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Really Strange
Gender is Really Strange
What does it mean to be trans? Non-Binary? Gender Expansive?
What parts of gender come from society? What parts come from within?
How much is biology, and how much is socialization?
Part of the Really Strange series, this science-based graphic medicine comic addresses these questions and more, revealing the inherent messiness of gender identity and sex. A mysterious amalgam of biology and society, inherently sensed, yet societally-defined, the complexity of gender is revealed through examining neuroscience, biology, hormones, mental health, behaviour and how much of gender comes from society.
Exploring theories, thinkers, terminology, history and gender cultures around the world and across different religions, this easy-to-understand and engaging book will help you to question perceived norms and engage critically with your own gender identity. Get ready to break down the binary B.S. and celebrate gender in all its messy glory!
What parts of gender come from society? What parts come from within?
How much is biology, and how much is socialization?
Part of the Really Strange series, this science-based graphic medicine comic addresses these questions and more, revealing the inherent messiness of gender identity and sex. A mysterious amalgam of biology and society, inherently sensed, yet societally-defined, the complexity of gender is revealed through examining neuroscience, biology, hormones, mental health, behaviour and how much of gender comes from society.
Exploring theories, thinkers, terminology, history and gender cultures around the world and across different religions, this easy-to-understand and engaging book will help you to question perceived norms and engage critically with your own gender identity. Get ready to break down the binary B.S. and celebrate gender in all its messy glory!
40 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2023
6 people are currently reading
679 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 228 reviews
November 10, 2023
gender is really strange caught my eye because of its incredibly accurate title. gender is the weirdest.
it's an educational primer on gender, biological sex, hormones and neuroscience, biology vs socialization, and diverse gender identities. i really appreciate seeing such scientific text in a graphic novel format; it brightens up the academic tone and makes it more readable.
i learned:
‣ TNG, a new and helpful acronym which i'd previously just considered to be the trans umbrella. it stands for trans, nonbinary, and gender expansive.
‣ more about various intersex situations, which i've never known much about. it's helpful to be able to conceptualize the actual ways that being intersex can manifest.
‣ a lot about different indigenous gender identities. this was my favorite section of the book (perhaps because it's more anthropological rather than scientific). it's mind blowing that there are so many different expressions of gender, free to flourish if uncolonized. i also appreciate the emphasis on letting these identities stand on their own, rather than warping them to fit our restrictive western categories.
my only concern is about the target audience for this short graphic novel. it covers the basics, yet is very academic, so i hope it will still be accessible for the average reader.
the final pages include discussion of how to figure out your own gender, and has helpful questions to ask yourself. i love how goetz reiterates that there are many unknowns, and that we are all on gender journeys, regardless of whether we are trans. gender is messy and complicated, so it's normal to have some stuff to figure out.
the end note citations are extensive and appreciated as well. apparently goetz is a biochemist and psychiatrist, which is a great background for the job, and they seriously did their research.
Thank you to NetGalley and Jessica Kingsley Publishers for providing me with a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
it's an educational primer on gender, biological sex, hormones and neuroscience, biology vs socialization, and diverse gender identities. i really appreciate seeing such scientific text in a graphic novel format; it brightens up the academic tone and makes it more readable.
i learned:
‣ TNG, a new and helpful acronym which i'd previously just considered to be the trans umbrella. it stands for trans, nonbinary, and gender expansive.
‣ more about various intersex situations, which i've never known much about. it's helpful to be able to conceptualize the actual ways that being intersex can manifest.
‣ a lot about different indigenous gender identities. this was my favorite section of the book (perhaps because it's more anthropological rather than scientific). it's mind blowing that there are so many different expressions of gender, free to flourish if uncolonized. i also appreciate the emphasis on letting these identities stand on their own, rather than warping them to fit our restrictive western categories.
my only concern is about the target audience for this short graphic novel. it covers the basics, yet is very academic, so i hope it will still be accessible for the average reader.
the final pages include discussion of how to figure out your own gender, and has helpful questions to ask yourself. i love how goetz reiterates that there are many unknowns, and that we are all on gender journeys, regardless of whether we are trans. gender is messy and complicated, so it's normal to have some stuff to figure out.
the end note citations are extensive and appreciated as well. apparently goetz is a biochemist and psychiatrist, which is a great background for the job, and they seriously did their research.
Thank you to NetGalley and Jessica Kingsley Publishers for providing me with a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
September 24, 2023
Short in length but expansive in subject, Gender is Really Strange is a great informative, accessible introduction to a discussion of gender.
This graphic novel tackles various aspects of gender: how it is different from sex, how colonization led to erasing native cultural expressions of gender (or lack of it), how hormones work, and how and why people question their gender, among other topics.
