Good book for someone who is just started transitioning?

[Dora]

I live in the middle of nowhere so my resources to gender information is limited to the internet and the occasional cable TG documentary. I was on Amazon looking at TG books and there are so many to choose from -- I wish I could buy them all. However, money is tight right now so I am asking for recommendations for a good book that you think would be good for someone who just started transitioning.

I guess I am looking for the book that years from now I can look back on fondly knowing that it helped through the rough times. Have you read such a book? I was going to order "Branded T" but then thought I should ask for recommendations first. The only TG book I own is Second Serve which I read as a teenager so it's a bit outdated.

Thanks!

Dora

[lady amarant]

So far, my favourite is "She's not there" by Jenny Boylan. It puts a realistically optimistic light on transition, and I think it's all the more poigniant for the light-hearted writing style it takes. I was giggling and crying at the same time in many places. It's a memoir though, so if you are looking for something more informational, you might want to get something else in addition.

[Brianne]

Dora,

I'm just at the beginning of transition myself, but I've spent years buying books about transsexuality and gender identity.  If you're looking for a book on the process of transition, then I recommend "Transgender Care" by Gianna E. Isreal and Dr Donald E. Tarver II.  The books is aimed at therapists and physicians but I think it's useful for anyone involved in transition. 

I loved Jennifer Finney Boylan's autobiography "She's Not There".  As I read her story I could see a lot of similarities with my own life.   I have "Branded T" by Rosalyn Blumenstein.  I really enjoyed her book.  "Branded T" is a more political book than "She's Not Here".   Blumenstein spends a lot of time reflecting on the politics of gender and how society dehumanizes individuals who go against stereotypes.  She spends a lot of time reflecting on the things a person can do to overcome those prejudices. 

If you're interested in the politics of gender indentity, then a book mentioned earlier, "Whipping Girl," by Julia Serano is a good read.  "Sex Changes" by Pat Califia and "How Sex Changed" by Joanne Meyerowitz deal with the history and politics of transsexuality and both provide points to think about.

I hope this was helpful.  I agree with Renate, it might be useful to check with your local library.  They might have books available that can help you.

Bree

[Dora]

Thank you for the suggestions. The library? Duh... with the internet as my main focus for TG information the idea of going to the library didn't even cross my mind.

>>>I loved Jennifer Finney Boylan's autobiography "She's Not There".  As I read her story I could see a lot of similarities with my own life.   

>>>So far, my favourite is "She's not there" by Jenny Boylan.... I was giggling and crying at the same time in many places.

She's Not There seems closest to what I am looking for. thanks again,

Dora

[cindianna_jones]

Dora, from the top page of the site in the resources section, there are many books listed.

I believe that my book is listed there as well.

Cindi

[Katherine Strawn]

After reading several reviews of "She's Not There" I can hardly wait to start reading it!  I've been reading and answering the questions in My Gender Workbook.  My Gender Workbook lacks substance, in my opinion, and is poorly written, whimsical, and tangential.  It left me with a greater desire to read something coherent and relevant.  Are there any other biographies or books on ->-bleeped-<- that you, dear reader, recommend? 

     I find that the stories of other transgender people help me to feel not so alone in this crazy world.  I've watched several good pieces on the lives of others like Chaz Bono, Kristen Beck, Renee Richards, and other less notables and I feel I better understand myself and this condition I've been keenly aware of since about the age of 10.     

[JoanneB]

My wife came across a great book in our local library. One that my therapist also sang praises of. Its Trans Bodies, Trans Selves. A pretty comprehensive "How To" and "All About" guide book covering just about anything and everything.

[BeverlyAnn]

Are there any other biographies or books on ->-bleeped-<- that you, dear reader, recommend? 

Katherine, "She's Not There" is definitely worth reading.  One that I read and recommend is written by a member here at Susan's.  In fact, I believe the post above you has a link to it.  If not, look on Amazon for "Squirrel Cage" by our own Cindi Jones.  As I said, I read it and then loaned it to my therapist.  She won't give it back. 

[Deborah]

Honestly I find writing and reading here on this forum has helped more than any book I have ever read.  The bare honesty here is refreshing particularly if you don't fit the full stereotype.  I don't and felt really disjointed for a long time because of it.  Here I find that not meeting that stereotype is probably the most common of all.  So, having these specific discussions here allows me to target those things that are really bothering me rather than dancing around the issues in a book written from one perspective.

[Marienz]

Dora, from the top page of the site in the resources section, there are many books listed.

I believe that my book is listed there as well.

Cindi

You wrote your own book Cindi?



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