big note off the top: I appreciate the writing style of this memoir, and that the audiobook was narrated by the author! it's always a treat when an author reads their own work.

I struggled with some of the terminology (specifically around

kink

) and concepts (specifically around topics like fanfiction). mostly due to it being substantially more graphic than I was anticipating, especially when it came to

sexual exploration as a youth and adult

and descriptions of

medical experiences

. all in all I think I would have benefitted from content warnings, or otherwise some more heads up in chapter names.

all that said I found myself often resonating the experiences explored, and generally appreciated learning more about the ones I didn't have first hand knowledge of. 

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! 

What a joy this was to read. I borrowed a copy of this from my library and am very much considering purchasing a copy to eventually share with my child (they’re too young for some of the content right now). Gender Queer is a graphic novel memoir that follows Maia Kobabe’s (e/em/eir pronouns) deeply personal exploration of eir gender identity. The illustrations are so wonderfully done. It adds another layer of humor and emotion to the accompanying text that shares Kobabe’s personal narrative. Gender Queer is a prime example of the importance of gender affirming care. Beyond just the need for affirming healthcare, Kobabe’s family and friends are depicted in this memoir as unconditionally supportive, thoughtful, caring, and perhaps most importantly - they listen with love and communicate with honesty surrounding the gender and sexuality questions / frustrations Kobabe expresses. E also delves into the complexities of asexuality - what it means, how it impacts relationships, and how it is also a spectrum e explored.

If you haven’t read this, I would absolutely recommend.