It is a surface introduction to these topics, so don't expect something super in-depth if you already know these topics; the audience for this is people who know little to nothing about how gender really is just a social construct, and provides tools to help people take their first steps in deconstructing the gender binary on a personal level.
Though I was aware of many topics in here, I still found this very informative; I especially enjoyed the section on various native presentations of gender (or lack thereof) that colonization's enforcement of the gender binary eventually eclipsed.
We can always stand to learn something new, and Gender is Really Strange is a fantastic way to do so.
Thanks to NetGalley and Jessica Kingsley Publishers for the opportunity to read this. Gender is Really Strange will be released on October 19th.
This graphic novel tackles various aspects of gender: how it is different from sex, how colonization led to erasing native cultural expressions of gender (or lack of it), how hormones work, and how and why people question their gender, among other topics.
It is a surface introduction to these topics, so don't expect something super in-depth if you already know these topics; the audience for this is people who know little to nothing about how gender really is just a social construct, and provides tools to help people take their first steps in deconstructing the gender binary on a personal level.
Though I was aware of many topics in here, I still found this very informative; I especially enjoyed the section on various native presentations of gender (or lack thereof) that colonization's enforcement of the gender binary eventually eclipsed.
We can always stand to learn something new, and Gender is Really Strange is a fantastic way to do so.
Thanks to NetGalley and Jessica Kingsley Publishers for the opportunity to read this. Gender is Really Strange will be released on October 19th.
June 24, 2023
Graphic novels aren't really my thing, but I needed one for the "Decolonize Your Books" challenge by Black Walnut Books. I was pleasantly surprised by this one!
Gender Is Really Strange is an educational, accessible introduction to the difference between sex and gender, gender as a social construct, and further expands on what it means to be trans, intersex, non-binary, gender-expansive, agender, gender fluid, and many many other labels. Additionally, the authors provide a historical and anthropological overview of gender diversity (I think this was my favorite part), as well as an explanation of the impact of white supremacy on gender norms, and how that plays out in communities of color. There're also sections on sports, science, and more!
This really is quite comprehensive for a graphic novel, with cited sources. I'm impressed!
I studied gender in university so much of this was a refresher for me - but even so, I still learned some things and I can see how this will be a great resource for teens and adults alike!
Note: this was difficult to read on a Kindle, as the pictures showed up sideways and the font was tiny and unable to be enlarged. This did not impact my rating. 💕
Thanks to Jessica Kingsley Publishing & NetGalley for my eARC.
Gender Is Really Strange is an educational, accessible introduction to the difference between sex and gender, gender as a social construct, and further expands on what it means to be trans, intersex, non-binary, gender-expansive, agender, gender fluid, and many many other labels. Additionally, the authors provide a historical and anthropological overview of gender diversity (I think this was my favorite part), as well as an explanation of the impact of white supremacy on gender norms, and how that plays out in communities of color. There're also sections on sports, science, and more!
This really is quite comprehensive for a graphic novel, with cited sources. I'm impressed!
I studied gender in university so much of this was a refresher for me - but even so, I still learned some things and I can see how this will be a great resource for teens and adults alike!
Note: this was difficult to read on a Kindle, as the pictures showed up sideways and the font was tiny and unable to be enlarged. This did not impact my rating. 💕
Thanks to Jessica Kingsley Publishing & NetGalley for my eARC.
July 21, 2023
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC of this book for an honest review.
This book had a lot of helpful information that could help many of people who are questioning their gender or even a parent who is trying to understand their child who is questioning themselves.
This book goes into detail of what each gender is and has graphics of what a person of that gender may look like or experience. It also has really good graphics of the different gender flags that help people express their gender without actually having to voice it if they are uncomfortable.
This book also goes into details about different religions and cultures and what someone of these religions or cultures might be taught to believe in when it comes to gender.
This book had a lot of helpful information that could help many of people who are questioning their gender or even a parent who is trying to understand their child who is questioning themselves.
This book goes into detail of what each gender is and has graphics of what a person of that gender may look like or experience. It also has really good graphics of the different gender flags that help people express their gender without actually having to voice it if they are uncomfortable.
This book also goes into details about different religions and cultures and what someone of these religions or cultures might be taught to believe in when it comes to gender.
July 31, 2023
A short but very informative graphic novel that approaches identity in a way that is accessible to a diverse audience. From the outset, what society defines as 'gender' and 'sex' are distinguished, so people who are unfamiliar with the definitions are at no disadvantage going into the novel. Intersex identities are especially underrepresented in literature and history in general, so the time and information dedicated to educating people on the diversity and prominence of intersex people was great to see. I'd previously read an essay on being a non-binary intersex person by Mari Wrobi in Gender Euphoria, but the additional scientific context provided here added an extra wealth of knowledge. Although 1-2% of the population are officially "documented" as intersex, many live indefinitely unaware that they possess intersex characteristics - PCOS is an example of a trait that is often regarded as intersex which many people would be unaware of. It's a misunderstood identity that does not deserve the stigma it holds, and the beautiful illustrations combined with the clarity of this novel do a great job in getting this message across.
