Trans & Non Binary Books

This children's picture book helps adults to explain gender identity and expression to 4 to 8 year olds using simple language and engaging, diverse characters, covering the entire spectrum of gender. Includes a guide for parents and professionals and a lesson plan at the end of the book.

At lunchtime, all of Tom's friends gather at school to work together building their house. Each one of them has a special job to do, and each one of them has a different way of expressing their gender identity.

Jackson is a boy who likes to wear dresses. Ivy is a girl who likes her hair cut really short. Alex doesn't feel like 'just' a boy, or 'just' a girl. They are all the same, they are all different - but they are all friends.

A very simple story that challenges gender stereotypes and shows 4 to 8 year olds that it is OK to be yourself. An engaging story that is more than just an educational tool; this book will assist parents and teachers in giving children the space to explore the full spectrum of gender diversity and will show children the many ways they can express their gender in a truly positive light.

'In this era of gender revolution, A House for Everyone reminds us that gender isn't two boxes but a rainbow with room for children of every gender. Jo Hirst's brilliant book teaches all our children about gender identity and gender expressions while celebrating gender acceptance--let's bring it to every classroom and household.'
- Diane Ehrensaft, Ph.D. Author of The Gender Creative Child and Gender Born, Gender Made, Director of Mental Health of the Child and Adolescent Gender Center

'A vibrant, up-beat story about inclusion and acceptance, looking past stereotypes and embracing human differences. It's a much-needed resource in the Gender Identity category.'
- Rebecca Seymour, Little Parachutes

Author: Jo Hirst, illustrated by Naomi Bardoff
Format: Hardback
Pages: 32
ISBN: 9781785924484

Reading level - 8 to 12 years.

When twelve-year-old Ana-Marie Jin, the reigning the U.S. Juvenile Champion in figure skating, learns that they'll be portraying a princess in their new skating program, they're less than thrilled, to say the least. Ana's just not a frilly -- dress kind of girl, after all! Nevertheless, Ana's determined not to let anything derail the dream of achieving another national title-not after all these years of hard work and Mom's many sacrifices.

But when Ana meets Hayden, a transgender boy new to the rink, Ana's thoughts about gender identity throw her for a loop she wasn't expecting. And when Hayden mistakes Ana for a boy, Ana decides not to correct him, and soon settles into a comfortable, boyish identity whenever he's around. But as their friendship develops, Ana soon realises that it's not easy to juggle two different identities on one slippery sheet of ice. And with a major competition approaching, Ana must decide whether the truth is worth risking everything they've trained for.

Ana on the Edge is a contemporary #ownvoices novel that offers a behind-the-scenes look into the world of competitive figure skating, while also giving readers a nonbinary protagonist to root and cheer for along the way.

Reading age 3 - 7 years.

Tiny prefers not to tell other children whether they are a boy or girl. Tiny also loves to play fancy dress, sometimes as a fairy and sometimes as a knight in shining armour. Tiny's family don't seem to mind but when they start a new school some of their new classmates struggle to understand.

'A lovely, sensitive, much-needed book that helps all children ask the big questions about identity and gender.' - Juno Dawson, author of This Book is Gay

Tiny loves costumes! Tiny likes to dress up as an animal, or a doctor, or a butterfly. Tiny also prefers not to tell other children whether they are a boy or a girl. Tiny's friends don't mind, but when Tiny starts a new school their new friends can't help asking one question:

"Tiny, are you a boy or are you a girl?"

This brightly illustrated book will open a dialogue with children aged 3+ about gender diversity in a fun and creative way. Featuring a gender neutral protagonist, the book imparts an important message about identity and being who you want to be. Tiny's story will assist parents, family and teachers in giving children the space to express themselves fully, explore different identities and have fun at the same time.

