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Girl, Transcending: Becoming the woman I was born to be
Real-world life lessons about acknowledging and celebrating all the things that make you unique, from TikTok sensation, model and LGBTQI+ advocate, AJ Clementine.
AJ Clementine always knew she was a girl. The problem was, she'd been born in a magical shell that looked, on the outside, like a perfect little boy. In her teens, this conflict between her outer and inner selves exploded, igniting years of anxiety and panic attacks. Now fast becoming one of the world's most visible transgender spokespeople, AJ's journey to accept and live as her true self has captivated hundreds of thousands of people on TikTok, Youtube and Instagram, where she has shared her gender transition, what it was like to grow up Wasian in a blended family, and her transformation into a model, influencer and trans advocate.
In Girl, Transcending , AJ weaves her experiences, advice, reflections and snippets of inspiration into a powerful tool to help us understand and celebrate what makes each of us unique, not only those in the LGBTQI+ community but anyone finding their way in the world. Honest, positive and empowering, AJ shines a light on her path to self-love and acceptance - the hardest bits, the parts we rarely see - in the hopes of a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
AJ Clementine always knew she was a girl. The problem was, she'd been born in a magical shell that looked, on the outside, like a perfect little boy. In her teens, this conflict between her outer and inner selves exploded, igniting years of anxiety and panic attacks. Now fast becoming one of the world's most visible transgender spokespeople, AJ's journey to accept and live as her true self has captivated hundreds of thousands of people on TikTok, Youtube and Instagram, where she has shared her gender transition, what it was like to grow up Wasian in a blended family, and her transformation into a model, influencer and trans advocate.
In Girl, Transcending , AJ weaves her experiences, advice, reflections and snippets of inspiration into a powerful tool to help us understand and celebrate what makes each of us unique, not only those in the LGBTQI+ community but anyone finding their way in the world. Honest, positive and empowering, AJ shines a light on her path to self-love and acceptance - the hardest bits, the parts we rarely see - in the hopes of a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
240 pages, Paperback
Published February 8, 2022
13 people are currently reading
294 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
March 4, 2022
3 1/2 stars.
It was a nice light read and I enjoyed learning about AJ's life although sometimes its somewhat non-linear storytelling did mean I got a bit lost. Some of her stories and insights were quite interesting to read, and being able to see her growth over the years was good. It's not the sort of book I would usually read, but I did binge it in one go so that says something at least.
It was a nice light read and I enjoyed learning about AJ's life although sometimes its somewhat non-linear storytelling did mean I got a bit lost. Some of her stories and insights were quite interesting to read, and being able to see her growth over the years was good. It's not the sort of book I would usually read, but I did binge it in one go so that says something at least.
November 27, 2021
A great addition to add to my knowledge building on identity and world issues that are becoming more prevalent and well known in marginalised groups.
I really enjoyed learning more about AJ and her experience with understanding herself and becoming the person she always knew she was. The issues she faced I hope in future won't be as damning to future people that don't feel like they visually represent how they feel internally and that in some way, this book can be used in guiding some issues a person may face.
I really enjoyed learning more about AJ and her experience with understanding herself and becoming the person she always knew she was. The issues she faced I hope in future won't be as damning to future people that don't feel like they visually represent how they feel internally and that in some way, this book can be used in guiding some issues a person may face.
December 21, 2021
A powerful testament of growing up trans; bright, deeply personal, and emotive, 'Girl, Transcending' is an empowering gift to those struggling to find themselves. There is hope laced in this book's pages.
August 4, 2022
Interesting and informative in some respects but I really disliked the emphasis on appearance and sexual appeal to others. I feel this promotes looks over personality and being a good human.
February 7, 2022
This book gives great insight into what it’s like to be transgender. My understanding of the community has increased and I’ve got a lot more knowledge about what gender dysphoria can be like, as well as the struggles of transitioning.
I really like how triggers and helplines were included in the book for those who need them.
Stars ~ 4
I really like how triggers and helplines were included in the book for those who need them.
Stars ~ 4
February 11, 2022
Love AJ's content & I hope this book helps people :)
October 23, 2021
Thank you Allen & Unwin and AJ for sending us a copy to read and review.
To be born one gender and identify as another is something many children realise at a young age.
If the environment is right a child can be supported and nurtured both emotionally and medically while the transition occurs.
But sadly often the world and society is cruel.
AJ Clementine has not only written her story, but offers a breath of wisdom and helpful facts in a read that will encourage, inspire and help many beginning such journeys.
This book will also be educational and provide to the wider audience a thought provoking insight.
Like an Instagram profile coming to life this is a multi dimensional emotive read and while it illuminates the flesh and soul, suffering and confusion it is backed up with the joy and candescence once the new identity’s forged.
Born into an era where technology is at the finger tips and in sphere where social media platforms are the cornerstones of daily ritual AJ acknowledges the positive role they play in letting her followers see her for what she is.
