Real stories about growing up trans

BECOMING WHO WE ARE

Real Stories About Growing Up Trans

Edited by Sammy Lisel and Hazel Newlefant

The LGBT community is not only culturally diverse, but it has a gender/sexuality diverse spectrum. One facet of this spectrum is the T in LGBT—transgender. Living as one’s authentic self has varying degrees of challenges, especially when growing up. There is still transphobia and discrimination today, and at the same time we must acknowledge the strides, successes and progress, which starts with sharing our stories. That being said, I bring to you the anthology Becoming Who We Are: Real Stories About Growing Up Trans.

This children’s anthology is designed in a comic format, and each story is illustrated by a cartoonist who is LGBT. We are taken on a journey into the lives and childhoods of the following Transgender individuals:

               Sam Long

               Robbi Mecus

               Brooke Guinan

               Kate Stone

               Robbie Ahmed

               Diamond Stylz

               Marli Washington

               Robin Aguilar

               Rebekah Bruesehoff

In sharing their stories about growing up, their road to identity as a transman/transwoman/non-binary had, despite their diverse backgrounds, a commonality when it comes to their gender identity, a sense that something about them didn’t fit with the gender norms or heteronormativity. For several, there was a feeling that “I’m the only one.” There were those who, as children, were bullied or otherwise didn’t feel safe. Some were kicked out of their homes. However, at the end of the day, those challenges were overcome, with the contributors sharing the successes they are today and paying it forward.

Among our illustrious contributors are teachers, actors, musicians, scientists, forest rangers, and activists, sending a powerful message to trans kids who are struggling: you are not alone. When transitioning is shared, it is done so in a sensitive and affirming way.

As I mentioned in an earlier review this month, children need to see stories featuring persons who look like them and families who look like theirs. Hence, there is still a great need for stories about transgendered individuals and families, and this anthology is a part of meeting that need.

Becoming Who We Are is available through Strive Bookstore, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble.

A deep thanks to the contributors of this anthology who have shared their experiences, strength, and hope. Happy Pride Month!