For many of our trans patients, the transition journey can be one of mixed emotions. One where optimism, excitement and release are often juxtaposed with moments of loneliness, confusion and overwhelm. For this reason, many people find real comfort and solace in learning about the lived experiences of other trans people – those who have already gone through the process, faced and overcome the same battles.
With that in mind, the gender specialists at Waterside Clinic have compiled a list of trans book recommendations to help you on your journey. Each one also serves as an eye-opening insight into the lives of trans people, which also makes them ideal for sharing with friends, family and allies. Because the more that people understand what it’s truly like to be trans, the better chance we have of breaking down stereotypes, fighting stigma, and improving life for trans people everywhere.
American Teenager: How Trans Kids Are Surviving Hate and Finding Joy in a Turbulent Era by Nico Lang
This bestselling book from the award-winning journalist paints a vivid and moving portrait of eight trans and nonbinary teenagers as they face triumphs, struggles and all that encompasses growing up trans in America today.
Available to purchase here.
Becoming a Visible Man by Jamison Green
Written by a leading activist in the transgender movement, this book provides a compelling insight into the politics of gender. Combining candid autobiography with informed analysis, the author offers a unique insight into the multiple challenges of the female-to-male transsexual experience – ranging from encounters with prejudice and strained relationships with family to the realities of surgical sex reassignment.
Available to purchase here.
And She Was: A Memoir of Transition by Rachel Dover
Rachel Dover takes readers on a profound and deeply personal journey of self-discovery and transformation. Through candid reflections and poignant anecdotes, Rachel shares her experiences of transitioning, capturing the emotional highs and lows of her journey with raw honesty and humour.
Available to purchase here.
Transgender History: The Roots of Today’s Revolution by Susan Stryker
Covering American transgender history from the mid-twentieth century to today, the book gives a great overview of major movements, writings and events. It includes quotes from important texts and speeches in transgender history and brief biographies of key players, plus excerpts from transgender memoirs and discussion of treatments of transgenderism in popular culture.
Available to purchase here.
Authentic Selves: Celebrating Trans People and Nonbinary People and Their Families by Peggy Gillespie
This groundbreaking book is a compilation of life stories and portraits of trans and nonbinary people, as well as their partners, parents, children, siblings, and chosen family members. The compelling stories provide a glimpse into the real lives of these remarkable people and their families, all of whom have shown dedication to creating a more just, diverse, and compassionate world.
Available to purchase here.
Transgender Warriors: Making History from Joan of Arc to Marsha P. Johnson and Beyond by Leslie Feinberg
Described as being ahead of its time when first published in 1996, this book interweaves history, memoir and gender studies to show that transgender people, far from being a modern phenomenon, have always existed and have exerted their influence throughout history.
Available to purchase here.
Page Boy: A Memoir by Elliot Page
This highly personal coming-of-age book from the Canadian actor, author and transgender advocate, Elliot Page, highlights his inner battle and his ‘liberating decision’ to come out as transgender in 2020.
Available to purchase here.
The Last Time I Wore a Dress by Dylan Scholinski
At fifteen years old, Daphne Scholinski was committed to a mental institution. Described as heartbreaking and hopeful, this book looks back at their unique experiences, chronicling the journey of coming into oneself and gaining a nuanced, freeing understanding of being born transgender.
Available to purchase here.