Gender is Really Strange is also extremely comprehensive despite being only 40 pages, covering various arguments that have previously been used to discredit diverse gender identities. For instance, the idea that being gender non-conforming is a new phenomenon. This is entirely false, and as you'll see in this novel, multiple religions, tribes, and cultures have acknowledged the diversity of gender identity for centuries. The fact that gender within the African continent has historically been assigned based on energy is certainly telling of the influence Western ideologies have had in contributing towards a gender-binary. It also signifies the way race and gender are intrinsically linked - the desire to impose a gender binary onto society is reflective of white supremacy and colonialist ideologies - just consider the way body hair is thought of as masculine, and the way WOC are genetically predisposed to grow more body hair than white women.
Some other branches I found particularly interesting are the ways hormones interact differently depending on the gender we're assigned at birth. For instance, higher levels of testosterone present completely different side effects in AMAB people than AFAB people. Equally, the shift in meaning behind being able to 'pass' from a racial to a gendered context.
So often LGBTQ+ people are approached with the expectation that it is their responsibility to educate others on "all these terms and identities" because "it's impossible to keep up". I am happy to explain, and I do actually enjoy being able to educate others, but I can't speak on behalf of everyone in the community. A boundless reliance on singular individuals is counterproductive and shows that you do not care enough to educate yourself. Gender is Really Strange is the perfect concise resource for this, and while it is of course validating for LGBTQ+ people to read, it is equally a vital read for cishet people. It's really not that hard to wrap your head around, if you make the effort to learn.
"Remember, decisions about gender identity do not need to be permanent to be valid, and there is no such thing as "not trans enough.""
Thank you NetGalley for the arc!
Gender is Really Strange is also extremely comprehensive despite being only 40 pages, covering various arguments that have previously been used to discredit diverse gender identities. For instance, the idea that being gender non-conforming is a new phenomenon. This is entirely false, and as you'll see in this novel, multiple religions, tribes, and cultures have acknowledged the diversity of gender identity for centuries. The fact that gender within the African continent has historically been assigned based on energy is certainly telling of the influence Western ideologies have had in contributing towards a gender-binary. It also signifies the way race and gender are intrinsically linked - the desire to impose a gender binary onto society is reflective of white supremacy and colonialist ideologies - just consider the way body hair is thought of as masculine, and the way WOC are genetically predisposed to grow more body hair than white women.
Some other branches I found particularly interesting are the ways hormones interact differently depending on the gender we're assigned at birth. For instance, higher levels of testosterone present completely different side effects in AMAB people than AFAB people. Equally, the shift in meaning behind being able to 'pass' from a racial to a gendered context.
So often LGBTQ+ people are approached with the expectation that it is their responsibility to educate others on "all these terms and identities" because "it's impossible to keep up". I am happy to explain, and I do actually enjoy being able to educate others, but I can't speak on behalf of everyone in the community. A boundless reliance on singular individuals is counterproductive and shows that you do not care enough to educate yourself. Gender is Really Strange is the perfect concise resource for this, and while it is of course validating for LGBTQ+ people to read, it is equally a vital read for cishet people. It's really not that hard to wrap your head around, if you make the effort to learn.
"Remember, decisions about gender identity do not need to be permanent to be valid, and there is no such thing as "not trans enough.""
Thank you NetGalley for the arc!
August 12, 2023
4⭐
Gender is indeed really strange. I really enjoyed this! It's a short 40 page graphic novel filled with important information about gender and identity.
The art style is really beautiful and vibrant, I really loved it!
I will say when I picked this up I was expecting a bit more of like individual stories based on experiences with gender as a whole, but this read a lot more like a textbook. It has a lot of information and a lot of helpful visuals, it also seemed very well researched and had other sources listed at the back of the book which I appreciated.
I do believe books like these should be required in schools!
In 2023 I've been working my way to becoming a better ally for the LGBTQIA+ community and I do think reading books like this really help me learn new things and get a better understanding.
Thank You Netgalley, Teddy G. Goetz & Jessica Kingsley Pub. for an arc in exchange for an honest review! I really appreciate it!
Gender is indeed really strange. I really enjoyed this! It's a short 40 page graphic novel filled with important information about gender and identity.
The art style is really beautiful and vibrant, I really loved it!
I will say when I picked this up I was expecting a bit more of like individual stories based on experiences with gender as a whole, but this read a lot more like a textbook. It has a lot of information and a lot of helpful visuals, it also seemed very well researched and had other sources listed at the back of the book which I appreciated.
I do believe books like these should be required in schools!
