The transgender experience is a unique one. In order to understand ourselves and others, it can be helpful to hear from other people with similar experiences. Here are a few resources to get you started on your journey toward empathy and acceptance!

For Trans People

PFLAG’s “Be Yourself” – This publication directly addresses many questions that transgender people (and especially youth) have about their identities and their lives. “Be Yourself” talks about everything from questioning sexuality to safety to coming out. This publication is not trans-specific, but does talk about gender identity and transitioning.

For Allies

PFLAG’s “Our Trans Loved Ones” – This general primer answers common questions and then goes on to address trans issues at every stage of life. Readers are directed to a plethora of resources for both transgender people and allies. Additionally, the PDF provides stories from parents and spouses. “Our Trans Loved Ones” is highly recommended for anyone who would like to be an informed and supportive ally.

PFLAG’s “Our Children” – Similar to “Our Trans Loved Ones,” this shorter guide provides resources specifically aimed at the parents of LGBTQ children. This publication is not specific to trans experiences, but does include gender in its topics.

PFLAG’s “Guide to Being a Straight Ally” – Especially useful for educators, this publication addresses ways that straight (and cisgender) allies can make a significant difference in the lives of LGBTQ+ people. With an upbeat and supportive tone, the guide gives concrete strategies and information perfect for anyone looking to broaden their understanding.

“A Nurse’s Complete Guide to Gender Affirming Care” – An informative page giving an overview of healthcare best practices for transgender patients. Its target audience is medical providers with little to no prior knowledge around the trans experience, but the information is written accessibly. The page also has several handy follow-up resources for further learning.

“The Evolution of LGBTQIA+ Narratives on Broadway” is an article describing the history of queer representation in theatre. This short but thorough article details the ways that LGBTQ+ themes have shown up on stage throughout history. It’s thoroughly cited, allowing readers to learn further about any elements that particularly interest them.

More Books!

My research for this project lead me to far more than the eight books featured on this site. I couldn’t reasonably write about all of them, so here is the list of every book I read on my Advanced Work quest. Several of these books address the more serious realities of being transgender, so all readers should be informed of their content before continuing.

• The Hidden Witch by Molly Ostertag – The sequel to Witch Boy, with a further sequel coming out Winter 2019.
• The 57 Bus by Dashka Slater – A deep and challenging investigation of a real act of violence against a transfeminine person. This book is appropriate for readers over sixteen.
• Mask of Shadows by Linsey Miller – A fantasy YA novel telling the tale of a nonbinary assassin-in-training.
• When the Moon Was Ours by Anna-Marie McLemore – A YA story about a transgender boy with gorgeous threads of poetry and magic.
• The Other Boy by M.G. Hennessey – A late middle reader/early YA novel about a transgender boy on his middle school’s baseball team. This deals with transphobia and bullying more than many of the others, making it a more challenging read.
• If I Was Your Girl by Meredith Russo – A YA novel about a transgender girl in high school. This powerful story is very difficult – readers should be aware of discussions suicide, sexual assault, violence, and transphobia.