyer Cole is to know they truly put their heart into what they do, and this memoir was no different than anything else. I highly enjoyed and recommend it! I can only imagine how impactful this will be for Trans-nonbinary young adults and other LGBTQIA+ individuals and am so proud of them for putting their story into the world.
Read
March 27, 2023🏳️⚧️✨ Trans Rights Readathon Review ✨🏳️⚧️
Coming Home
By Sawyer Cole Hobson @colesbooknook
Available now!
🏳️⚧️Read this if you like:
-memoirs
-queer books
-real, vulnerable talk
-a lot of laughs
🏳️⚧️Synopsis:
Sawyer Cole Hobson gives a raw, real view into their life- from coming out (the first time, then again and again), losing family members, friends, and what they thought was love, to gaining insight into who they truly are, who their actual family and friends are, and finding true, unconditional love for themselves and in their partner.
🏳️⚧️My thoughts:
As an ally, I can only imagine the struggles that my LGBTQIA+ friends go through, but I got a good idea of how hard it can be while reading this book. Some of the issues Cole describes are so heartbreaking, and I applaud their vulnerability in being able to share the hard parts, along with the good. The good parts made me smile SO big, and I literally laughed out loud at the Golden Girls reference and the $h!tpocalyspe. 🤣🤣 I giggled (in solidarity, not about their pain!) when I read the part about crying in a Target bathroom, because I’ve been there too, for different reasons. It just goes to show, just as Cole says again and again in the book, that even though we are so different, we all feel, we all matter, we do share similar experiences. I loved the recurrent theme of just letting people be their true, authentic selves. Just because you don’t understand who they are doesn’t mean they don’t! 💙🏳️⚧️
Bravo, @colesbooknook! Also, Alisha sounds hilarious and super cool, and while I don’t know her personally, I’m glad you found a good one…THE one! Congratulations to you both! 🫶
❓What was the last LGBTQIA+ book you read? I have several I can recommend if you’re interested!
⚠️ CW (list may not be exhaustive): dead-naming, homophobia, transphobia, alcohol use, outing, suicide/suicidal ideation, adoption, religion, guns, mental health, brain tumor, adultery, domestic abuse
Coming Home
By Sawyer Cole Hobson @colesbooknook
Available now!
🏳️⚧️Read this if you like:
-memoirs
-queer books
-real, vulnerable talk
-a lot of laughs
🏳️⚧️Synopsis:
Sawyer Cole Hobson gives a raw, real view into their life- from coming out (the first time, then again and again), losing family members, friends, and what they thought was love, to gaining insight into who they truly are, who their actual family and friends are, and finding true, unconditional love for themselves and in their partner.
🏳️⚧️My thoughts:
As an ally, I can only imagine the struggles that my LGBTQIA+ friends go through, but I got a good idea of how hard it can be while reading this book. Some of the issues Cole describes are so heartbreaking, and I applaud their vulnerability in being able to share the hard parts, along with the good. The good parts made me smile SO big, and I literally laughed out loud at the Golden Girls reference and the $h!tpocalyspe. 🤣🤣 I giggled (in solidarity, not about their pain!) when I read the part about crying in a Target bathroom, because I’ve been there too, for different reasons. It just goes to show, just as Cole says again and again in the book, that even though we are so different, we all feel, we all matter, we do share similar experiences. I loved the recurrent theme of just letting people be their true, authentic selves. Just because you don’t understand who they are doesn’t mean they don’t! 💙🏳️⚧️
Bravo, @colesbooknook! Also, Alisha sounds hilarious and super cool, and while I don’t know her personally, I’m glad you found a good one…THE one! Congratulations to you both! 🫶
❓What was the last LGBTQIA+ book you read? I have several I can recommend if you’re interested!
⚠️ CW (list may not be exhaustive): dead-naming, homophobia, transphobia, alcohol use, outing, suicide/suicidal ideation, adoption, religion, guns, mental health, brain tumor, adultery, domestic abuse
Read
February 26, 2023Wow. This book is so well written. I was blown away from the very beginning. Cole's writing is so raw and honest. They have a unique ability at putting things into words. I highly recommend reading this.
