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bcurry 's review for:
I read this book because it was on so many “queer and trans must read” book lists. Though after getting through the first chapter or two, the excitement I initially felt began to wear off.
This feels like a book for allies who need an inspirational story to rally behind. It’s simplistic, though I don’t say that to be negative. Sarah McBride takes the time to explain important terminology in simple terms that made it clear that this was an entry level queer and trans read. I want to give this to straight, cisgender friends and family who would benefit from reading about trans hardship, loss and victory all mixed into one. For allies, it has the beautiful, inspirational ending that not all trans stories have.
I don’t regret reading it and I certainly could have stopped along the way. The internal struggles Sarah faced paired with the loss of her husband gave me space to be introspective. I connected and grieved with her at times. The book has it’s difficult moments, but at the end of the day, there are many privileges McBride experienced in her coming out journey that aren’t afforded to most. She does a great job at acknowledging these things but it didn’t always seem like enough.
TLDR: If you’re reading this because you’re also part of the LGBTQIA+ community, expect an elementary read. For a greater impact, give it to an ally who’s looking for resources and stories of queer and trans individuals.
This feels like a book for allies who need an inspirational story to rally behind. It’s simplistic, though I don’t say that to be negative. Sarah McBride takes the time to explain important terminology in simple terms that made it clear that this was an entry level queer and trans read. I want to give this to straight, cisgender friends and family who would benefit from reading about trans hardship, loss and victory all mixed into one. For allies, it has the beautiful, inspirational ending that not all trans stories have.
I don’t regret reading it and I certainly could have stopped along the way. The internal struggles Sarah faced paired with the loss of her husband gave me space to be introspective. I connected and grieved with her at times. The book has it’s difficult moments, but at the end of the day, there are many privileges McBride experienced in her coming out journey that aren’t afforded to most. She does a great job at acknowledging these things but it didn’t always seem like enough.
TLDR: If you’re reading this because you’re also part of the LGBTQIA+ community, expect an elementary read. For a greater impact, give it to an ally who’s looking for resources and stories of queer and trans individuals.