A random collection of over 1910 books and audiobooks authored by or about my transgender, intersex sisters, and gender-nonconforming persons all over the world. I read some of them, and I was inspired by some of them. I met some of the authors and heroines, some of them are my best friends, and I had the pleasure and honor of interviewing some of them. If you know of any transgender biography that I have not covered yet, please let me know.
Original title: "Lady Débora: Uma Mulher Trans(criando) Uma Educação Social" (Lady Deborah: A Trans Woman (Creating) A Social Education) by Rodrigo Bravin and Hiran Pinel.
This book was originally an academic master's dissertation defended by Rodrigo Bravin, under the guidance of postdoctoral professor Hiran Pinel, and it is now in the reader's hands in the form of a book, with some revision and updating.
The authors propose to scientifically study Lady Débora, a trans woman (trans woman) who is recognized by her peers and others in her community, as a social educator, whom we call a social (trans) educator, because she surpasses herself and goes beyond in her non-school pedagogical proposal, bringing life to the educational practices that she produces consciously or not.
2023,
Hiran Pinel,
Portuguese,
Rodrigo Bravin,
Full title: "Becoming Wiebke IV: Part IV of a diary written by someone who was born genetically male but roams the world freely as a part-time woman" is the English language edition of "Wiebke werden IV: Teil IV eines Tagebuchs, geschrieben von jemandem, der genetisch männlich ist, und sich in der Welt ungezwungen als Teilzeitfrau bewegt (Jun. 2021 - Dez. 2021)" by Wiebke ter Lichten.
"This is the fourth part of my diary and I strongly recommend reading the earlier parts first. I had ended my third book stating that I wouldn't publish any further parts, unless there'd be major progress to report. At the time I didn't expect that to happen, but it did! I am in transition for a year now and of course I've kept on writing my diary. Now I have reached a point where I think publishing makes sense again. The speed of my progression has increased and my social transition may well be half way through."
2023,
English,
Wiebke ter Lichten,
Full title: "It's Not All About You: Living with a Transsexual Spouse or Partner" by Elisabeth L. Morrissey.
"Your husband tells you he's transsexual. Do you drop him like a hot rock? Could it possibly work out? Read this book! the transsexual process, talking to others, assessing your relationship, finding therapists, maintaining your marriage, jealousy, helping your children adjust, and more. Also for the woman who falls in love with a transsexual. It's not all about him. It's about you."
"Elisabeth Morrissey learned a lot as a volunteer for several years at the Gender Identity Center of Colorado, a transgender support organization, and from her twenty-five-year marriage to a male-to-female transsexual. She is otherwise a homemaker and support system for her spouse, Karen."
2023,
Elisabeth L. Morrissey,
English,
Original title: "Una mujer" (A woman) by Judith Juanhuix.
"The most hidden women in history have always existed. I'm sure you've only known us recently, maybe we're totally new to your world, but we've reached the surface to stay. We're here. And I've written you a book."
There are times in life when we finally see ourselves in fullness. That's when we stop questioning ourselves, we understand ourselves and we decide, simply, to be. Moments of an impressive transformative capacity that mark us because they define us and make us free forever.
In the life of our protagonist, this clarifying and magical photograph came about, after years of intimate doubts about gender identity and sexuality, when she opened Pandora's wardrobe and tried on her partner's sky-blue nightgown: "In the mirror in the room I finally see myself in a shape of my own. I've curdled. The Taboo is broken. Life that used to spin like a spinning top now takes on meaning."
2023,
Judith Juanhuix,
Spanish,
Full title: "Let's Take Time To Understand Transgender People..." by Cathy Heart.
"Do you know what does it really means to be transgender?
Let this book take you on a journey through the complex set of circumstances and personal experiences that will help explain what it really means to be born transgender, a person with a mismatch of body and mind.
Understanding what being trans means requires an open mind, empathy, knowledge and understanding plus the recognition that there is actually huge diversity within the transgender community itself. Without having these traits, it’s impossible to truly understand the trials and tribulations, the challenges and obstacles, or the fears and concerns that the vast majority of trans people face on a daily basis, simply whilst trying to live their authentic lives."
2023,
Cathy Heart,
English,
Full title: "Danica Roem: Biography Book. The Life and Legacy of Danica Roem, America's First Transgender State Legislator" by Ellen Brann.
""Explore the extraordinary journey of Danica Roem, a trailblazing figure in American politics.
Danica Roem: The Life and Legacy’ is a biography that chronicles the inspiring story of America’s First Transgender State Legislator.
It covers her early life struggles, her historic election, and the challenges and triumphs that have shaped her path.
Learn about the resilience, determination, and groundbreaking change she has brought to the political landscape.
Celebrate the remarkable legacy of a true pioneer who redefined what is possible in America."
2023,
Danica Roem,
Ellen Brann,
English,
Full title: "Seven Sundays with Donnie" by Seth Chitwood.