'Books on gender identity for young children are still very few and far between. Children who do not identify as boys or girls will find Are You a Boy or Are You a Girl? immensely reassuring. It will be extremely valuable too in schools, in families, and in other settings - for helping young children understand gender diversity and question gender stereotypes. At the end there are a number of useful discussion starters, for example 'Does it matter if Tiny is a boy or a girl?' and 'What would you ask Tiny if you met them?', followed by information about organisations that provide support on gender identity issues. A sensitive and important book, written by campaigners for transgender rights.'
- Anne Harding

'The real value for children and parents in this book stems from its simplicity, it puts the story across in a grounded manner and invites open discussion. The authors, Fox Fisher and Sarah Savage have collaborated to produce what I feel is an amazing book.'
- Sophie Smallman

Author: Sarah Savage and Fox Fisher, illustrated by Fox Fisher
Format: Hardback
Pages: 32
ISBN: 9781785922671

Abby Chava Stein was raised in a Hasidic Jewish community in Brooklyn, profoundly isolated in a culture that lives according to the laws and practices of an eighteenth-century Eastern European enclave, speaking only Yiddish and Hebrew and shunning modern life.

Stein was born as the first son in a rabbinical dynastic family, poised to become a leader of the next generation of Hasidic Jews. But Stein felt certain at a young age that she was a girl. Without access to TV or the internet and never taught English, she suppressed her desire for a new body while looking for answers wherever she could find them, from forbidden religious texts to smuggled secular examinations of faith.

Finally, she orchestrated a personal exodus from ultra-Orthodox manhood into mainstream femininity-a radical choice that forced her to leave her home, her family and her way of life.

'Becoming Nicole is a powerful and illuminating book about one couple's journey in coming to accept and nurture their transgender daughter. It's a page turner and a heart opener. I couldn't recommend it more highly.' Cheryl Strayed, author of Wild

When Wayne and Kelly Maines adopted identical twin boys, they thought their lives were complete. But it wasn't long before they noticed a marked difference between Jonas and his brother, Wyatt. Jonas preferred sports and trucks and many of the things little boys were 'supposed' to like; but Wyatt liked princess dolls and dressing up and playing Little Mermaid. By the time the twins were toddlers, confusion over Wyatt's insistence that he was female began to tear the family apart.

Becoming Nicole is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose instincts told her that her child needed love and not disapproval; of a conservative, army-veteran father who overcame his deepest fears to embrace his new daughter; of a loving brother who never gave up supporting his twin sister; and of a town forced to confront its own prejudices. More than that, however, Becoming Nicole is the story of an extraordinary girl who fought for the right to be herself.

Author: Phoenix Schneider & Sherry Paris
Format: Paperback
Pages: 224
ISBN: 9781787751996

Hurled words. Thrown objects. Dodged burgers. A burger was thrown at Travis Alabanza on Waterloo Bridge in 2016.

From this experience they have created a poetic, passionate performance piece based around the 'burger': the texture, and taste of being trans.

Their experiences include verbal abuse, ostracisation and being thrown out of a Top Shop changing room. The piece also explores the black trans experience.

Author: Travis Alabanza
Format: Paperback
Pages: 80
ISBN: 9781786826473

THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER

In this remarkable memoir - written with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Buzz Bissinger during her pivotal first years of rebirth - Caitlyn Jenner reflects on her past as she looks to her future.

With poignancy and humour, Caitlyn writes about her confusion growing up, the temporary triumph of the Olympics as Bruce Jenner, and the noose of being endlessly described as the ultimate in manhood. She reveals her sense of shame and deceit she felt as she got older, as she went to great lengths to tell lies to conceal her true self.

She also delves into her life in the public eye; her marriages and her troubled relationships with her children; what lead to her decision to becoming Caitlyn, and how the transgender community and the world has embraced her new life. Written with a searing honesty, this books shows you the real and true Caitlyn.

For age 7 years and up.

Kit, a 12 year old who identifies as a boy, explains all about gender variance, the experience of medical transition and how his family, friends and school can support him. This illustrated introduction to gender diversity will be a helpful guide and discussion starter for children 11+, as well as for older readers.

Meet Kit - a 12 year old undergoing medical transition - as he talks about gender and the different ways it can be explored. He explains what it is like to transition and how his friends, family and teachers can help through talking, listening and being proactive.

With illustrations throughout, this is an ideal way to start conversations about gender diversity in the classroom or at home and suitable for those working in professional services and settings. The book also includes a useful list of recommended reading, organisations and websites for further information and support.

