Booklist
Just Add Hormones- An explanation of hormonal transition, based largely on the experiences of the author, Matt Kailey, a transgender man (part memoir part guide to physically transitioning).
The Testosterone Files- This memoir covers Max Valerio’s journey from lesbian radical feminist to male. As a poet, he delves into the issues surrounding gender and hormonal transition with beautiful language and great detail.
Becoming a Visible Man- Another transition memoir, this one by the well-known trans* activist Jamison Green. His very relatable and accessible story follows him through his transition and beyond to his life beyond transition. One of the best books on FtM transition.
Gender Outlaw- Part memoir part manifesto, Kate Bornstein explores gender variance and society and asks thought-provoking questions about our gendered world. While the author is MtF, her story is absolutely applicable to pretty much anyone, and is particularly great for people on the genderqueer side of things.
Nobody Passes- This anthology explores issues surrounding gender and conformity and its intersections with other issues such as disability, race, religion, and class.
Transgender History- A great, informative book by Susan Stryker on the history of the transgender rights movement and, to a lesser extent, transgender people in general.
Gender Outlaws, the Next Generation- A more recent anthology containing works by young trans* and queer individuals about genderfucking and transitioning in the 21st century.
GENDERqUEER- An anthology that explores all things gender variant, includes narratives from intersex, transgender, and genderqueer individuals.
Transgender Explained for Those Who Are Not- A book by Joanne Herman that’s great to give to family members who want to learn but just don’t seem to be able to understand.
Transgender 101: A Simple Guide to a Complex Issue- Another great book to share with family members and others who need a basic guide to gender dysphoria, gender identity, and the different processes of transitioning.
Transgender Warriors: Making History From Joan of Arc to Dennis Rodman - A book by Leslie Feinberg that explores the numerous accounts of trans* individuals throughout history. It’s multisided approach to retracing trans*people’s footsteps back in time prompts all readers to consider the spectrum of human identities and realize these identities are nothing new.
Balancing on the Mechitza- A great anthology on being transgender and Jewish.
Letters for My Brothers- Pretty much exactly what it sounds like, letters written by trans* men further along in their transition sharing words of wisdom for the next generation. Absolutely amazing and inspiring.
The Nearest Exit May Be Behind You- A book of essays on gender, sexuality, and identity by S. Bear Bergman. Explores themes like relationships with other trans* men, masculinity, religion, family, and gender non-conformity.
Hung Jury: Testimonials of Genital Surgery by Transsexual Men- An anthology of writings by men who have had bottom surgery. There aren’t a whole lot of places out there where you can read about guy’s experiences with bottom surgery and so this book is an excellent resource if just for that.
Advice on life for the modern trans man
