George
Gino, A. (2015). George.
New York, NY: Scholastic Press.
George is a touching story of a young boy who has always identified as a girl. She has always felt this way, but has managed to keep it a secret from everyone, even her family and best friend, Kelly. Despite feeling trapped in a boy's body, she manages ok until one day the teacher announces they will be having tryouts for the class play of Charlotte's Web. George desperately wants to be cast as Charlotte, but the teacher will not allow George to tryout for the part since she is a boy. Of course this devastates George, even more so when she finds out Kelly has gotten the part as Charlotte. However, when George shares her secret with Kelly, they both come up with a plan for George to get to play Charlotte and also to somewhat live the life she wants to live...as a girl.
This book is very much needed for children who may be experiencing gender identification issues and/or who have questions surrounding gender identification. I am sure some people would be uncomfortable with this topic for young children, but I think it's important in order to teach acceptance and compassion for others who identify as transgender. The message of "Be Who You Are" is universal and can spark discussion about being true to ourselves.
Alex Gino's website:
Interview with Alex Gino:
Book trailer for George:
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