Photo credit: bookriot.com
On April 16th, the UK Supreme Court determined that the term “women,” as outlined in the Equality Act, is limited to individuals assigned female at birth. This ruling poses a significant setback for equality efforts and further jeopardizes the rights of an already marginalized group. The case was initiated by For Women Scotland, an organization known for its anti-trans stance and backed by notable figures such as JK Rowling.
If you still support the Harry Potter franchise, reconsider your choices. Financing JK Rowling indirectly sustains initiatives that seek to undermine the rights of trans individuals. It is advisable to refrain from purchasing any Harry Potter merchandise or engaging with future adaptations. Nostalgic attachments to the series cannot outweigh the considerable damage her actions inflict on trans communities.
In the wake of distressing events affecting marginalized groups, there is often a surge of reading recommendations circulating social media. However, while reading is essential, it alone cannot substitute for action. I have curated a list of noteworthy trans women and transfeminine authors from the UK whose works deserve attention, but remember, mere reading is insufficient.
There are various ways individuals can combat the growing threats of fascism, white supremacy, and anti-trans sentiments worldwide, as these issues are interconnected. Regardless of your location, you can take meaningful steps toward advocacy. Dazed offers a comprehensive guide on supporting trans individuals in the UK today, which serves as an excellent starting point. Here’s a summary of actions you can consider:
Engage Politically. Familiarize yourself with your elected officials’ stances on trans rights. Support candidates who advocate for trans issues. Reach out to your representatives through calls or letters, expressing your support for trans rights and opposing anti-trans legislation, whether you reside in the UK, US, or elsewhere.
Participate in Protests. Recent protests and marches have arisen in response to the court ruling, and this momentum is expected to persist. Seek out local protests and lend your presence and support.
Contribute to Crowdfunding Campaigns. Transition-related medical procedures can be cost-prohibitive. Many trans individuals depend on crowdfunding for essential medical care, often relying on widespread small donations from supporters.
Support Trans Nonprofits. Consider donating to organizations like Mermaids and Gendered Intelligence that provide critical resources and support for the trans community.
Commit to Ongoing Education. Take the time to read books written by trans authors and follow trans creators on social media. Explore the wealth of available resources to answer any questions you may have.
Amplify Trans Voices and Support Trans Artists. Use your platform to share and promote the work of trans individuals, whether it’s in activism or creative fields. Invest in their books, artworks, or memberships on platforms like Patreon.
Though reading books authored by trans individuals is vital, it is essential to pair this with other forms of activism, such as education and support. Here is a selection of ten impactful titles from UK trans women and transfeminine authors that should be on your reading list, along with several additional recommendations.
Nonfiction by UK Trans Women and Transfeminine Authors
Conundrum by Jan Morris
This seminal work, first published in 1974, stands as one of the earliest memoirs by a trans person. Morris, a recognized travel writer prior to her transition, recounts her personal journey toward self-discovery and the pursuit of gender-affirming care.
Critic Stephanie Burt explores the legacy of this memoir in her article, “The Conundrum of Conundrum.”
