Author/narrator Jill Gutowitz's collection of reflective essays is funny, insightful, and very queer--in a good way. Her memories of her younger years in the '90s and '00s bring some sadness and, one imagines, healing for her and others. Her storytelling is engaging and often self-deprecating. Reminiscences about the importance of the television show "Orange Is the New Black" and the acceptance of Sapphic fashion--and how they and other iconic moments in pop culture over the last 30 years have transformed the public view of lesbianism--will resonate even with straight folks. No one else could convey her personal vulnerability with the finesse she does. Listeners will find themselves thinking of Gutowitz as a dear friend they need to invite over again.
Pub Date: March 8, 2022
Duration: 7 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781797136738
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Zoë Bossiere gives a quiet, thoughtful performance of their memoir about their trans boyhood in an Arizona trailer park. Their stories of boyhood in the desert are full of contradictions: the ease of being known and understood as a boy by their friends and neighbors, and the alienation caused by teachers who tried to force them into a gender that didn't fit. Their narration is understated but emotional. Their voice is full of tenderness for their younger self, and the adult understanding they bring to stories of their childhood adds layers of depth to already vivid scenes. The skill and nuance with which Bossiere shares their particular trans story is a moving, much-needed counterpoint to the idea that everyone's gender follows a simple linear trajectory.
Pub Date: June 25, 2024
Duration: 8 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9798891788756
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Author and narrator CeCé Telfer shares her compelling and timely story in this candid memoir. Born in Jamaica, CeCé knew she was female from a very early age but faced cultural and family pressure to hide her authentic self. CeCé's delivery is passionate and raw; she doesn't shy away from heartbreaking details. However, her narration is disjointed in parts. As she travels from Jamaica to Canada and New Hampshire, she shares the intimate details of her life. Throughout this journey her passion for running and her talent on the track remain constants. Listeners will find themselves immersed in CeCé's story as they learn about the social and political factors that impact her ability to achieve her goal of competing in the Olympics.
Pub Date: June 18, 2024
Duration: 12 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668641880
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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