I had two younger brothers. Since I was the oldest, I was expected to be a role model and set a good example, particularly as there was no father figure.
That was difficult... and I suppose on balance, I failed. My gender was an issue simply by virtue of the feeling that it seemed strangely absent. I knew I wasn't like them, but I didn't know what that actually meant, at least pre-puberty. Which led to my feeling I was somehow gender neutral. The environment was such that there was no feminine alternative - play and interact as one of three boys with all the toys, clothes, games etc. Or do nothing. I chose the latter, and became rather withdrawn, retreating to a world of books and imagination.
I was always 'the quiet one'.