In 2023 I've been working my way to becoming a better ally for the LGBTQIA+ community and I do think reading books like this really help me learn new things and get a better understanding.
Thank You Netgalley, Teddy G. Goetz & Jessica Kingsley Pub. for an arc in exchange for an honest review! I really appreciate it!
June 9, 2023
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Netgalley ARC review! Thank you for the opportunity ✨
.
Make this the standard entry point for people needing to learn about gender identity.
This quick, 40 page non fiction graphic novel opens up our perception of gender, and does it well. To preface this, I identify as a demigirl & under the non binary umbrella, I’m bisexual, physically disabled & AuDHD.
The language is scientific & concise from the first page, with sources cited & neutral language. It doesn’t make you feel confused or lost, but doesn’t water down important biological & scientific information, particularly around intersex individuals. The information is intersectional, up to date & open, with focus on delivering the info as is, not embellishing it. I particularly like how the text handles neurodivergence, disability, race, biological sex & intersex bodies, in that none feel overlooked, and the effect being a part of these communities has on gender is important.
Overall a great, snappy read with tons of research & representation.
Netgalley ARC review! Thank you for the opportunity ✨
.
Make this the standard entry point for people needing to learn about gender identity.
This quick, 40 page non fiction graphic novel opens up our perception of gender, and does it well. To preface this, I identify as a demigirl & under the non binary umbrella, I’m bisexual, physically disabled & AuDHD.
The language is scientific & concise from the first page, with sources cited & neutral language. It doesn’t make you feel confused or lost, but doesn’t water down important biological & scientific information, particularly around intersex individuals. The information is intersectional, up to date & open, with focus on delivering the info as is, not embellishing it. I particularly like how the text handles neurodivergence, disability, race, biological sex & intersex bodies, in that none feel overlooked, and the effect being a part of these communities has on gender is important.
Overall a great, snappy read with tons of research & representation.
June 16, 2023
This book does such a great job of interrogating gender and sex, normalizing gender beyond the binary, and validating gender as something that is self-identified and dynamic, with beautiful illustrations providing a visually engaging backdrop. Gender Is Really Strange provides some history of nonbinary gender and even spends a few pages diving into endocrinology, which I found fascinating and is something I haven't seen before in other books and graphic novels about gender. I especially appreciated the last few pages of the book which provide a very brief but profound guide to exploring one's own gender. Highly recommend this to folks interested in questioning and exploring their gender, or who want to learn more about the expansive world of gender identity.
Thank you, NetGalley and Jessica Kingsley Publishers, for the ARC!
Thank you, NetGalley and Jessica Kingsley Publishers, for the ARC!
June 17, 2023
Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC
TBH I dont agree to the tittle that gender is strange. Well, nevermind. I'd like to say that this book is written for people who is wondering "what is gender actually?" AND THIS SHORT GRAPHIC BOOK IS REALLY THE ANSWER TO KNOW CAUSE IT IS WRITTEN BRIEFLY AND SCIENTIFICALLY.
TBH I dont agree to the tittle that gender is strange. Well, nevermind. I'd like to say that this book is written for people who is wondering "what is gender actually?" AND THIS SHORT GRAPHIC BOOK IS REALLY THE ANSWER TO KNOW CAUSE IT IS WRITTEN BRIEFLY AND SCIENTIFICALLY.
July 9, 2023
*thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for a copy in exchange for an honest review*
Gender is definitely really strange. This graphic novel is a great resource for anyone questioning their gender. It’s a balanced mix between the science aspect of sex and the societal, cultural and personal aspects of gender. The questions page at the end is definitely a great place for people to question their gender with examples to help.
Gender is definitely really strange. This graphic novel is a great resource for anyone questioning their gender. It’s a balanced mix between the science aspect of sex and the societal, cultural and personal aspects of gender. The questions page at the end is definitely a great place for people to question their gender with examples to help.
November 9, 2023
Gender Is Really Strange is a fantastic primer on the science, history, and socio-cultural background of gender identity. The bold art in gentle pastel colours is really pleasing to the eye, and the graphic novel layout helps make some complex concepts a lot more accessible. The science behind sex and gender take up the bulk of this short work, but it also manages to address history, culture, and society in eye-opening ways that push back against colonialist, racist, ableist ideas about gender. It covers a multitude of Indigenous communities precolonial ideas about gender that often break the boundaries of the idea of binary men and women.
It's a really informative book that covers a lot of ground in a short amount of space. Much of the information here will be new for a lot of people (not everything here was new for me, but a surprising amount of it was), and although the text feels a bit academic at times, it still manages to be accessible and quick to read. Highly recommended!
It's a really informative book that covers a lot of ground in a short amount of space. Much of the information here will be new for a lot of people (not everything here was new for me, but a surprising amount of it was), and although the text feels a bit academic at times, it still manages to be accessible and quick to read. Highly recommended!