None of the Above: Reflections on Life beyond the Binary by Travis Alabanza
Travis Alabanza, a prominent trans writer and performer, structures this memoir around seven distinct phrases reflecting both negative and affirming experiences throughout their life. These reflections delve into the complex intersections of gender identity and race, as well as the empowerment found in queer communities and performance art. —Laura Sackton
Uncomfortable Labels: My Life as a Gay Autistic Trans Woman by Laura Kate Dale
This memoir by Laura Kate Dale candidly explores the intricacies of her identity as a gay autistic trans woman, detailing how these identities intersected throughout her upbringing and personal experiences. The narrative balances honesty with humor, making it relatable for anyone who has ever felt out of place. —Susie Dumond
To My Trans Sisters edited by Charlie Craggs
This compilation features letters directed from trans women to their peers, creating a sense of camaraderie and solidarity. Edited by Craggs, this book collects narratives and insights from over seventy contributors, including those who identify beyond the binary. The wisdom shared within is timeless and resonates with readers long after reading. —Abby Hargreaves
Transitional: In One Way or Another, We All Transition by Munroe Bergdorf
This work merges memoir, journalism, and cultural commentary as Munroe Bergdorf discusses the various transitions we experience throughout life. Sharing personal anecdotes regarding friendships, romantic entanglements, family dynamics, and creative pursuits, she extends her narrative to examine broader themes surrounding gender, race, and queerness in the UK, all delivered in an engaging conversational tone. —Laura Sackton
Fiction by UK Trans Women and Transfeminine Authors
Her Majesty’s Royal Coven by Juno Dawson
Readers seeking a blend of British workplace fantasy with a strong queer undertone should check out Her Majesty’s Royal Coven. The novel follows four childhood friends who previously fought in a magical conflict and now lead disparate adult lives. When a powerful teen is discovered, their coven becomes embroiled in a battle that underscores the precarious place of trans women within this magical world, all against the backdrop of TERF conflicts. The novel resonates with empathy for trans individuals and youth, as the characters strive to safeguard their community. —R. Nassor
Disappoint Me by Nicola Dinan
In her sophomore novel, Dinan presents the story of Max, a 30-year-old disenchanted trans poet who seeks a transformative life change following a chaotic New Year’s Eve incident. Vincent, a corporate attorney passionate about baking, seems to offer Max a path to conventionality, yet his past threatens to disrupt her aspirations for a traditional lifestyle.
Welcome to Dorley Hall by Alyson Greaves
Alyson Greaves delivers a gripping narrative in this dark thriller, centering on Stefan as he uncovers a scheme involving men disappearing from an esteemed institution and being replaced by women bearing their likenesses. Ambitiously, he infiltrates this secretive environment where forced feminization occurs, all driven by his desire for medical transition.
The Library Thief by Kuchenga Shenjé
This historical fiction novel unfolds in Victorian England, where a young woman takes on the role of a bookbinder at Rose Hall, grappling with the complex social dynamics of her surroundings while becoming engrossed in the mystery surrounding the death of the estate’s former lady. Although the protagonist is not trans, several queer and trans characters enrich the narrative, offering a fresh perspective often absent in historical literature.
Tell Me I’m Worthless by Alison Rumfitt
This compelling horror narrative challenges readers with its exploration of dark themes including rape, racism, transphobia, fascism, antisemitism, and eugenics, which are intricately woven into a haunted house story. The plot chronicles the experiences of three friends, with two surviving the ordeal and navigating their diverging paths in the aftermath, creating a poignant reflection on trauma and identity.
For those seeking additional recommendations, explore further lists dedicated to trans literature.
The following comes to you from the Editorial Desk.
This week, we’re revisiting a post that still resonates, as our Managing Editor Vanessa Diaz reflects on the enduring frustration regarding the novel American Dirt. Read on for insights and consider becoming an All Access member to unlock the full article.
Picture this: January 2020, the United States. A book adorned with a striking blue and white cover captures attention across literary circles, presenting a hummingbird motif that evokes both beauty and menace, accompanied by barbed wire imagery that presents a stark contrast. The design appears to resonate with themes of migration and survival.
The narrative follows a bookstore owner in Acapulco forced to flee after cartel violence claims her family during a quinceañera. The ensuing odyssey to the US border to ensure her son’s safety draws the reader into the treacherous realities faced by migrants. Lauded as the book of its season and described as an essential immigration story, American Dirt garnered endorsements from figures like Salma Hayek and Sandra Cisneros, who hailed it as “the great novel of Las Américas.”
Five years on, many still grapple with the impact and representation surrounding this book.
Join us for exclusive content by becoming an All Access member for just $6/month. Unlock a vast library of additional articles, deep dives into themes, must-reads, and more reading challenges.
Source
bookriot.com