International Transgender Day of Visibility is celebrated every March 31 to raise awareness of transgender people’s stories and experiences. A great way to celebrate or raise your own awareness is to pick up one of these books featuring trans characters and written by trans authors.
Always the Almost by Edward Underhill
Miles has two goals for the year: win back his ex-boyfriend, who broke up with him after he came out as trans, and beat his rival at the Tri-State Piano Competition where he has placed second for the past three years. But his plans are derailed after he meets new boy Eric. This is a heartwarming romance about a character who struggles to feel like he’s enough, both in his relationships and in the piano world.
Transmogrify! edited by g. haron davis
This anthology of short stories features trans characters with a wide array of magical gifts. From a story narrated by a sentient magic school, to scaly monsters that reflect your secrets, to a broomstick derby league, there’s something for everyone in this book. Great for readers looking for stories with nonbinary characters.
Girl Haven by Lilah Sturges, illustrated by Meaghan Carter
Ash’s mother disappeared years ago, but left behind stories and drawings about Koretris, an all-girl fantastical world she invented. When Ash’s friends find a spellbook and decide to try out one of the spells, they are unexpectedly transported to Koretris. But if Koretris is just for girls, how did Ash—who has always been called a boy—end up there? This fantasy quest graphic novel about what it feels like to question your gender is great for younger teens.
Boys Run the Riot by Keito Gaku
Ryo is a transgender boy but has no one that he can tell. He hates his school’s gendered uniforms and has an interest in fashion—especially in finding clothes that will help him feel like himself. After he runs into a classmate, Jin, at a favourite store, Jin askes Ryo to join him in starting a fashion brand. This four-volume manga series follows Ryo as he starts opening up to people about his gender and building his confidence.
What's the T? by Juno Dawson
This is a conversational introduction to what it means to be trans that covers a wide range of topics: the history of the trans community, coming out, medical and legal considerations, information for parents, and more. The author includes sections by other trans people throughout the book to show a variety of experiences. Looking for more nonfiction? Check out our Queer Resources booklist.
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