'A much needed piece of work! The pedagogies outlined in this book have made a positive, significant difference to the lives of young trans people in our schools. By following the practical strategies we can together begin the journey to inclusion. This guide will help you take the first steps to educate and then support you to create an environment that actively celebrates gender diversity! A definite go-to-guide for all schools.'
- Dr Elly Barnes MBE, CEO of Educate & Celebrate

Author: Sarah Savage and Fox Fisher, illustrated by Fox Fisher
Format: Paperback
Pages: 64
ISBN: 9781785921056

'Uplifting and triumphant, each story is a feat of bravery and courage.' - Juno
Dawson
'A must-read for anyone grappling with coming out.' - Riyadh Khalaf

"He told me being gay was nothing to be ashamed of." - Bill

"I put my hands over my eyes as I told her, as I couldn't bear to see her reaction." - Olivia

Based on the hugely popular Coming Out Stories podcast, this empowering, humorous and deeply honest book invites you to share one of the most important moments in many LGBTQ+ people's lives.

From JP coming out to his reflection in the mirror, to Jacob coming out to their Mum over email, from Christine knowing she was trans as a young child, to Kerry coming out as a lesbian in her late thirties, all of the real life stories in this book show you there is no right or wrong way to come out, whatever your age and whatever your background.

Whether you're gay, pan, queer, bi, trans, non-binary, or an ally, this uplifting go-to resource is filled with helpful advice and tips on what to expect, and inspirational quotes from leading LGBTQ+ figures, to help you live your very best self. Welcome to the family!

'These 27 inspirational personal stories reveal the breadth and diversity of coming out experiences from people of different ages, eras and cultural backgrounds, including both their triumphs and the tribulations. But the common thread is courage, honesty, self-acceptance and dignity. This book is a must read for LGBT+ teens and their families and teachers.' - Peter Tatchell, human rights campaigner

'None of us are born with prejudice, sadly it's something that is learned - with more books like this usualising queer people there is hope for a future of inclusion and social justice where we simply become part of the fabric of our communities and coming out becomes a thing of the past.' - Dr Elly Barnes MBE, CEO & Founder of Educate & Celebrate

Author: Emma Goswell & Sam Walker
Format: Paperbook
Pages: 240
ISBN: 9781787754959

Finalist for the Lambda Literary Award, 2019
Finalist for the Publishing Triangle Award, 2019

A New Yorker Book of the Year, 2018
A Huffington Post Book of the Year, 2018
A Buzzfeed Book of the Year, 2018

'Quite simply extraordinary... Imagine if Maggie Nelson, Daphne du Maurier and Daniel Defoe collaborated.' Sarah Perry, author of The Essex Serpent

Jack Sheppard - a transgender carpenter's apprentice - has fled his master's house to become a notorious prison break artist, and Bess Khan has escaped the draining of the fenlands to become a revolutionary mastermind. Together, they find themselves at the centre of a web of corruption leading back to the dreaded Thief-Catcher General ...

...Or so we are told in a mysterious manuscript unearthed by one Professor R. Voth. Voth traces the origins and authenticity of the manuscript as Jack and Bess trace the connections between the bowels of Newgate Prison and the dissection chambers of the Royal College, in a bawdy collision of a novel about gender, love, and liberation.

Leading activist and essayist Brynn Tannehill tells you everything you ever wanted to know about transgender issues but were afraid to ask. The book aims to break down deeply held misconceptions about trans people across all aspects of life, from politics, law and culture, through to science, religion and mental health, to provide readers with a deeper understanding of what it means to be trans.

The book walks the reader through transgender issues, starting with "What does transgender mean?" before moving on to more complex topics including growing up trans, dating and sex, medical and mental health, and debates around gender and feminism.

Brynn also challenges deliberately deceptive information about transgender people being put out into the public sphere. Transphobic myths are debunked and biased research, bad statistics and bad science are carefully and clearly refuted. This important and engaging book enables any reader to become informed the most critical public conversations around transgender people, and become a better ally as a result.

