This graphic novel gave me so much to think about. I went into it without any expectations other than it has been banned, so I know the stupid conservatives hate it. Honestly that's always a plus to me. I found myself introspectively reading it; there was a lot more identifying going on than I expected. I really, really appreciate how raw, real, and relatable Maia was with this book. People all over the world can identify with eir feelings, and they probably don't even know it yet. If someone doesn't identify with any of Maia's feelings, they probably know someone who does. 

*1/2-1 star off for the multiple Harry Potter references. I understand that Maia is trans, so e is someone who should be able to discuss HP if ey want. However it is still triggering, and I just wish we could erase all mentions everywhere by everyone since JKR keeps furthering her harmful anti-trans views and desire for anti-trans regulations passed everywhere. I think everyone, including all trans people, should reevaluate what about JKR is so valuable to them despite the hurt and harm she causes. I was hoping that since I bought the new special edition, all HP references would have been edited out. Mentioning HP instead of keeping it vague adds nothing positive to the story. It just adds triggering content.*

This is such an important book for people to read to see non-binary and asexual rep! I learned quite a bit and felt I understood asexuality and NBs better. I enjoyed the art style but felt the story jumped all over the place which led to some whiplash. I also didn’t love the numerous Harry Potter references-I understand that the series was an important part of eir’s childhood and Led to a love of reading but it felt excessive. E also talked about a ship between Sam and Dean (which is incest btw?!) which felt icky. Overall I’d recommend it and I love that e can hopefully give words and understanding to other kids out there that may struggle with gender identity! 

I employed this book. You can tell the author struggles with eir identity as I do with mine. It doesn’t have a complete ending but that makes sense to me as the story isn’t over for em. I hope eir life does give em the happiness e are looking for.

So many big thoughts and emotions. I relate to almost all of eir experiences. I felt so seen yet so sad for the confusion and loneliness both of us possessed for so long. So tender yet informative, heartbreaking yet hopeful. Must read for everyone. Redefined what a graphic novel can look like for me.

I’m hopefully going to come back and add to my review once I detangle some of my feelings.

CW for transphobia, homophobia, medical content and trauma, Harry Potter references pre-JKR was openly a blatant transphobe, blood, vomit

This book was kind of all over the place in content, but the art style was pretty and I think it's important that books like these exist so queer kids don't feel so alone. 

I greatly appreciated Kobabe  sharing so much of eir story. And I think the graphic novel format really supports the telling of eir journey. I did struggle with the jumping around from topic to topic. Sometimes I could see the connection line from one thing to the next. But I couldn’t always. And found myself struggling to understand where different things fit within a timeline as a result. However, I do expect I’ll read this book again. And I feel sure I’ll follow and understand better now that I have a general idea of Kobabe’s story.