This is the story of one trans man’s exploration of gender identity, set against changing cultural attitudes from the 90s to the present day.
Caspar Baldwin grew up in a time when being trans was not widely accepted by society, and though progress has been made since then, trans men are still underrepresented and misunderstood. Grappling with the messy realities of gender expectations while giving a stark and moving account of his own experiences, Baldwin grants a nuanced understanding of what it’s like to be a trans boy or man. With its unflinching portrayal of the vulnerability, confusion, dysphoria, empowerment, peace and joy that are all part of the transition process, this provides an invaluable support for trans men and is a memoir that breaks the mould.
One of the only memoirs about growing up and living as a transgender man.
MY REVIEW:
This is a really honest memoir, so well written, and so interesting to read.
I know someone who is going through a similar journey, and thought this book would give me really good insight into what it’s like for trans men.
This is a book that so many people should read, as there’s a lot of ignorance when it comes to transgender people. It would really give people a better understanding of gender issues, and even how we as a society view gender.
I found it facinating to read about his childhood, and it really highlights the gender stereotypes attached to things like the toys we assign to children, the clothes they wear etc. Hopefully as society becomes more aware of these issues, we will become more conscious of not putting boys and girls into categories purely based on gender.
His experiences as he goes through puberty really highlights the issue of puberty blockers, something that many people are uncomfortable about the use of.
It’s a thought provoking book, and I have no doubt that it would be an invaluable source of information for anyone who wants to know more about what it is to be trans, but also in terms of raising awareness of the issues faced by trans people, it would be great to see it more widely read.
In addition, it’s a very readable and facinating story of someone’s life. Highly recommended to anyone who would like to understand the trans journey better, or anyone who enjoys a good autobiography. A must-read.
MY RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PRE-ORDER:
This book will be released on November 21st, 2018.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the advance copy.
Not Just a Tomboy: A Trans Masculine Memoir https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/178592463X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_PtevBb0TABPJW
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