Identifying as transgender

This volume in the Transgender Life series offers a useful and accessible introduction to the complexities of what it means to be transgender. Though brief, the material addresses physical and body issues, transness, orientation, relationships, the trans community, being trans at school, and inevitably, transphobia, cissexism, and trans resistance. While part of the information presented may be familiar to some, there are surprises as well. Example: the Intersex Society of North America estimates that approximately 1 in 100 people are intersex. Woods, a trans woman, brings personal expertise and experience to the material and puts a human face on the issues addressed, incorporating photographs of transgender and gender-nonconforming young people. Proper nomenclature, always a complex and sometimes baffling issue, is addressed in sidebar features and a glossary.--Cart, Michael Copyright 2017 Booklist

Gr 9 Up-This top-notch series, which includes meticulously chosen resources and agency contacts, presents a windfall of useful information. The titles address the daily challenges many people face, and provide uplifting motivation, both to transgender individuals and cisgender supporters, in their pursuit of health and happiness. Covering everything from coming out to legal rights and concerns, these comprehensive volumes encourage conversation to promote social tolerance. The many nuances of terminology are thoroughly examined, with authors advocating sensitivity to the dignity of trans folks. Outdated and unaccepted terms are clarified, with special attention given to some that have been embraced with new meaning by the community. Current thoughts on the gender binary versus the gender spectrum and the differences between sexuality and gender identity are also examined. Inspirational stories from renowned and lesser-known individuals and activists in a variety of fields are highlighted, reflecting the evolution of the discourse in the United States. VERDICT An essential series to inform, guide, and support transgender teens. © Copyright 2017. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.