A review by livlamentloathe
Redefining Realness: My Path to Womanhood, Identity, Love & So Much More by Janet Mock

dark emotional informative reflective sad slow-paced

4.0

I cannot say I “enjoyed” this read given the struggles Janet faced throughout her life, but I appreciated her honesty and sincerity. I’m glad to have learned from her story. I think this memoir stands on its own, and I recommend it to anyone who doesn’t know much about trans folks. Especially trans women of color. I wish there was more empathy and compassion in the world for kids growing up and experiencing dysphoria. I wish there were more systems in place to give a soft landing to those who felt desperate or alone or anxious.
The scene when Janet put money on the table for her mom was especially fraught for me. That feeling of wanting your parents to care more for you and to notice you struggling is familiar, probably to more than a handful of us. It’s hard to feel both supported and let down by your family.
I am glad Janet was able to grow from her childhood/past. And that she was able to achieve her goals safely considering the danger she was often in. And I think it was pivotal of her to repeat statistics and affirmations that no surgery will make you a “real” girl. You are real. A poignant story with a lot to learn from.
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