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A review by reader_of_rohan
Welcome to St. Hell: My Trans Teen Misadventure: A Graphic Novel by Lewis Hancox
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
4.0
This book is very much a memoir rather than a story, with a 'plot' that doesn't read like a narrative at all. I've seen others complain about the way the dialogue is written, but I found the northern slang and way of speaking came across really well. It felt believable and realistic. I also disagree with those who've complained about the illustrations (which I thought were very sweet) - having borrowed it from a school library, I think it is perfectly appropriate for young people, and they are clearly the target audience.
I really loved the way Lewis spoke to the people in his past, or the way Lewis and his family commented on their own behaviours back when he was little. Bits where his parents reflected on their own actions felt really poignant and hopeful for young trans* readers. I often discuss with kids that their parents may need time to adjust when they come out as trans*, and this doesn't mean that they're not accepting and supportive, but that they have to adjust their understanding of something they think they have known your whole life. This book paralleled that beautifully.
I really loved the way Lewis spoke to the people in his past, or the way Lewis and his family commented on their own behaviours back when he was little. Bits where his parents reflected on their own actions felt really poignant and hopeful for young trans* readers. I often discuss with kids that their parents may need time to adjust when they come out as trans*, and this doesn't mean that they're not accepting and supportive, but that they have to adjust their understanding of something they think they have known your whole life. This book paralleled that beautifully.