Trans people have long been neglected by the mainstream, leaving few role models for our children and young adults. Luckily, we’ve found 6 amazing books with a trans person centre stage. These authors have perfectly captured the strong spirit that transgender people have and turned that into strong character traits.
The battle against stigma and bullying continues in these novels but the strength and persistence of these characters is truly inspiration. These are in no way pessimistic downer books – they’re a great way to stay strong in times of trouble.
#1 Golden Boy by Abigail Tartellin
Golden Boy is a raw, brave book about a little boy who isn’t quite like the other boys. It’s a fascinating and heartbreaking portrait of family life, coming-of-age, abuse and sexuality. At once gripping, painful, frustrating and beautiful, it’s impossible not to be touched by this astounding story.
Prices across many e-commerce websites may vary, be sure to compare to get the best deal:
- Amazon (International)
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#2 If I Was Your Girl by Meredith Russo
Amanda, who used to be Andrew is the new girl in school and wants to fit in. As time goes on she meets grant and starts to develop a relationship with him but doesn’t want to to tell him her deepest secret.. As they spend more time together, she realizes she is losing so much by guarding he heart. But she fears if G finds out who she really is, he may leave. A book about teenage identity, acceptance, and relationships.
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- Amazon (International)
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- Waterstones (International)
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#3 Jamie Is Jamie by Afsaneh Moradian
This book is an insightful read for children who need to break the gender-divide. Moradian helps kids learn from a young age that you can play with whatever you want and it doesn’t need to speak to your sexual orientation or gender. Jamie, the transgender main character, challenges stereotypes in a fun and accessible way. An ideal book for teachers and parents.
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- Amazon (International)
- The Book Depository (International)
- Waterstones (International)
- Audible (International)
#4 The Sex Gates by Darrell Bain
One day thousands of interdimensional gates suddenly appear on Earth. Their exact origin is a mystery. When the sick go through, they’re healed. If the person who goes through is old, he or she becomes young.
Arbitrarily, sometimes the person who goes through disappears. Men become women and women become men.
In addition, the change is permanent. You also can’t go through a second time. If you do, you disappear, never to be heard from again.
This science fiction novel explores gender and identity against the backdrop of a world that has suddenly changed.
Prices across many e-commerce websites may vary, be sure to compare to get the best deal:
- Amazon (International)
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- Waterstones (International)
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#5 Trans Shift: What Lies Behind
Trans Shift is a sensational story of freedom, redemption and discovering passionate love without boundaries. With plenty of intense encounters, graphic details, and emotional moments,
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- Amazon (International)
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#6 The Art of Being Normal by Lisa Williamson
One of the most popular Young Adult books of the year, this novel transverses the life of two American teens who are dealing with being and becoming transgender. It’s a beautiful story about how humans can help each other get through the toughest parts of life by simply being there for one another.
Prices across many e-commerce websites may vary, be sure to compare to get the best deal:
- Amazon (International)
- The Book Depository (International)
- Waterstones (International)
- Audible (International)
Stefanie Lesser from Hope & Love Radio
Adina Mahalli from EnlightenedReality
James Cobb from The Dream Recovery System
Osama from Decrum
Ethan Lichtenberg from QuickQuote