Janet Mock is an inspiring individual. I loved her honesty in this book. She is not afraid to point out her own mistakes. I liked how she told the story from her perspective at the time, then added insight as she reflected on the situation as an adult. I think this was a great way to point out the flawed thinking of many gender issues such as what makes ‘realness’. It also demonstrates how she was able to overcome the negativity that society teaches about femininity. In the book, she focuses a lot on intersectionality and calling out white cis culture, which is much needed in society.

This book is very well-written. While many of the events are difficult to read about, Mock’s writing is so open and honest, that the reader feels personally connected to her. You root for her the whole time and just want her to be happy in herself. This book took me a while to read because that. You really have to let yourself be emotional while reading it and be in the right mindset to take it all in.

Her strength and knowledge is truly inspiring. Her journey was amazing, not just in a ‘look how horrible this person’s life was and now it’s so great’ way, but because of how she used her experience to call out society. She doesn’t just pity herself; she stands by her decisions and how they helped make her into the person she is today.

Instead of just accepting a ‘look how far I’ve come’ story, Mock continues to fight for trans acceptance and dispel myths regarding gender and sexuality. I loved her commentary on “passing” and how she explained why she is not required to tell people about her assigned sex at birth. I also liked how Mock refused to just let people focus only on her ‘transition’ story, showing that there is life after the transition and that the transition doesn’t just end with surgery.
A phenomenal read by a phenomenal and talented writer and human being.

Amazing.