A review by atoft
Detransition, Baby by Torrey Peters

challenging emotional funny reflective tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Detransition, Baby is more of a character study than a plot heavy book. It took me a little while to get into the right headspace in terms of not expecting lots of forward momentum to the story. But it was worth it, as the book features incredibly rich, complex characters with detailed inner lives. We are given plenty of opportunity to see the inner workings of each of the three main characters, getting an idea of their thoughts and spending time in flashback chapters to understand what's led them to their current point in life. Though they each come with very different perspectives, their motivations, wants and needs are always clear, and we can empathise with them in spite of their flaws.

The book grapples with issues of trans culture, queer history and trauma, motherhood, and family. It doesn't shy away from bold opinions or raw details in pursuit of being more accessible or "palatable". At the same time, the book doesn't feel too heavy thanks to a brisk pace, easy writing style, and plenty of lighter moments. The author has also made the wise choice to
leave the book with an ambiguous ending
, which gives us the opportunity to draw our own conclusions based on everything we've come to understand of its characters.

Detransition, Baby was a really worthwhile read. It uses a seemingly unlikely premise as an authentic and insightful window into a trans experience.
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