Two Life Enriching Books By Transgender Authors

Transgender people are gradually gaining acceptance in society as the third gender. However, many of us are still battling with our impressions gathered during childhood.

Let us swap places

It may sound jarring, but try to swap places with them for one day. Put yourself in their shoes and think. Does the thought repulse you? Why should it? Would the feeling have been the same had this been any other individual amongst you? Think about it. Think about life from their perspective and the struggles they have to face each day of their life. This is exactly what many authors have brought out in their literary works.

I would strongly recommend these two books written by transgender authors.  These books will tug at your heartstrings and give you a new perspective on woman-to-man and man-to-woman transitions.

 

1. Just Add Hormones : An Insider’s Guide to the Transsexual Experience by Matt Kailey

Born in 1955, Matt Kailey was one of the early crusaders of the LGBT movement. Under societal constraints, he spent 42 years of his life trying to understand “what is wrong with me”. He started his female-to-male transition at the age of 42 and penned down this book, which was published in 2005.

This book takes you through the journey of becoming a man. He writes about the emotional aspect of the transition but what struck me most about the book was that he answered many questions that the mind seeks answers for; like “which restroom to use?”, “Is genital transition necessary?”, “When is it that you say the process is done?” etc. This book is an interesting read with humour built in and the world/society being depicted as ‘confused’ not ‘evil.'

2. Redefining Realness: My Path to Womanhood, Identity, Love & So Much More by Janet Mock

This book is a New York bestseller, winner of the 2015 Women’s Way Book Prize, Goodreads Best of 2014 semi-finalist and has won many more accolades. Janet Mock is a strong woman who has provided an inspirational voice to the entire community with this book.

The book narrates her journey of transformation from Charles to Janet. Being born in a family of five with modest roots, she describes the struggles of being a non-White, non-male transgender in American society. The book really makes you think and question your beliefs. A must read!

If you are an avid reader, you are sure to connect with these books. Every once in a while, you need to look at the world afresh and these can be excellent options.

Written by Ruchi Rajan