September 10, 2024
A really lovely overview to the history and science of this topic. Very factual and straightforward while clearly stating every where that the science isn’t certain or been studied enough. The history parts did make me truly livid with much I already knew but lots I hadn’t yet.
A great introduction to a complicated matter that encourages personal growth and reflection in just 40 colorful pages.
A great introduction to a complicated matter that encourages personal growth and reflection in just 40 colorful pages.
June 18, 2023
Mixed feelings about this one, it was definitely informative but it also felt too political in a way I can't really explain.
Would be a good choice for parents that want to educate themselves and their children but also for people that don't understand "the weird gender thing".
───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────
💌 June 7, 2023: E-ARC provided via NetGalley. Big thank you to Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
Would be a good choice for parents that want to educate themselves and their children but also for people that don't understand "the weird gender thing".
───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────
💌 June 7, 2023: E-ARC provided via NetGalley. Big thank you to Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
April 6, 2025
Gender is Really Strange
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ (3/5) or 6.57/10 overall
Credibility/Research - 8
Authenticity/Uniqueness - 6
Writing - 7
Personal Impact - 6
Intrigue - 7
Logic/Informativeness - 7
Enjoyment - 5
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ (3/5) or 6.57/10 overall
Credibility/Research - 8
Authenticity/Uniqueness - 6
Writing - 7
Personal Impact - 6
Intrigue - 7
Logic/Informativeness - 7
Enjoyment - 5
July 20, 2023
Thanks so much to NetGalley for the ARC!
This. Is. INCREDIBLE! The illustrations are amazing, the writing is informative but accessible, and the information is so CRITICAL. I cannot wait for this book to be out in the world, and I genuinely hope people pick it up and read it. It's one I know I'll need to return to so I can continue my own education - so so glad this book exists.
Check it out!
This. Is. INCREDIBLE! The illustrations are amazing, the writing is informative but accessible, and the information is so CRITICAL. I cannot wait for this book to be out in the world, and I genuinely hope people pick it up and read it. It's one I know I'll need to return to so I can continue my own education - so so glad this book exists.
Check it out!
October 19, 2023
This short but comprehensive guide is perfect reading for starting the conversation about gender and identity. Informative and beautifully illustrated this book is an excellent starting point for anyone looking for more information on the complex subject. Talking in equal parts about societal constructions of gender in western society through to native cultures where people are not assigned gender at birth. This title will get you to start asking the important questions and is an excellent springboard to other sources for required reading. I highly recommend this for everyone, cis, trans and those beyond the binary.
October 16, 2023
I'm so glad to have had the opportunity to read "Gender is Really Strange" by Teddy G. Goetz. It was a short but excellent introduction to the difference between sex and gender, gender identity and also a brief topic about history of gender (and the differences of gender all over the world). There is also a "chapter" about psychological and mental factors.
The reader can understand what it means to be trans, intersex, non-binary, gender-expansive, agender, gender fluid, and many many other labels.
The graphic style is simple but effective! The color palette gave me some comfort.
You should read it, whether you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community an ally or a person who wants to explore this topic!
[Thank you to NetGalley and Jessica Kingsley Publishers for providing me with a copy of this book in return for an honest review.]
The reader can understand what it means to be trans, intersex, non-binary, gender-expansive, agender, gender fluid, and many many other labels.
The graphic style is simple but effective! The color palette gave me some comfort.
You should read it, whether you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community an ally or a person who wants to explore this topic!
[Thank you to NetGalley and Jessica Kingsley Publishers for providing me with a copy of this book in return for an honest review.]
July 26, 2023
Short yet profound, this book is a great introduction to people unsure about gender and looking to understand things better.
As someone who has been exploring their own gender identity over the past couple of years I thought I knew a lot about it but this book taught me so much! I really enjoyed the section around how other cultures define sexuality. It was yet another reminder that though the Western world thinks it's so progressive, it is so far behind and the idea of gender norms and fixed gender is an outdated, harmful way to make people feel like there's something wrong with them.
I really enjoyed the last section where you were encouraged to explore and consider your own idea of gender identity and why you have that specific idea of certain genders. The book provides sources for everything and also suggests other books to continue your education.
I'll leave you with the last line: 'Trans or cis, we are all on gender journeys, and all gender journeys are valid'.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!
As someone who has been exploring their own gender identity over the past couple of years I thought I knew a lot about it but this book taught me so much! I really enjoyed the section around how other cultures define sexuality. It was yet another reminder that though the Western world thinks it's so progressive, it is so far behind and the idea of gender norms and fixed gender is an outdated, harmful way to make people feel like there's something wrong with them.