If you don't know Cole, (which you should, seriously go follow them), they grew up queer in a small town. In this memoir they open up about so many aspects of their life from coming out to their family, finding their true self, to finding the love of their life and getting their dream family. They also share about how hard moments have been being part of the LGBTQ+ community, and how they get lost/forgotten in the fight. We as a society are failing at fighting for them, we need to do better. Like Cole says in the book "we're more alike than you think." Which is so true, at the end of the day we are people who love and want to be loved in return. Everyone, and I mean everyone, should be treated with love and kindness.
Cole talks about their healing journey and how hard it can be...but they also remind us that it's okay to breakdown. One of the quotes that stuck with me was: "there's beauty in the breakdown if you just allow yourself to break down." It's okay to not be okay sometimes. Cole also reminds us that we need to live in the moment and let go of people who only are meant to be here for a season. Not everyone needs a seat at your table.
Another thing I have to comment on, Cole shares a story about their bonus child...I'm not going to say what it is, because you have to read it. But know, I was laughing SO HARD.
If you don't know Cole, (which you should, seriously go follow them), they grew up queer in a small town. In this memoir they open up about so many aspects of their life from coming out to their family, finding their true self, to finding the love of their life and getting their dream family. They also share about how hard moments have been being part of the LGBTQ+ community, and how they get lost/forgotten in the fight. We as a society are failing at fighting for them, we need to do better. Like Cole says in the book "we're more alike than you think." Which is so true, at the end of the day we are people who love and want to be loved in return. Everyone, and I mean everyone, should be treated with love and kindness.
Cole talks about their healing journey and how hard it can be...but they also remind us that it's okay to breakdown. One of the quotes that stuck with me was: "there's beauty in the breakdown if you just allow yourself to break down." It's okay to not be okay sometimes. Cole also reminds us that we need to live in the moment and let go of people who only are meant to be here for a season. Not everyone needs a seat at your table.
Another thing I have to comment on, Cole shares a story about their bonus child...I'm not going to say what it is, because you have to read it. But know, I was laughing SO HARD.
March 28, 2023
Coming Home, Sawyer Cole Hobson
Out Now!
Coming Home is the brilliant, raw and vulnerable memoir from Sawyer Cole Hobson @colesbooknook
Sawyer Cole shares their experiences growing up in a small town in the southern US, raised in the Christian Faith and the church, and their journey grappling with and pushing against societal and familial constructs of hétéronormative and gender binary expectations.
Sawyer Cole lays bare their feelings of frustration and internal struggles; loneliness & abandonment; grief and loss through a series of poignant essays. Prompting readers to critically reflect and engage in appreciative inquiry on an array of issues such as sexuality & gender expansiveness; state and government conformity laws and body regulations; our role in being inclusive; and what it means from them to finally be at place where they are finally “coming home.”
Filled with so much depth and unapologetic realness, I found myself tabbing, highlighting, writing IN the book, and making notes on how I might be able to use this powerful resource to support the youth I work with in foster care. Often due to their desire to truly find a way to be their authentic selves and also find a place to call home.
I cried. I laughed. I learned.
I’m so very deeply proud of Sawyer Cole and am honoured to hold their words in my hands. My friend, you have helped me in so many ways - personally and professionally.
Congratulations on publishing your brilliant mémoire!! I wish you so much success!
Out Now!
Coming Home is the brilliant, raw and vulnerable memoir from Sawyer Cole Hobson @colesbooknook
Sawyer Cole shares their experiences growing up in a small town in the southern US, raised in the Christian Faith and the church, and their journey grappling with and pushing against societal and familial constructs of hétéronormative and gender binary expectations.
Sawyer Cole lays bare their feelings of frustration and internal struggles; loneliness & abandonment; grief and loss through a series of poignant essays. Prompting readers to critically reflect and engage in appreciative inquiry on an array of issues such as sexuality & gender expansiveness; state and government conformity laws and body regulations; our role in being inclusive; and what it means from them to finally be at place where they are finally “coming home.”
Filled with so much depth and unapologetic realness, I found myself tabbing, highlighting, writing IN the book, and making notes on how I might be able to use this powerful resource to support the youth I work with in foster care. Often due to their desire to truly find a way to be their authentic selves and also find a place to call home.
I cried. I laughed. I learned.
I’m so very deeply proud of Sawyer Cole and am honoured to hold their words in my hands. My friend, you have helped me in so many ways - personally and professionally.
Congratulations on publishing your brilliant mémoire!! I wish you so much success!
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