NZ Intermediate School Librarians discussion

The story of George, a ten year old transgender girl. Assigned male at birth, George has always felt like a girl and has given herself the secret name of Melissa. Increasingly uncomfortable being seen as a boy, George wants people to know she is a girl but is terrified of how people will react. George/Melissa first tells her best (and only) friend Holly who is surprised but supportive. Holly then helps George break the news to everyone else - in a rather dramatic way. George then has to deal with a range of reactions - both negative and positive. A great read for kids from aged 10 & up - informative and engaging. Themes of empathy, friendship, accepting other's differences. The interview with the author at the end of the book is also really interesting and provides a valuable insight into challenges faced by transgender children.