I really enjoyed the last section where you were encouraged to explore and consider your own idea of gender identity and why you have that specific idea of certain genders. The book provides sources for everything and also suggests other books to continue your education.
I'll leave you with the last line: 'Trans or cis, we are all on gender journeys, and all gender journeys are valid'.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!
August 11, 2023
this is a very sweet & important read, but i struggled a bit with the part that deals with “neo-pronouns”, as i still have a hard time wrapping my head around them, as well as autigender and such; i felt like the approach to these topics was too neoliberal-y for my taste. other than that, though, it was definitely a lovely read!
i received an arc of this book from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
i received an arc of this book from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 2, 2023
An absolute triumph of graphic nonfiction! The illustrations are beautiful and artistic, complementing the text which is balanced the scientific with the lyrical. Extremely informative on the complexities of gender, sex, culture, and colonialism. This brief and thorough book takes the reader from gender to 101 to 501, but not in the typically overly dense way of most reference texts—this is likely owed in large part to the visuals!
I find it surprising that many of the reviews comment on the intended audience, in that they say this is too intellectual for younger audiences: to which I reply, graphic novels are not just for children!
I find it surprising that many of the reviews comment on the intended audience, in that they say this is too intellectual for younger audiences: to which I reply, graphic novels are not just for children!
July 1, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley for this graphic novel that I enjoyed so much!
When I saw this book, I was very curious about how, in 40 pages and in a graphic novel format, the author would manage to explain or pass on information about the importance of the difference between gender and sex. But the author did, and did it very well!
Throughout the book, we have bits of historical and scientific information. At first, I was afraid it would be too complex or difficult to understand, but it wasn't. This book is for anyone, and I am very glad I read it!
“Trans or cis, we are all on gender journeys. And all gender journeys are valid."
When I saw this book, I was very curious about how, in 40 pages and in a graphic novel format, the author would manage to explain or pass on information about the importance of the difference between gender and sex. But the author did, and did it very well!
Throughout the book, we have bits of historical and scientific information. At first, I was afraid it would be too complex or difficult to understand, but it wasn't. This book is for anyone, and I am very glad I read it!
“Trans or cis, we are all on gender journeys. And all gender journeys are valid."
June 18, 2023
Wow!
This short book is filled with information, I did not expect so much!
I learned a lot, and I considered myself fairly aware and educated about gender identities.
Catch me running to buy a copy (or a few) of this book to keep as reference and a good starting point for conversations with students and other adults honestly.
Reading this book had me screaming at my friends (in such joy) about how great it is. I am genuinely mind blown at how amazing this book is.
It includes (so many more things than I will name here but it would be impossible to summarize all the information given in just a few words):
- neuroqueer identities!!!
- facts about how ridiculous the separation of sports by gender is (including how cisgender women have been forced to take hormone blockers to be allowed to compete!)
- brutally honest explanations (good!!!) about how the current Western world ideas of gender were invented and promoted to keep white people separated from "others" in blatant racism
- so so so many examples of other cultures' ideas of "genders" and identities within the social group that are completely different than the ideas mentioned in the previous point
The book ends on the big question, how do you figure out your own gender, and offers many questions and open thoughts to get the reader started on their exploration and questioning.
"Such identities/roles [non "woman/man" identities] are sometimes referred to collectively as 'third gender,' but coalescing 'third gender' categories is a violent construction of (white-dominated) Western academic discourses and erases Indigenous experiences and culture."
"Much of the research on the 'neuroscience of gender' has been conducted within a dominant framework of cisheteronormative, white supremacist, European, colonial, patriarchal gender norms, with little ethical consideration of how it impacts transgender, non-binary and/or gender expansive persons."
And I could not end this review without mentioning the illustrations. Not only are they beautiful, they're precise when there's explanations that could be confusing and the illustrator managed to visually represent concepts that are difficult to picture. They are so interesting and colourful, I cannot imagine anyone not wanting to pick up this book after seeing the art style. I want so many of the panels as big posters for classrooms.
Thank you NetGalley and Jessica Kingsley Publishers for the opportunity to read this ARC, and thank you to Teddy G. Goetz for writing this book.
This short book is filled with information, I did not expect so much!
I learned a lot, and I considered myself fairly aware and educated about gender identities.
Catch me running to buy a copy (or a few) of this book to keep as reference and a good starting point for conversations with students and other adults honestly.
Reading this book had me screaming at my friends (in such joy) about how great it is. I am genuinely mind blown at how amazing this book is.
It includes (so many more things than I will name here but it would be impossible to summarize all the information given in just a few words):
- neuroqueer identities!!!
- facts about how ridiculous the separation of sports by gender is (including how cisgender women have been forced to take hormone blockers to be allowed to compete!)
