A Review of the Book "Melissa" by Alex Gino

Title: Melissa (previously published as George)

Author: Alex Gino

Publisher: Scholastic

Year: 2015

195 pages

From the Back: When people look at George, they think they see a boy. But she knows she's not a boy. She knows she's girl. George thinks she'll have to keep this a secret forever. Then her teacher announce that their class play is going to the Charlotte's Web. George really, really want to play Charlotte. But the teacher says she can't even try out for the part...because she's a boy. With the help of her best friend, Kelly, George comes up with a plan. Not just so she can be Charlotte - but so everyone can know who she is, once and for all.

Personal Thoughts: Before I give my thoughts about the book, I want to give kudos to Alex Gino and Scholastic for republishing this book under its proper name. Because the story isn't about George. It's about Melissa.

    At first, it seems like the story is about a tomboy trying to find her place in the world. But it doesn't take long to realize this story is about a transgender girl trying to figure out what's going on in her life, trying to figure out how to tell the people she loves, and trying to figure out how to live as her authentic self.

    Gino weaves an excellent tale about what it's like to be a young student learning about their gender identity and the struggles that they have in their life at school and at home. For anyone who is transgender, whether school age or adult, it is easy to relate to the struggles that are found in this story. Melissa knows who she is but the world is telling her she is something else. And when she tries to be herself, she runs into bullies, into teachers who don't listen, and parents who don't listen.

    Thanks heavens for Kelly, Melissa's best friend. We all need a Kelly in our lives, but especially kids in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and even more especially transgender kids. Kelly is the best ally a kid like Melissa could ask for.

    Being that this is a young adult book, it was a very easy read but it was super well done and I think everyone could use an easy read that gives insight to what it means to be a school-aged transgender person. Whether you are an ally wanting to get more of an understanding, or someone who is questioning their gender and wants someone to relate with, go and pick up Melissa at your local library or book store. You won't regret it.