August is Transgender History Month! Previously this month, we shared some picks for Transgender History Month for Adults. Here are some resources if you are looking for Transgender History Month books for kids and teens. Take a look at these non-fiction selections from our BCCLS catalog that tell the long, rich history of transgender pioneers.
Picturebooks
One Day in June: A Story Inspired by the Life and Activism of Marsha P. Johnson
by Tourmaline (physical)
Award-winning filmmaker and activist Tourmaline recounts the legacy of Marsha P. Johnson: a fellow activist who played an instrumental role in the Stonewall Riots, ultimately leading to the creation of Pride Month.
Sylvia and Marsha Start a Revolution! The Story of Trans Women of Color Who Made LGBTQ+ History
by Joy Michael Ellison (physical)
This book introduces young readers to Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, two friends who dedicated their lives to equality for LGBTQ+ people even in the face of personal danger.
The Fighting Infantryman: The Story of Albert D.J. Cashier, Transgender Civil War Soldier
by Rob Sanders (physical)
In 1861, Irish immigrant Albert D.J. Cashier joined the Union Army to fight in the Civil War. Returning home after three long years and forty battles, he continued to live as a man. It wasn’t until decades later that his gender came into question. How would the people around him react?
If You’re a Kid Like Gavin
by Gavin Grimm and Kyle Lukoff (physical)
If you’re a kid like Gavin, people may want to make decisions for you, like that you might be different than who you know you are and that you don’t deserve respect. But if you’re a kid like Gavin, you speak up.
Ho’onani: Hula Warrior
by Heather Gale (physical)
Ho’onani doesn’t see herself as a wahine (girl) or a kāne (boy). She’s somewhere in the middle, known as māhū. She wants to lead a traditional kāne hula dance and has her teacher’s support, but will she face backlash?
Were I Not a Girl: The Inspiring Story of Dr. James Berry
by Lisa Robinson (physical)
Unable to join the military or medical school because of gender restrictions, Dr. James Berry assumed his uncle’s identity to accomplish his goals. Over the next fifty years, he pursued his dreams, ultimately assuming one of the highest military ranks in Britain.
Middle Grade
Who is Amy Schneider?: Questions on Growing up, Being Curious, and Winning It Big on Jeopardy!
By Amy Schneider (physical)
In eighth grade, Amy Schneider was voted “Most likely to appear on Jeopardy!” by her peers. Eventually she did just that, earning over $1.3 million in prize money on the show and becoming the most successful transgender contestant in its history.
My History, My Gender, Me
by Cassandra Jules Corrigan (physical)
This book takes readers on a journey across history, exploring how gender nonconforming people have changed the world. It engages readers with reflection and activities along the way.
Pauli Murray: The Life of a Pioneering Feminist and Civil Rights Activist
by Rosita Stevens-Holsey (physical)
Written in verse, Stevens-Holsey documents how Murray rose from poverty to challenge racial and gender-based discrimination. She went on to become the first African American student to graduate with a doctorate in law from Yale Law School and laid the legal groundwork for the Brown vs. Board of Education Supreme Court case.
Rachel Levine
by Lisa Bunker (physical, Hoopla eBook)
Rachel Levine occupied many firsts: the first openly transgender government official to hold an office that requires Senate confirmation, the first openly transgender four-star officer in uniform service, and the first female four-star admiral in the commissioned corps.
Young Adult
Trans History: From Ancient Times to Present Day A Graphic Novel
by Alex L. Combs (physical)
From the Roman Empire to the Stonewall Riots, diversity in human gender has existed. This graphic novel explores how this history has shaped understandings of gender and trans identity today.
Transgender Role Models and Pioneers
by Barbara Penne (physical, Hoopla eBook)
“While transgender people have become more visible and gained a measure of acceptance from our cisnormative society in recent years, the need for trans role models to inspire young transgender people is still very real. This title profiles a host of accomplished transgender people who have made their names in a wide range of fields, including sports, politics, activism, entertainment, and the arts.” -From Hoopla
Gender Rebels: 30 Trans, Nonbinary and Gender Expansive Heroes, Past and Present
by Katherine Locke (physical)
This book serves as a glossary, resource guide, and historical text all in one. Readers will come away from it with greater understanding of how crucial protecting the rights of trans and nonbinary people are in our present moment.
Written by:
Allison Woodley
Information and Digital Service Assistant
