I Read Queer Books

So good I bought two copies

From the publisher:

“In this vibrant and affirming comics anthology, 29 trans & nonbinary comic artists share their personal journeys of self-discovery and acceptance.

Featuring the work of Sage Coffey, Kyla Aiko, and Coco Ouwerkerk, The Out Side: Trans & Nonbinary Comics includes 29 creators’ tales of self-love and affirmation and detailing their experiences with gender and identity. Originally published as a successful Kickstarter campaign, this expanded edition includes comics by Dana Simpson (bestselling author of Phoebe and Her Unicorn), Aidyn Huynh (Snailords), Wren Chavers, and more.

Equal parts encouraging, comforting, and life-affirming, The Out Side is a love letter to the trans and nonbinary community, designed to inspire anyone who may be struggling with their own identity and to help educate those who seek greater understanding. As artist Julia Kaye writes in the book’s introduction: “I’m so glad this book exists. It’s a loud proclamation of our existence in the face of a culture that has for too long ignored our experiences.””

My Review

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I am actively trying to engage further in reading comics, as I feel it is an art which definitely goes under-appreciated in the literary space. Also, we need more stories from the lives of queer people which are healing-centered, as opposed to the trauma-centered take which was so common in media for many years. Also, this book just makes me feel so warm and fuzzy inside.

By the time I was at the 25% mark, I had already decided I was going to purchase a copy to gift to a friend. By the time I finished the book, I also purchased a copy for myself 🙂

This collection combines the stories of 29 diverse voices from many different cultural and gender experiences. Every story feels uniquely personal and fresh, sometimes with a bit of humor. The artists are honest about their challenges with self-acceptance and self-discovery in a way which is heartfelt and affirming to the reader. The journey of self is just that – a journey – and I hope we can all be there for one another along the way.

I hope there are 5 more editions of this collection.

Further Resources

You can learn more about supporting trans youth here https://www.thetrevorproject.org/resources/guide/a-guide-to-being-an-ally-to-transgender-and-nonbinary-youth/