Trans Bodies, Trans Selves

Trans Bodies, Trans Selves is a 672-page comprehensive resource guide written by and for transgender and gender nonconforming people. The book covers medical, legal, social, and cultural aspects of transgender life through personal narratives and expert contributions. The text is organized into thematic sections that address topics including coming out, healthcare access, relationships, sexuality, parenting, and workplace issues. Each chapter combines research, practical advice, and first-hand accounts from trans individuals across different backgrounds and experiences. Medical information ranges from hormone therapy to surgical options, while legal content covers identity documents, discrimination protections, and healthcare rights. The cultural sections explore representation in media, art, and literature, as well as the history of trans activism and community organizing. This resource serves as both a practical manual and a reflection of trans communities' collective knowledge and resilience. The collaborative nature of the book, featuring over 200 contributors, represents a shift toward trans people documenting and sharing their own stories and expertise.

Readers describe this resource guide as comprehensive and accessible, written in clear language for both trans people and their families. Many reviewers note its encyclopedic scope covering medical, legal, and social topics. Likes: - Multiple perspectives from diverse trans voices - Detailed medical information and transition options - Practical advice on coming out, relationships, and workplace issues - Inclusion of non-binary and genderqueer experiences Dislikes: - Some sections feel outdated (particularly legal information) - Could use more intersectional perspectives - Medical information can be technical and dense - Limited coverage of detransition experiences Ratings: Goodreads: 4.39/5 (523 ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (244 ratings) "This book answered questions I didn't even know I had" - Goodreads reviewer "Would have benefited from more BIPOC trans voices" - Amazon reviewer "The medical sections helped me have informed conversations with my doctor" - LibraryThing reviewer

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🔹 The book is modeled after the groundbreaking 1970s feminist health resource "Our Bodies, Ourselves" but focuses on transgender and gender non-conforming experiences. 🔹 Over 200 transgender and gender non-conforming individuals contributed their personal stories and expertise to create this comprehensive resource. 🔹 Laura Erickson-Schroth, the editor, is both a psychiatrist and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, bringing both professional and personal insight to the project. 🔹 The first edition sold out its entire print run within just a few months of publication in 2014, demonstrating the significant need for trans-focused health and lifestyle resources. 🔹 The second edition (2022) includes expanded sections on non-binary identities, racial justice, and the impacts of COVID-19 on the trans community.