"Seven Sundays with Donnie is a series of snapshots detailing the experiences of an ordained Protestant minister who undertakes the affirmation of her genuine gender identity as she transitions from male to female through surgery, counseling, and her undying faith that she is doing the right thing -- even in light of the potential for damaging professional outcomes and difficult family responses.
Tracing a story of some three years in the making, author Seth Chitwood, a journalist for a USA Today affiliate in the SouthCoast region of Massachusetts, offers a story of seven Sundays in the life of a truly pioneering pathfinder."
2023,
English,
Seth Chitwood,
Full title: "Becoming Wiebke III: Part III of a diary written by someone born genetically male who knows less and less where s/he is on the gender spectrum (Jan - Jun. 2021)" is the English language edition of "Wiebke werden III: Teil III des Tagebuchs von jemandem, der genetisch männlich geboren wurde und sich zunehmend weniger im Gender-Spektrum einordnen kann (Jan. - Jun. 2020)" by Wiebke ter Lichten.
"This is the third part of my diary and I recommend starting with the first two parts if you haven't done so already.
As of June 30th, 2021 I am a 54-year-old father of a 15-year-old son, a single parent for the last thirteen years. Since we live together there is still only a little time for me to be Wiebke, my female persona, at home. I still need to be cautious.
You will read about my progression since the end of my second published diary part. My son has returned home from his stay elsewhere by mid-March so the pace of events has slowed down somewhat again. But it still only took less than half a year to complete this part."
2023,
English,
Wiebke ter Lichten,
Full title: "Danica Roem: The Biography Book. Resilience Beyond Bound: The Courageous Life of Danica Roem" by Shea Ruby.
"Danica Roem, is an American politician and LGBTQ+ activist who left a mark on the world by turning into the main transparently transsexual individual to be chosen for a state council in the US. Her process is a demonstration of fortitude, flexibility, and a persevering quest for equity.
Roem's initial life was set apart by an affection for music and an energy for narrating.
She was brought up in Manassas, Virginia, and fostered a profound appreciation for human expression and local area commitment since early on. As a youngster, Roem played low pitch guitar in a few neighborhood metal groups, involving her music as a stage for self-articulation."
2023,
Danica Roem,
English,
Shea Ruby,
Full title: "Transgender Australia: A History Since 1910" by Noah Riseman.
"Trans and gender diverse people have always been present in Australian life, whether they've lived quiet lives in the country, performed in cabaret shows, worked on the streets or run for parliament. But over the last century there have been remarkable changes in how they have identified and expressed themselves. Transgender Australia is the first book to chart the changing social, medical, legal and lived experiences of trans and gender diverse people in Australia since 1910.
Drawing on over a hundred oral history interviews and previously unexamined documents and media reports, it highlights how trans people have tried to live authentically while navigating a society that often treated them like outcasts. It is the first book to chart the history of gender diverse Australians, exploring both progress and ongoing battles. It is also a celebration of ways that transgender participation has enriched our lives in all its cultural diversity."
2023,
Australia,
English,
Noah Riseman,
Full title: "Transgenders in India: An Introduction" by Veerendra Mishra.
"This introductory volume studies the challenges faced by the transgender community in India. It traces the history of the representation of the community in Hindu texts to understand the evolution of their status within Indian society. The book looks at various themes such as the concept of establishing identity through the processes of 'coming out' and 'transitioning’ and analyses how race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, class, nation, religion, and ability have cross-influenced to shape the transgender experience and trans culture across and beyond the binary.
Lucid and topical, the book debunks myths and critiques the stigma and discrimination surrounding the transgender community. It will be an essential read for scholars and researchers of gender studies, queer studies, exclusion and discrimination studies, political science, sociology, social anthropology, and South Asian studies."
2023,
English,
India,
Veerendra Mishra,
Full title: "The Biography: Raquel Willis" by James Edward Johnson.
"Dive into the empowering journey of Raquel Willis, a trailblazing transgender activist and writer. Her story is a testament to resilience, courage, and the fight for equality. From advocacy to breaking barriers, experience the passion that drives her forward. Uncover the extraordinary life of a true change-maker. Discover 'Raquel Willis: Redefining Possibilities' and be inspired to make a difference."
Raquel Willis is an American transgender rights activist, writer, and media strategist. She has been a prominent figure in advocating for the rights and visibility of transgender individuals. Raquel has worked with various organizations and platforms to raise awareness about issues affecting the transgender community, such as discrimination, violence, and healthcare disparities.
She has contributed to several publications and media outlets, sharing her insights and experiences to bring attention to the challenges faced by transgender people. Raquel has also been involved in organizing and participating in events that promote inclusivity and equality.
2023,
English,
James Edward Johnson,
Raquel Willis,
Full title: Championing Change: The Resilient Path of Lia Thomas: A Remarkable Journey of Transformation, Diversity, and Triumph in Competitive Swimming" by Loretta C. Ashby.
