jackalope84's review against another edition
4.0
A great book focused on a trans man. I really resonated with some of the things he said, especially about how he always wondered and panicked a little about EVERYONE FINDING OUT! I felt that. I did feel like some of the interviews were awkward and wondered why they had been included (like with ReDICKulous) but it’s a good read. It was published in 2013 so some things are outdated.
eawillis's review against another edition
Hmm... Very unsure about where I fall on this one. Perhaps a searing and honest collage of a man's life? Perhaps it was reaching, but fell flat. At times it felt like it was nearing a powerful critique and deconstruction of masculinity, but either shied away -- or even settled for a misogynistic/homophobic/transphobic definition of masculinity.
lovelyandmorbid's review
4.0
good engaging writing with funny asides and footnotes. Interesting insights. Clearly from an older trans generation. Very rant-y but in the best way. A poignant but casual read.
daniellemohlman's review
5.0
Gender studies classes, independent research, and incredibly smart friends aren’t going to teach you everything about the transgender community. And neither will this book. But it sure as hell is a start.
Cooper explores every insecurity, every hope, every joy about his FTM identity. He is uncensored in the way he explores how his parents might perceive him, his stories about his wife and step children are beautiful, and his examination of the LGBT community’s need to be more vocal about trans issues is so subtle you don’t even realize you’re being taught. Cooper is brave, yes, but more than that he is unfiltered, honest, and eloquent. And no matter how many times he questions the issue, he is a “real” man.
Put it at the top of your reading list, folks. We can all afford to listen.
Cooper explores every insecurity, every hope, every joy about his FTM identity. He is uncensored in the way he explores how his parents might perceive him, his stories about his wife and step children are beautiful, and his examination of the LGBT community’s need to be more vocal about trans issues is so subtle you don’t even realize you’re being taught. Cooper is brave, yes, but more than that he is unfiltered, honest, and eloquent. And no matter how many times he questions the issue, he is a “real” man.
Put it at the top of your reading list, folks. We can all afford to listen.
More...