The book about trans youth that you need to read

Trans people—especially youth—have been at the center of right-wing political attacks for years now. We've all seen the wave of legislation sweeping statehouses that aims to strip trans people of their rights.

But what we see a lot less often are the beautiful, complex stories of trans kids themselves who are, by and large, just trying to live their lives without interference. Thankfully, the compassionate and supremely talented journalist Nico Lang is working to change that.

I was so hooked and transported by this book that I read the whole thing in just a couple of days—during a period where I was also packing up my house and moving to a new city. It really is that good. Here's why:

• Lang is an extremely skilled writer and storyteller. Each teen is profiled in such vivid detail and lush scenery. We get not only the story of their trans identity, but a full picture of their lives that draws you in and keeps you reading.
• Lang profiles these eight teens with so much care. Each story is unique, and Lang embraces the nuance of each teen's life. Their interests, political beliefs, families, religions and aspirations are all wildly different from each other—a fact Lang does not shy away from, but intentionally highlights.
• These stories remind us what we're fighting for. I find it easy to get lost in the endless political debates and bad-faith arguments. But at the end of the day, the trans kids that Lang profiles want the same things we all want: A life of their own choosing, with the safety and ability to live it freely.

I know that if you pick up a copy of "American Teenager," you're going to love the stories of Wyatt, Rhydian, Mykah, Clint, Ruby, Augie, Jack, and Kylie, just as much as I did. It's a tour of the country that takes you to Florida, California, Texas, Illinois and beyond, with each place teaching you something new and beautiful.

🌈 Happy reading!