"The book is an inspirational biography that details the incredible journey of Lia Thomas, a groundbreaking figure in the sports industry. This book explores Lia's persistent resolve, resiliency, and the courage it takes to pave the road for diversity and change in competitive swimming from her early obstacles to her ground-breaking accomplishments.
Explore the inspiring tale of a real champion who, in addition to dominating in the pool, championed a movement that changed sports as we know it."
2023,
English,
Lia Thomas,
Loretta C. Ashby,
Original title: "Es ist nie zu Spät: Transition" (It's never too late: Transition) by Marie-Luisa Quolke.
It is never too late to take the step of transition. My name is Marie-Luisa Quolke and I was born as a boy in Berlin in 1960.
I quickly realized that something was wrong with me. Even as a child, I knew that I was different from other boys, but I couldn't express it at that time because society wasn't ready for it yet. So it took me almost 5 decades to live my true self. I tried to write this down in this book. From over 40 years of suffering to becoming a happy woman.
2023,
German,
Marie-Luisa Quolke,
Full title: "Hijras: Who We Are" by Meena Balaji as told to Ruth Lor Malloy.
"This is a booklet about the unique hijra (aka eunuch) cult in India. They are a secretive people. They worship a Mother Goddess who demands infertility of her followers. In return disciples believe she gives them the power to bless and curse. They are severely discriminated against. Many become beggars and prostitutes to survive.
In 1997 Canadian Ruth Lor Malloy and a group of multifaith volunteers in Mumbai put this booklet together for the hijras to sell when they were begging. It made headlines world wide. It is an interview with a hijra guru about her society, customs, religion, ritual castration and much more."
2023,
English,
India,
Meena Balaji,
Ruth Lor Malloy,
Full title: "Danica Roem: An Exploring Excursion in Legislative Issues and Promotion" by Rosa Rollins.
"In the peaceful rural areas of Manassas, Virginia, a decided soul started to arise. This is the narrative of Danica Roem, a lady whose excursion rises above the ordinary limits of governmental issues, getting things started as she explores the intricate convergence of character, diligence, and public help.
Danica's initial years established the groundwork for the versatile person that would later characterize her.
Brought up in Manassas, she encountered the normal difficulties of pre-adulthood yet additionally wrestled with a significant identity disclosure. This part digs into the developmental minutes that molded Danica's personality, investigating the subtleties
of her initial life and the seeds of her future activism."
2023,
Danica Roem,
English,
Rosa Rollins,
Original title: "Sei eine Göttin!: Der unverbindliche Ratgeber für die souveräne Transfrau" (Be a goddess!: The non-binding guide for the confident trans woman) by Constanze Czech.
This is a short and lively guide for trans women on the way to their new, beautiful life. Topics: Medicine, psychology, shamanism, BDSM, emergencies, self-determination law, who am I? Who do I want to be? What makes a woman so special? Diagnosed with autism and cancer.
2023,
Constanze Czech,
German,
Full title: "Transformative Surgeries: What to Expect at Each Surgical Stage of your Transgender Journey" by Christina Vegas.
"Transitioning in and of itself is an extremely challenging process. Add-in the multiple surgeries during this scary, sometimes-tumultuous journey can be incredibly overwhelming.
When I started transitioning, I couldn’t find many books on the subject of trans surgeries. There was lots of information about each procedure but not a lot of information on what each one was really like. A few of these procedures have a profound impact on your life, and I was desperate to know what they were like. I had so many questions: How long does it really take to recover? Were you happy with the results? Did they address your dysphoria?"
2023,
Christina Vegas,
English,
Interview,
Full title: "Amy Schneider Biography: The History of Amy Schneider" by Mark Wilson.
"In "Amy Schneider: Redefining Authenticity," we explore the remarkable life story of a person who broke down boundaries, went beyond accepted social mores, and made a lasting impression on the globe. The amazing life of Amy Schneider, whose name has come to represent bravery, tenacity, and the value of genuineness, is told in this book.
Amy's steadfast dedication to being her own self is at the core of her biography. Amy's tale, from her self-discovering early years to her historic debut on the beloved game show "Jeopardy!," is proof of the transformational power of honesty. Her story disproves popular belief and honors the ability to overcome social norms.
2023,
Amy Schneider,
English,
Mark Wilson,
Full title: "Jan Morris: Life from Both Sides - A Biography" by Paul Clements.
"The first full account of the remarkable life of Jan writer, soldier, traveller, and trans pioneer. Jan Morris is widely considered one of Britain’s best-loved writers, known for her observational genius, lyricism, and humour. Born in 1926, she spent her childhood amidst Oxford’s Gothic beauty and later participated in military service in Italy and the Middle East, before becoming an internationally fêted foreign correspondent.
However, public success masked a private dilemma that was only resolved when she transitioned genders in the late sixties. She went on to live happily with her wife Elizabeth in Wales for another five decades, and never stopped writing and publishing. Here, for the first time, the many strands of Morris’s rich and at times paradoxical life are brought together."
2023,
English,
Jan Morris,
Paul Clements,