Author: Brynn Tannehill
Format: Paperback
Pages: 432
ISBN: 9781785928260

While many feminist and queer movements are designed to challenge sexism, they often simultaneously police gender and sexuality, sometimes just as fiercely as the straight, male-centric mainstream does.

Among LGBTQ activists, there is a long history of lesbians and gay men dismissing bisexuals, transgender people, and other gender and sexual minorities. In each case, exclusion is based on the premise that certain ways of being gendered or sexual are more legitimate, natural, or righteous than others. As a trans woman, bisexual, and femme activist, Julia Serano has spent much of the last ten years challenging various forms of exclusion within feminist and queer/LGBTQ movements.

In Excluded, she chronicles many of these instances of exclusion and argues that marginalising others often stems from a handful of assumptions that are routinely made about gender and sexuality. These false assumptions infect theories, activism, organisations, and communities and worse, they enable people to vigorously protest certain forms of sexism while simultaneously ignoring and even perpetuating others.

Serano advocates for a new approach to fighting sexism that avoids these pitfalls and offers new ways of thinking about gender, sexuality, and sexism that foster inclusivity rather than exclusivity.

Fiction. LGBTQIA Studies. Asian and Asian American Studies. Young Adult.

FIERCE FEMMES AND NOTORIOUS LIARS: A DANGEROUS TRANS GIRL'S CONFABULOUS MEMOIR is the highly sensational, ultra-exciting, sort-of true coming-of-age story of a young Asian trans girl, pathological liar, and kung-fu expert who runs away from her parents' abusive home in a rainy city called Gloom. Striking off on her own, she finds her true family in a group of larger-than-life trans femmes who live in a mysterious pleasure district known only as the Street of Miracles.

Under the wings of this fierce and fabulous flock, the protagonist blossoms into the woman she has always dreamed of being, with a little help from the unscrupulous Doctor Crocodile. When one of their number is brutally murdered, she joins her sisters in forming a vigilante gang to fight back against the transphobes, violent johns, and cops that stalk the Street of Miracles. But when things go terribly wrong, she must find the truth within herself in order to stop the violence and discover what it really means to grow up and find your family.

Format: Paperback
Pages: 192
ISBN: 9781787752597

Suitable for 11 - 13 years.

“Allow me to introduce you to a remarkable book, full of love, wonder, hope, and the importance of getting to be who you were meant to be. You must read this.” – David Levithan, author of Every Day and editor of George.

When people look at George, they think they see a boy. But she knows she’s not a boy. She knows she’s a girl.

George thinks she’ll have to keep this a secret forever. Then her teacher announces that their class play is going to be Charlotte’s Web. George really, really, REALLY wants to play Charlotte.

But the teacher says she can’t even try out for the part . . . because she’s a boy.

Author: Alex Gino
Format: Paperback
Pages: 224
ISBN: 9781407170978

As a horny little kid, Holly Lorka had no idea why God had put her in the wrong body and made her want to kiss girls. She had questions: Was she a monster? Would she ever be able to grow sideburns? And most importantly, where was her penis?

The problem was, it was the 1970s, so there were no answers yet. Here, Lorka tells the story, by turns hilarious and poignant, of her romp through the first fifty years of her life searching for sex, love, acceptance, and answers to her questions.

With a sharp wit, endearing innocence, and indelible sense of optimism, she struggles through the awkward years (spoiler: that's all of them) and discovers that what she thought were mistakes are actually powerful tools to launch her into a magical, and ridiculous life.

Oh, and she discovers that she can buy a penis at the store, too.

Martina Ramirez first started wearing her mother's shoes in secret in primary school, when everyone still knew her as Martin. Growing up in a conservative household as an adopted Mexican-American in a racially segregated city, she swore she would not be just another crime or teen pregnancy statistic.

Martina lived up to that promise when she was named student chosen to make the speech at the farewell ceremony at her secondary school, became a lecturer at a prestigious university and had a family. It was only then, after she had become established in her life and career, that she was able to finally be her true self.

HAPPIER AS A WOMAN is not just a story of one woman's transition. It is a story about relationships - those she fostered with herself, those that were hurt, those that were saved and those that would not have existed if not for Martina's desire to be a mentor, to be the change. Martina made it her mission to pave the way for all of those that would come after her - from women seeking to break through the glass ceiling to fellow victims of emotional abuse - regardless of who they appeared to be on the outside.

