A lot of the public’s awareness of the transgender community comes from movies, television shows and books. But for decades, media did not accurately represent or characterize transgender people.
Transgender Awareness Week – November 13 to 19 – highlights transgender people and the issues faced by members of the community. It’s also a time for allies to take action by speaking up against prejudice, discrimination and violence.
This is just a small sample of books at Bucks County Free Library by and about transgender people. You can also browse our new Transgender Awareness Week shelf on cloudLibrary.
Books for Children and Teens
Born Ready: The True Story of a Boy Named Penelope by Jodie Patterson
Penelope knows he’s a boy (and a ninja). And he wants to help everyone understand him. In this enriching book, you’ll see Penelope’s frustrations and triumphs as he introduces himself to the world.
Recommended age: 4 to 7
It Feels Good to Be Yourself by Theresa Thorn
A sweet introduction to the concept of gender identity. Using child-friendly language and bright illustrations, this book child helps caregivers talk about this topic in a positive, inclusive way.
Recommended age: 4 to 7
Jack (Not Jackie) by Erica Silverman
Susan can’t wait for her little sister, Jackie, to get old enough to play all the games she likes. But as Jackie grows, Susan is upset when she learns that her sister would rather be called Jack and doesn’t want to dress like her. Susan’s mom helps her understand and appreciate who Jack is.
Recommended age: 4 to 7
Jacob’s New Dress by Sarah Hoffman
Jacob adores playing dress-up and wants to wear a dress to school. When he creates a dress made from a towel and wears it to school over his shorts and shirt, he is teased by a classmate. His parents support him as he makes another homemade dress to wear to school the next day.
Recommended age: 4 to 7
When Aidan Became a Brother by Kyle Lukoff
When he came out as transgender, Aidan and his parents adjusted his clothing, name and other parts of his life. So when his parents tell him another baby is on the way, Aidan wants everything to be perfect for his new sibling. With help from his parents, Aidan learns that communication, honesty and love will help him be a good big brother.
Recommended age: 4 to 7
Both Sides Now by Peyton Thomas
High school senior Finch Kelly wants to be the first transgender congressman. But before he can start college in Washington, DC, he has one obstacle left: the National Speech and Debate Tournament. This year’s topic is transgender rights, and Finch realizes he may have to argue against his own humanity in order to win.
Recommended age: Teens
The Brilliant Death by A. R. Capetta
A romantic fantasy by a non-binary author! Teodora hides her magical ability to turn people into objects. Until she meets another person with similar powers, that is. If Teodora wants to save her family from the ruler of the land, she’ll need to use her powers to transform herself into a boy.
Recommended age: Teens
Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender
Felix wants revenge. After his deadname and pre-transition photos are released, he cooks up a scheme to get justice. But soon he finds himself grappling with his identity and falling in love at the same time.
Reading age: Teens
Trans Teen Survival Guide by Owl and Fox Fisher
In frank and friendly terms, transgender youth activists Fox and Owl offer information for transgender and non-binary teens. The book is full of practical advice on self-care, expression and taking pride in your identity.
Reading age: Preteens and teens
Books for Adults
Bright Lines by Tanwi Nandini Islam
Set in Brooklyn and Bangladesh, this queer coming-of-age novel weaves together the stories of three young women. It also explores the themes of immigration, heritage, love and loss.
Light From Uncommon Stars by Ryka Aoki
Shizuka must escape her deal with the devil. To do that, she has to entice seven other violin prodigies to trade their souls for success. And she’s only got one more soul to find! But before she can break the curse, Shizuka meets a retired starship captain who helps her reconsider a soul’s value.
Dear Senthuran: A Black Spirit Memoir by Akwaeke Emezi
From the bestselling author of The Death of Vivek Oji. This tender memoir uses correspondence with friends, family and lovers to explore the writer’s decisions about their body, relationships and success.
Handsome: Stories of an Awkward Girl Boy Human by Holly Lorka
A hilarious and poignant memoir. Holly Lorka takes you on a journey through the first five decades of her life as she searches for acceptance and answers.
The Natural Mother of the Child by Krys Malcolm Belc
This collection of essays by Philadelphia writer Krys Malcolm Belc explores identity and parenthood. Krys’s transmasculine identity became clear after he gave birth to his son, Samson. But when his partner legally adopted Samson, the documents listed Krys as “the natural mother of the child.” This book explores how the concept of motherhood doesn’t align with every parent’s experience.
