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She/He/They/Them: Understanding Gender Identity
She/he/they/them. Why do we use gender pronouns? And why do some people wish to be referred to as "they"? What is gender identity all about? Students will learn to understand these terms and the reasons behind them. They will also learn how to deal with questions they may have about gender identity.
- GenresLGBTGenderNonfiction
64 pages, Paperback
Published February 1, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
May 29, 2021
This is a pretty short book of 64 pages with the main text being even shorter. The six chapters discuss how gender issues have caught the public eye, what is gender identity, the non-binary versus the binary, gender expression, gender roles and norms, and advocacy. It has short section on doing gender advocacy, a small glossary, and some additional resources.
I have only one comment based on the author’s “Gender Lexicon” on page 7. The author leaves out agender.
What is written is actually pretty good. It was just far too short. Because of its length I hesitate giving it 4 stars.
Despite its short length I could recommend the book as a brief look into the gender issues of today. If, however, you want to get a better understanding there are other more informative books.
I have only one comment based on the author’s “Gender Lexicon” on page 7. The author leaves out agender.
What is written is actually pretty good. It was just far too short. Because of its length I hesitate giving it 4 stars.
Despite its short length I could recommend the book as a brief look into the gender issues of today. If, however, you want to get a better understanding there are other more informative books.
May 22, 2022
Not a fan of how it was written. Seemed like author didn't want to give enough research and specifics to back her research.
July 1, 2021
TW: Examples of transgender oppression, examples of transphobia, murder and death statistics of trans folks, suicide.
(This review is coming from a white non-binary person.)
This was a very short and quick read, one I think appropriate for younger readers as well as any older readers very new to the subject. I would happily suggest to kids, especially to parents to use as a jumping off point for discussions.
The author makes a note of transparency that she is a white, middle class, cisgender woman, and so apologises for any mistakes in the text. I'm ALWAYS hesitant when a cisgender person decides to write about the trans experience, but I can say I was actually quite pleased with this book.
Topics it covered where; what is the difference between sex and gender; the transitioning experience; healthcare and oppression trans folk face; and a very, very good (very very short) guide on how to help trans folk. All of these topics were covered quickly, so not as much detail as I personally would like, but enough to not bog down the inexperienced person.
I had some slight critiques of the text. Mostly that, though she mentions it later, a lot of history she focuses on is put as "US history" when she really means post colonial US history, and the author does take note of intersectionality, though it's not focused on as much as it should be.
Sometimes the unneeded addition of "identifies as" is used.
At one point I had a little laugh in the section of the pronouns"They/Them" (which I use). The example was to say "They is speaking". Personally use "They are speaking". I've never met another they/them user who uses "They is...". 😅
Lastly when discussing cisgender privilege one of the examples used is cisgender folks never have "been stared at for your gender identity", I'd change that to 'cisgender MEN have never been...'. I think cis woman and girls are VERY much experienced with this happening. I know what the author meant, I think the phrasing could have been a bit more specific.
Despite my critiques, I really liked the book and ESPECIALLY loved the last page suggesting ways to help and be an ally, and everyday actions allies can do that make a huge difference in trans lives.
(This review is coming from a white non-binary person.)
This was a very short and quick read, one I think appropriate for younger readers as well as any older readers very new to the subject. I would happily suggest to kids, especially to parents to use as a jumping off point for discussions.
The author makes a note of transparency that she is a white, middle class, cisgender woman, and so apologises for any mistakes in the text. I'm ALWAYS hesitant when a cisgender person decides to write about the trans experience, but I can say I was actually quite pleased with this book.
Topics it covered where; what is the difference between sex and gender; the transitioning experience; healthcare and oppression trans folk face; and a very, very good (very very short) guide on how to help trans folk. All of these topics were covered quickly, so not as much detail as I personally would like, but enough to not bog down the inexperienced person.
I had some slight critiques of the text. Mostly that, though she mentions it later, a lot of history she focuses on is put as "US history" when she really means post colonial US history, and the author does take note of intersectionality, though it's not focused on as much as it should be.
Sometimes the unneeded addition of "identifies as" is used.
At one point I had a little laugh in the section of the pronouns"They/Them" (which I use). The example was to say "They is speaking". Personally use "They are speaking". I've never met another they/them user who uses "They is...". 😅
Lastly when discussing cisgender privilege one of the examples used is cisgender folks never have "been stared at for your gender identity", I'd change that to 'cisgender MEN have never been...'. I think cis woman and girls are VERY much experienced with this happening. I know what the author meant, I think the phrasing could have been a bit more specific.
Despite my critiques, I really liked the book and ESPECIALLY loved the last page suggesting ways to help and be an ally, and everyday actions allies can do that make a huge difference in trans lives.
May 9, 2025
I mean it’s not the worst book. It’s a bit behind or maybe a lot behind ever since Trump came into his second term with high vengeance. Though if you want to start somewhere as a cisgender ally, this is a quick “tutorial” for expediting your trans and nonbinary understanding. However, please don’t let this be your stop on the train of understanding. This book is better served in the waiting room somewhere or a pamphlet for your nosey and homophobic family members on your coffee table. It’s a light read, so if you’re questioning your gender and needing a jump off point this is one. But again there are many other books that give better depth when you’re ready to dive in deep.
February 14, 2021
Required reading for everyone.
November 27, 2021
Short, simple and informative.
March 21, 2024
Very informative and insightful. It was awesome to read about gender identity from a scientific view.
October 3, 2024
Short but good read. Has a bit of everything. History, definitions, child development and how to respond to people coming out.
December 28, 2025
Amazing jumping off point for learning about the gender spectrum. 👍🏾
December 31, 2025
A very basic overview, suitable for children or as an introduction to the subject.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews