Kira Herdman

In this post I will be going through what I think are essential reading for any transgender person, or an ally of a transgender person. I have done a review of each book in turn then a conclusion at the end of this post.

The Transgender Issue by Shon Faye

Shon Faye’s The Transgender Issue: An Argument for Justice is a groundbreaking exploration of systemic oppression faced by transgender people, particularly in the UK. The book critiques media narratives, transphobia, and societal structures, addressing issues like healthcare, housing insecurity, employment discrimination, and violence. Faye adopts an intersectional approach, centering the experiences of marginalised trans individuals while rejecting a monolithic “trans experience”.

Described as both compassionate and uncompromising, it combines rigorous research with personal insights, offering a manifesto for trans liberation rather than mere equality. Critics hail it as essential reading for fostering justice and solidarity.

Key topics covered in the book include:

• Intersectionality and Marginalization: Faye moves beyond the narrow framing of “bathroom debates” and sports controversies to address systemic issues such as healthcare access, housing insecurity, employment discrimination, police violence, and the criminalization of sex work. She prioritizes the voices of the most marginalized trans individuals, particularly those impacted by race, class, and economic inequality .
• Critique of Media Narratives: The book critiques the media’s role in perpetuating transphobia and misrepresenting trans lives. Faye highlights how mainstream coverage often reduces trans issues to polarizing debates, ignoring the lived realities of trans people .
• Focus on Liberation: Rather than advocating for assimilation or equality within existing structures, Faye calls for radical societal change that benefits not only trans people but all marginalized groups. She links trans liberation to broader struggles against systemic oppression .
• Personal Insights: Although not a memoir, Faye draws on her own experiences as a white, middle-class trans woman to illustrate her points while acknowledging her relative privilege within the trans community.

What’s the T by Juno Dawson

“What’s the T?” by Juno Dawson is a candid and accessible guide to transgender and non-binary identities, aimed primarily at teens but valuable for anyone seeking to learn about these topics. It explores identity, trans history, relationships, and transitioning, blending humor with practical advice. The book includes contributions from trans and non-binary voices. While praised for its inclusivity and conversational tone, some critics note oversimplifications on certain topics like asexuality. Overall, it’s an engaging resource for understanding trans life in the 21st century. I really enjoyed reading this book.

Key topics covered in the book include:

• Understanding Identity: Exploration of transgender and non-binary identities, labels, and terminology.
• Trans History and Politics: A look at the history of transgender identity and gender politics.
• Coming Out and Transitioning: Advice on coming out, choosing names/pronouns, and navigating transition, including gender confirmation surgery.
• Relationships and Sex: Guidance on relationships, sex, and dealing with transphobia.
• Diverse Voices: Contributions from trans/non-binary individuals and profiles of notable figures like Laverne Cox and Janet Mock.
• Resources for Parents and Allies: A dedicated section for parents with practical advice and accessible definitions.

This book is gay by Juno Dawson

“This Book is Gay” is a groundbreaking non-fiction book by Juno Dawson that provides a comprehensive, frank, and humorous guide to LGBTQ+ experiences. First published in the UK in 2014, the book serves as an inclusive manual for young people exploring their sexual identity and understanding LGBTQ+ life.

Key topics covered in the book include:

• Purpose: Offers an uncensored look at growing up LGBTQ+
• Audience: Aimed at teens, parents, and anyone curious about LGBTQ+ experiences
• Content: Covers topics like coming out, stereotypes, queer sex, politics, and personal stories

Becoming Nicole by Amy Ellis Nutt

“Becoming Nicole” by Amy Ellis Nutt is a powerful and emotional account of a transgender girl’s journey and her family’s transformation. The book explores Nicole Maines’ transition from Wyatt, her twin brother’s support, and her parents’ evolving acceptance—particularly her father’s struggle to reconcile his beliefs. It combines personal narrative with broader discussions on gender identity, science, and civil rights, including a landmark legal case for transgender rights. Praised for its journalistic rigor and readability, it offers an inspiring, educational perspective on trans issues and family resilience. Highly recommended.

Key topics covered in the book include:

• Family Dynamics and Growth: The narrative focuses not only on Nicole but also on her family’s emotional journey. Her parents, Kelly and Wayne, initially struggle with their child’s transition—Wayne in particular—but ultimately become staunch advocates for Nicole’s rights. Her twin brother Jonas also plays a significant role, balancing his support for Nicole with his own need for attention and individuality.
• Broader Social Context: Nutt delves into the societal systems that impact Nicole’s life, including legal battles and discrimination. Notably, the book highlights a landmark case where Maine’s highest court ruled in favor of Nicole’s right to use the restroom aligning with her gender identity, marking a significant moment in transgender rights.
• Scientific Insight: The author integrates accessible discussions on the science of gender identity, including brain development and fetal biology. These sections add depth to the narrative without overshadowing its emotional core.
• Journalistic Excellence: As a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, Nutt employs a meticulous and empathetic approach, weaving together personal anecdotes, medical records, legal documents, and interviews. Her writing strikes a balance between detachment and intimacy, making the story both informative and emotionally resonant.