- brutally honest explanations (good!!!) about how the current Western world ideas of gender were invented and promoted to keep white people separated from "others" in blatant racism
- so so so many examples of other cultures' ideas of "genders" and identities within the social group that are completely different than the ideas mentioned in the previous point
The book ends on the big question, how do you figure out your own gender, and offers many questions and open thoughts to get the reader started on their exploration and questioning.
"Such identities/roles [non "woman/man" identities] are sometimes referred to collectively as 'third gender,' but coalescing 'third gender' categories is a violent construction of (white-dominated) Western academic discourses and erases Indigenous experiences and culture."
"Much of the research on the 'neuroscience of gender' has been conducted within a dominant framework of cisheteronormative, white supremacist, European, colonial, patriarchal gender norms, with little ethical consideration of how it impacts transgender, non-binary and/or gender expansive persons."
And I could not end this review without mentioning the illustrations. Not only are they beautiful, they're precise when there's explanations that could be confusing and the illustrator managed to visually represent concepts that are difficult to picture. They are so interesting and colourful, I cannot imagine anyone not wanting to pick up this book after seeing the art style. I want so many of the panels as big posters for classrooms.
Thank you NetGalley and Jessica Kingsley Publishers for the opportunity to read this ARC, and thank you to Teddy G. Goetz for writing this book.
June 29, 2023
“Trans or cis, we are all on gender journeys. And all gender journeys are valid.”
I found this book very informing and will definitely pick up a physical copy when it comes out.
I especially appreciated it talks about the history of gender and the role white supremacy played a part in the way we see gender today.
Gender is indeed very strange, but this book makes it a bit easier to understand.
I want to thank NetGalley for an ARC of this book, it did not influence my opinion in any way.
I found this book very informing and will definitely pick up a physical copy when it comes out.
I especially appreciated it talks about the history of gender and the role white supremacy played a part in the way we see gender today.
Gender is indeed very strange, but this book makes it a bit easier to understand.
I want to thank NetGalley for an ARC of this book, it did not influence my opinion in any way.
June 21, 2023
As a woman with PCOS, I have long been curious about just how much gender is influenced by socialization vs. hormonal/anatomical makeup. Gender is Really Strange explained so much in its inclusive, beautifully illustrated 40 pages: the difference between sex and gender, the history of gender, the intersectionality of gender and neurodivergence, myriad cultural understandings of gender that differ from the binary, the still-unknown effect gender has on mental health, and more. I found myself surprised, upset, and uplifted by what I learned from each of these topics.
Teddy G. Goetz’s exploration of gender across history and cultures was particularly revelatory to me. I did not realize the extent to which my white eurocentric culture has limited gender by its binary definitions. I felt my mindset growing from this space of limitation to that of curiosity and greater acceptance. I wholeheartedly believe this growth, and this book, is what my country needs now as we struggle with political attempts to erase not just transgender identities, but actual people, from a fictional, “ideal” version of the world. I did not even know that these ideals and gender norms as they exist today were created so recently! The author’s clarifications that “transgender is a form of self-understanding, not dominant hormones or anatomy”, “hormones don’t have a gender”, and “all gender journeys are valid” were indeed validating and eye-opening to read. I hope by experiencing this book, readers are further encouraged to be curious instead of fearful, as they might find there is more diversity around them than they ever realized. I personally felt that my existence as a woman with PCOS (which I just learned can be considered an intersex condition) was uplifted and celebrated by this book, instead of the shame I am all too often used to feeling. Thank you to author Teddy G. Goetz for this amazing read, and to Jessica Kingsley Publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC!
Teddy G. Goetz’s exploration of gender across history and cultures was particularly revelatory to me. I did not realize the extent to which my white eurocentric culture has limited gender by its binary definitions. I felt my mindset growing from this space of limitation to that of curiosity and greater acceptance. I wholeheartedly believe this growth, and this book, is what my country needs now as we struggle with political attempts to erase not just transgender identities, but actual people, from a fictional, “ideal” version of the world. I did not even know that these ideals and gender norms as they exist today were created so recently! The author’s clarifications that “transgender is a form of self-understanding, not dominant hormones or anatomy”, “hormones don’t have a gender”, and “all gender journeys are valid” were indeed validating and eye-opening to read. I hope by experiencing this book, readers are further encouraged to be curious instead of fearful, as they might find there is more diversity around them than they ever realized. I personally felt that my existence as a woman with PCOS (which I just learned can be considered an intersex condition) was uplifted and celebrated by this book, instead of the shame I am all too often used to feeling. Thank you to author Teddy G. Goetz for this amazing read, and to Jessica Kingsley Publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC!
October 18, 2023
Gender Is Really Strange is a short and informative comic covering the sociological, cultural, and scientific bases for gender. It was a great introductory text that was incredibly well-cited, and while a lot of parts were not new to me as an LGBTQ+ person, I learned a lot from it.