It's as though all the emotions she had to bottle up in her youth became stronger with age and they now tell of a compelling journey of acceptance, self-discovery and self-love. Martina's story is skilfully expressed through letters, anecdotes and powerful interviews conducted by and written alongside her renowned co-author, human rights advocate and biographer, Alicia Partnoy.

Author: Martina Giselle Ramirez & Alicia Partnoy
Format: Paperback
Pages: 240
ISBN: 9781627782388

This true story by a family about raising their transgender son is both a captivating read and an invaluable support source for parents facing similar issues. A warm, insightful portrait of a family that includes tips on helping young transgender people navigate their transition, it will support, educate and inspire.

This inspiring and moving story, told from the heart of an extraordinary family, recounts the emotional and uplifting journey of raising a transgender son.

Janna Barkin's family has come a long way since their child, Amaya, first told them he was a boy and not a girl and this captivating memoir charts the family's experiences of raising Amaya, from birth through to adulthood. With powerful chapters written by Amaya's family and friends, Janna shares personal stories of the support and discoveries her family has encountered and provides a 'care package' of advice for families facing similar issues, including a glossary of terms and a list of hand-picked support sources.

Written with warmth and humour, He's Always Been My Son reminds us to accept others for who they are and will support, educate and inspire anyone who reads it.

'What I love about this book is that it is a wonderful balance between a mother's love for her son and resources available to families who are navigating a similar journey. With different family members contributing to the story, the reader can see what this transition looks like from varying viewpoints.'
- Roz Gould Keith, President/Founder of Stand with Trans, parent of a transgender teen, and Creator of Ally Moms

'He's Always Been My Son does what no other book has, weaving together a mother's own reflections with inspiring words from the other key players ... capturing the essential truth that it takes a village to grow a thriving gender creative child.'
- Diane Ehrensaft, Ph.D., Director of Mental Health, Child and Adolescent Gender Center, UCSF, and author of Gender Born, Gender Made and The Gender Creative Child

Author: Janna Barkin
Format: Paperback
Pages: 320
ISBN: 9781785927478

This book offers essential guidance to parents of transgender and non-binary teens to help them support and understand their children. It alleviates common concerns parents have and gives advice on hormones and surgery, use of pronouns and how to transition socially. It also includes sample family letters, case studies and further reading.

Going through puberty and adolescence presents unwelcome changes for many transgender youth, and this book provides advice to parents of transgender teens to help them understand what their child is experiencing and feeling during this challenging time.

Addressing common fears and concerns that parents of transgender teens share, the book guides them through steps they can take with their child, including advice on hormones and surgery and how to transition socially. It addresses the recent increase in teens presenting with non-binary identities, and reflects major legal, social and medical developments regarding transgender issues. The author's insights are gained from his professional experience of providing psychotherapy regarding gender identity. He provides resources and further reading to help parents expand their knowledge.

Although aimed predominantly at parents, this book is useful for anyone working with teenagers and young adults as it provides many answers to common questions about adolescent gender identity.

'Irwin Krieger has given parents the gift of a brilliant, empathic roadmap in their journey with their transgender teen. He stretches our horizons to bring into focus not just youth who tell us "I'm the opposite gender" but non-binary youth who identify as neither male nor female, but both or all. Elegant, streamlined and robust, a must read for anyone raising or promoting the gender health of a transgender teen.'
- Diane Ehrensaft, PH.D., Author of The Gender Creative Child and Director of Child and Adolescent Gender Center, University of California San Francisco

'An excellent and much needed resource for parents of transgender, non-binary, or gender questioning teens. With compassion and encouragement, Krieger provides a pathway for parents who are navigating this journey.'
- Janna Barkin, Author of He’s Always Been My Son

Author: Irwin Krieger
Format: Paperback
Pages: 112
ISBN: 9781785928017

Trailblazing transgender actress, activist, and style icon Candis Cayne has spent a lifetime learning how to see herself for who she really is, and along the way has taught herself and others how to celebrate inner beauty as the perfect starting point for outer radiance. Drawing from her personal journey to self-acceptance and comprised of a unique combination of cross-barrier, body-positive wellness and style advice, Hi Gorgeous is a one-of-a-kind beauty guide that will speak to all women.