Trans Britain by Christine Burns

“Trans Britain: Our Journey from the Shadows,” edited by Christine Burns, is a compelling anthology that chronicles the history of trans activism in the UK. The book is divided into three sections, exploring historical struggles, current challenges, and future possibilities. It features essays by trans individuals and allies, offering deeply personal and political insights. Readers highlight its emotional weight, particularly in recounting early hardships faced by trans people, alongside inspiring stories of activism and progress. While some found it repetitive, most agree it is an essential, educational, and hopeful account of trans rights and resilience in Britain.

Some of the most impactful stories in Trans Britain include:

• Adrienne Nash’s Early Struggles: Adrienne faced immense challenges in accessing medical support for her transition, highlighting the lack of resources and understanding in earlier decades.
• Stephanie Hirst’s Transition: Contrasting Adrienne’s story, Stephanie’s more recent transition reflects improved societal and medical support, showcasing progress over time.
• Mark Rees’ Legal Fight: Mark Rees took his case for gender recognition to the European Court of Human Rights, a pivotal moment in trans rights advocacy.
• The Founding of Mermaids: A parent’s journey in supporting their trans child led to the creation of this vital charity, emphasizing community-building efforts.

Pageboy by Elliot Page

Elliot Page’s memoir “Pageboy” is a groundbreaking, nonlinear exploration of his personal journey as a trans actor. The book offers an intimate look at Page’s experiences with gender identity, mental health, and Hollywood.

Key Highlights:

• Written in a series of non-linear vignettes that reflect the intrinsically nonlinear nature of queer experiences
• Candidly discusses challenging topics like gender dysphoria, eating disorder recovery, and self-harm
• Provides raw and powerful insights into Page’s life, from childhood to his career in acting

The Gender Games by Juno Dawson

“The Gender Games” by Juno Dawson is a compelling blend of memoir, gender theory, and cultural critique. It explores her journey from a non-conforming boy to a transgender woman, interwoven with reflections on feminism, toxic masculinity, and societal gender norms. The book is praised for its conversational tone, humour, and honesty, making complex topics accessible. It balances personal anecdotes with broader discussions on gender as a social construct and includes insights from prominent activists. Many reviewers found it thought-provoking and engaging, though some questioned if it would resonate beyond supportive audiences.

Key topics covered in the book include:

• Personal Journey: Juno Dawson shares her life story, transitioning from a non-conforming boy to a gay man, and finally to a trans woman. Her narrative is deeply personal, raw, and honest, offering insights into her struggles with gender identity and societal expectations.
• Gender as a Social Construct: A central thesis of the book is that gender is a malleable social construct that affects everyone, not just trans individuals. Dawson critiques societal norms that enforce rigid gender roles, illustrating their impact on diverse groups, from young girls to men constrained by toxic masculinity.
• Feminism and Intersectionality: The book delves into feminist issues such as rape culture, privilege, and the gender wage gap. Dawson acknowledges her own privileges while addressing the discrimination she faced as a trans woman. She also discusses divisions within feminist movements regarding trans inclusion.
• Accessible Tone: Despite tackling serious topics, Dawson employs humor and conversational language to make complex ideas approachable. The book is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging without feeling overly academic.

Conclusion

While I have only read one of Shon Faye’s books, “The Transgender Issue”, I believe it is an exceptional resource that should be considered before delving into other works on this list.

Juno Dawson, primarily an author of teenage drama novels, is widely regarded as one of the most influential and insightful writers on transgender issues. All her books here are well written and are well worth a read.

Although “Becoming Nicole” is based on a true story in the United States, it remains relevant to transgender individuals coming out and parents of transgender children. The book offers a candid portrayal of the challenges faced by both parents and children, providing valuable insights into the complexities of transitioning.

“Trans Britain” by Christine Burns is an essential read for transgender individuals residing in the United Kingdom.

I have included “Pageboy” in this list because I believe it is a well-written and compelling book. Elliot Page, known for his breakthrough role in “Juno,” his time in the drama “Umbrella Academy,” and his starring roles in the “X-Men” franchise, is a prominent figure in the transgender community.