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megkoz's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
4.5
One of the more entertaining and down to earth trans memoirs I’ve read, and one of the best audiobooks I’ve listened to.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Transphobia
Moderate: Misogyny, Medical trauma, Homophobia, Dysphoria, Death of parent, Mental illness, Sexual content, Injury/Injury detail, Sexism, Abortion, Religious bigotry, Grief, Colonisation, Bullying, Racism, and Panic attacks/disorders
Minor: Chronic illness and Suicidal thoughts
bisexualbookshelf's review
emotional
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
5.0
"Horse Barbie" is a profoundly impactful memoir by Geena Rocero, a trans Filipina pageant star, offering a poignant exploration of femininity, identity, and resilience in the face of oppression. Rocero's narrative is a powerful testament to the challenges and triumphs of navigating the intersections of gender, race, and colonial history.
Throughout the memoir, Rocero fearlessly delves into the complexities of feminization, shedding light on the relentless pressure to conform to narrow standards of beauty and gender expression. Her candid reflections on the fear of being "clocked" are extremely poignant, offering insight into the lived experiences of trans individuals, particularly transfemmes, in society.
Against the backdrop of the American modeling industry, Rocero unveils the insidious forces of white supremacy, beauty standards, colorism, and transphobia, illuminating the systemic barriers faced by marginalized communities. Her unwavering commitment to anticolonial and decolonial themes underscores the importance of reclaiming and celebrating trans Filipina heritage.
Central to Rocero's narrative is the theme of chosen family and solidarity within the trans community, highlighting the transformative power of support and collective action. Her portrayal of trans joy and resilience amidst adversity serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for readers grappling with their own identities and struggles.
Rocero's voice is both intimate and inviting, infused with moments of humor and levity that balance the weight of the narrative. Her journey as an immigrant navigating the complexities of identity and assimilation in America offers a nuanced perspective on the intersectionality of gender and migration.
"Horse Barbie" is not merely a memoir; it is a manifesto of trans empowerment and liberation, challenging societal norms and reclaiming agency over one's identity. Rocero's unwavering commitment to self-love and acceptance serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and beauty inherent in trans existence.
As Rocero eloquently states, "trans joy can never be fully extinguished," and "Horse Barbie" is a testament to the enduring spirit of resilience and determination within the trans community. Through her courageous storytelling, Rocero invites readers to reimagine their own histories and embrace their authentic selves with pride and confidence. "Horse Barbie" is a transformative and essential read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of gender, identity, and the power of self-affirmation. Geena Rocero's memoir is a triumph of trans resilience and joy, and I hope you’ll pick up a copy today.
📖 Recommended For: Advocates of Trans Liberation, Critics of Gender Norms & Roles, Supporters of Intersectional Feminism, Advocates of Decolonialism.
🔑 Key Themes: Trans Empowerment, Decolonization of Beauty Standards, Chosen Family and Community Support, Immigrant Experience and Identity, Resilience and Self-Love, Intersectionality and Solidarity, Reclaiming Trans Joy and Agency.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Death of parent, Transphobia, and Bullying
Minor: Domestic abuse, Alcohol, Drug use, Alcoholism, Sexual content, and Mental illness
historicalmaterialgirl's review
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
4.0
I flew through Horse Barbie. I really truly loved this; yet again proved to me trans women are always gonna be my fav writers. It's so funny and so full of heart. She gut punched me and then made me laugh and then made me tear up, usually within the same chapters. She also had stellar attention to detail - when the setting was important, you knew the background down to the color scheme and texture.
Yes some of this was giving liberal girlboss but I forgive it because she goes in about colonialism and religion too lmao and that comes with the territory like not every trans auntie can be a revolutionary communist.
Overall I found this book so inspiring and badass yet warm and comforting. I cherished reading every word. Highly recommend no matter what you're in the mood for or your typical reading preferences.
Yes some of this was giving liberal girlboss but I forgive it because she goes in about colonialism and religion too lmao and that comes with the territory like not every trans auntie can be a revolutionary communist.
Overall I found this book so inspiring and badass yet warm and comforting. I cherished reading every word. Highly recommend no matter what you're in the mood for or your typical reading preferences.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Transphobia
Moderate: Colonisation and Misogyny
Minor: Mental illness
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