Engagingly written, highly visual, and filled with "Glam on the Go" tips and exclusive interviews with Candis's team of "radiance experts," the book will cover everything from new definitions of womanhood and beauty (with elements of Candis's own journey artfully woven in) to hands-on makeup and style tips aimed at enhancing every woman's natural beauty.

Hi Gorgeous! opens with a foreword by Candis's best friend, former Olympian and transgender star Caitlyn Jenner. Part I focuses on "Finding Your Natural Radiance," Part II on "Giving Them the Highlights" (makeup tips), and Part III on "Accentuating Your True Self" (fashion, accessories, putting forward your best).

As Candis says, "Inner empowerment leads to owning who you really are, which creates true, radiant beauty. The rest is just the icing on the cake." This beautiful, inspiring, and informative book will empower women on their own path and help them convey their radiance to the world.

This helpful guide presents ways we can all better understand gender, and how people can change and express their gender identity. Considering biological and cultural understandings of gender, gender expression, and relationships and sexuality, this is an excellent starting point for anybody thinking about what gender means to them.

'For anyone who's ever wished they had a smart, kind, friend with whom they could calmly and safely discuss gender issues: this most excellent book is that kind of friend'. - Kate Bornstein, author of Gender Outlaw

Have you ever questioned your own gender identity? Do you know somebody who is transgender or who identifies as non-binary? Do you ever feel confused when people talk about gender diversity?

This down-to-earth guide is for anybody who wants to know more about gender, from its biology, history and sociology, to how it plays a role in our relationships and interactions with family, friends, partners and strangers. It looks at practical ways people can express their own gender, and will help you to understand people whose gender might be different from your own. With activities and points for reflection throughout, this book will help people of all genders engage with gender diversity and explore the ideas in the book in relation to their own lived experiences.

'Wherever you are on your gender adventure, this book will be helpful to you. Beyond the headlines, gender is a personal journey - and for anyone struggling to find their way, this is the compassionate, accessible manual the world has been waiting for.'
- Laurie Penny, journalist, activist and author of Unspeakable Things

Author: Alex Iantaffi and Meg-John Barker. Foreword by S. Bear Bergman.
Format: Paperback
Pages: 288
ISBN: 9781785927461

Reading level - 13 to 18 years.

J spun. His stomach clenched hard, as though he'd been hit. It was just the neighbour lady, Mercedes. J couldn't muster a hello back, not now; he didn't care that she'd tell his mother he'd been rude. She should know better. Nobody calls me Jeni anymore.

J always felt different. He was certain that eventually everyone would understand who he really was: a boy mistakenly born as a girl. Yet as he grew up, his body began to betray him; eventually J stopped praying to wake up a 'real boy' and started covering up his body, keeping himself invisible - from his family, from his friends...from the world.

But after being deserted by the best friend he thought would always be by his side, J decides that he's done hiding - it's time to be who he really is. And this time he is determined not to give up, no matter the cost.

Reading level - 5 to 8 years.

From the time she was two years old, Jazz knew that she had a girl's brain in a boy's body.

She loved pink and dressing up as a mermaid and didn't feel like herself in boy's clothing. This confused her family, until they took her to a doctor who said that Jazz was transgender and that she was born that way.

Jazz's story is based on her real-life experience and she tells it in a simple, clear way that will be appreciated by picture book readers, their parents, and teachers.

Reading level - ages 3 to 6 years.

Based on a true transgender identity journey, the picture book I'm Not a Girl is an empowering story from writers Maddox Lyons and Jessica Verdi about a boy who is determined to be himself, illustrated by Dana Simpson.

Nobody seems to understand that Hannah is not a girl.

His parents ask why he won't wear the cute outfits they pick out. His friend thinks he must be a tomboy. His teacher insists he should be proud to be a girl.

But a birthday wish, a new word, and a stroke of courage might be just what Hannah needs to finally show the world who he really is.