This comic covers a surprisingly wide range of topics. It starts with societal expectations, how sex differs from gender, as well as explores the spectrum of gender identities. The largest portion focuses on different cultures’ expressions of gender (or lack thereof) both today and predating colonialism. I appreciated the vast array of examples in this section, and the dedication to viewing what we know as gender from an anti-imperialistic and anti-white supremacist lens. It was also pleasant to then see the comic delve into the science, discussing the role of hormones in the body and gender in relation to neuroscience, particularly neurodivergence and mental health. The comic’s final message to readers is to question the societal standards with which we so often view gender and explore for yourself what gender means to you.
Huge congratulations to Teddy G. Goetz for this marvelous read and Sophie Standing for the amazing illustrations! This is a text that I would definitely recommend to anyone and could even see doing well in schools, and I hope it gets the attention it deserves when it is released on October 19.
Thank you to Net Galley and Jessica Kingsley Publishers for providing me with an advanced readers copy
This comic covers a surprisingly wide range of topics. It starts with societal expectations, how sex differs from gender, as well as explores the spectrum of gender identities. The largest portion focuses on different cultures’ expressions of gender (or lack thereof) both today and predating colonialism. I appreciated the vast array of examples in this section, and the dedication to viewing what we know as gender from an anti-imperialistic and anti-white supremacist lens. It was also pleasant to then see the comic delve into the science, discussing the role of hormones in the body and gender in relation to neuroscience, particularly neurodivergence and mental health. The comic’s final message to readers is to question the societal standards with which we so often view gender and explore for yourself what gender means to you.
Huge congratulations to Teddy G. Goetz for this marvelous read and Sophie Standing for the amazing illustrations! This is a text that I would definitely recommend to anyone and could even see doing well in schools, and I hope it gets the attention it deserves when it is released on October 19.
Thank you to Net Galley and Jessica Kingsley Publishers for providing me with an advanced readers copy
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June 17, 2023For such a small book this packs in quite the large amount of information regarding the idea of gender - both cultural and scientific. This serves as an introduction point to so many more topics that can be delved into deeper.
I’d recommend this to people completely unfamiliar with exploring gender and for those who may have more experience with the topic. The Endnotes and internal citations leave you with plenty more to dive into as well.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced reader copy.
I’d recommend this to people completely unfamiliar with exploring gender and for those who may have more experience with the topic. The Endnotes and internal citations leave you with plenty more to dive into as well.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced reader copy.
June 11, 2023
I have to say that this was surprisingly in-depth - given the page count, I expected this to be a guide to gender and sex for beginners but it goes deep into the medical details, describing the role of hormones etc. I very much appreciate the anti-colonialist POV and the stress not to impose binary and white-centric categories to concepts that differ from them.
I didn't like the art because I don't like this particular style but I liked the colour scheme.
I read this book on Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I didn't like the art because I don't like this particular style but I liked the colour scheme.
I read this book on Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 7, 2023
Read this! Read this! Read this! Illuminating and profound. It doesn't matter your age or gender, you will learn something from this wonderfully educational text that discusses gender in all its many forms. Scientific, yet down to earth.
I loved it all, but I was especially interested in learning how other cultures perceive gender. And then the section about how modern gender in the US came to be—surprising and fascinating.
Very well researched and incredibly informative. We need more books like this.
I loved it all, but I was especially interested in learning how other cultures perceive gender. And then the section about how modern gender in the US came to be—surprising and fascinating.
Very well researched and incredibly informative. We need more books like this.
June 8, 2023
thanks to NetGalley for the eARC
⭐️=4 | 😘=2 | 13+
summary: short graphic novel exploring the ins and outs of gender, gender expression, and gender diversity in today’s world.
thoughts: I liked this! it’s the kind of thing one would want to have on hand in a conversation with one’s hypothetical mother who listens to too much Ben Shapiro, because, like, well-documented scientific rebuttals to transphobic people are good.
⭐️=4 | 😘=2 | 13+
summary: short graphic novel exploring the ins and outs of gender, gender expression, and gender diversity in today’s world.
thoughts: I liked this! it’s the kind of thing one would want to have on hand in a conversation with one’s hypothetical mother who listens to too much Ben Shapiro, because, like, well-documented scientific rebuttals to transphobic people are good.
June 10, 2023
I would like to thank Jessica Kingsley Publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Gender is really strange is an ideal book to educate ourselves about gender identity and sex. The different concepts are explained in a clear and attractive way, including several examples across cultures and religions.
I think this book will be very helpful for parents to explain gender identity to children.
Gender is really strange is an ideal book to educate ourselves about gender identity and sex. The different concepts are explained in a clear and attractive way, including several examples across cultures and religions.
I think this book will be very helpful for parents to explain gender identity to children.
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