The book and her Instagram account is adorned with colour, happy snaps and above all a message of its ok to be you.
Reading is not only entertaining but a conduit for learning and absorbing information that may not come across your radar.
This to me was a valuable learning and understanding tool and I know having this out there will help and encourage so many.
A well presented and written anecdote.
To be born one gender and identify as another is something many children realise at a young age.
If the environment is right a child can be supported and nurtured both emotionally and medically while the transition occurs.
But sadly often the world and society is cruel.
AJ Clementine has not only written her story, but offers a breath of wisdom and helpful facts in a read that will encourage, inspire and help many beginning such journeys.
This book will also be educational and provide to the wider audience a thought provoking insight.
Like an Instagram profile coming to life this is a multi dimensional emotive read and while it illuminates the flesh and soul, suffering and confusion it is backed up with the joy and candescence once the new identity’s forged.
Born into an era where technology is at the finger tips and in sphere where social media platforms are the cornerstones of daily ritual AJ acknowledges the positive role they play in letting her followers see her for what she is.
The book and her Instagram account is adorned with colour, happy snaps and above all a message of its ok to be you.
Reading is not only entertaining but a conduit for learning and absorbing information that may not come across your radar.
This to me was a valuable learning and understanding tool and I know having this out there will help and encourage so many.
A well presented and written anecdote.
June 9, 2022
I enjoyed reading this so much I finished in two days. I was not expecting this to be so easy and fast to read and I found AJ’s story very interesting and weirdly also relatable - which is odd to me only because I’m a cis-woman and I couldn’t relate to any of her struggles with gender. But in so many ways we are very similar young ladies in this world and I had a good time with this book. The pictures were absolutely beautiful and the book was arranged in a fun way. I wasn’t the biggest fan of some of the text editing and the pink pages with white text were kind of intense but those were some of my only complaints. AJ’s writing flows nicely and this was exactly what I needed to read right now: something very chill and not in time order. I learned a lot and I’m grateful for AJ for telling us about her journey.
January 9, 2022
I've been following AJ on TikTok for just over a year now and was excited to hear about the release of her book. I will admit, being a fan of hers, I might have some bias in this review. But this was a personal, thought-out and well-written glimpse into AJ's life. She carefully weaves personal experiences with education and tips on how to be a better ally, or a better person. The entire theme of the book is hopeful and optimistic, her voice really shines from the first page to the last. I appreciate her honesty in recounting some of the more painful memories - especially the story about losing a childhood friendship, which I'm sure a lot of readers will resonate with. I also commend her for including relevant trigger warnings before certain chapters. It reads like a friend telling you their life story, comforting and warm. All in all, a book that I think will leave a lasting impression, as a cisgender woman I feel more educated having read this. Thank you AJ, for sharing your story.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for kindly providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. #GirlTranscending #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for kindly providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. #GirlTranscending #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
November 4, 2021
transcend: (verb)
To go or be above or beyond (a limit, something with limits, ect.); surpass or exceed.
AJ always knew she was a girl born into the wrong body. In her teens she stopped fighting herself and embraced her true magic. This was no easy road and was full of anxiety and panic attacks. We follow AJ’s journey to finding her true self, though her gender transition and finally genuinely being happy in her own skin.
You are not your labels! I am a tiktok fan and you must be living under a rock if you havnt come across one of AJ’s videos. She is an advocate all things LGBTQIA’s+ and provides a safe platform for all trans people, sharing her story and proving hope for the next generation. This was such an eye opening book and I’m thankful to have been able to read it, thank you for sharing your story!
To go or be above or beyond (a limit, something with limits, ect.); surpass or exceed.
AJ always knew she was a girl born into the wrong body. In her teens she stopped fighting herself and embraced her true magic. This was no easy road and was full of anxiety and panic attacks. We follow AJ’s journey to finding her true self, though her gender transition and finally genuinely being happy in her own skin.
You are not your labels! I am a tiktok fan and you must be living under a rock if you havnt come across one of AJ’s videos. She is an advocate all things LGBTQIA’s+ and provides a safe platform for all trans people, sharing her story and proving hope for the next generation. This was such an eye opening book and I’m thankful to have been able to read it, thank you for sharing your story!
January 25, 2022
This is a memoir about the life of young Australian TikTok star AJ Clementine. Being a TikTok and Instagram creator, AJ Clementine is known for supporting and advocating for the LGBTQI+ community, her sense of humor and her princess fashion content. It's simply fantastic to follow her on these platforms. AJ is passionate about sharing her own transgender experiences and assisting the next generation in being confident and empowered in their journey. This book captures her life growing up as a mixed race and trans youth, combined with self-images and with people she adores.
The design of this book is perfect for readers who love colorful, eye-appealing visual designs. The narrative is comprehensible and reassuring, yet the struggles Clementine has experienced throughout her life are not overlooked. This is a fantastic book for teens, whether they want to feel seen, loved and understood, or just want to learn and connect with others :)
The design of this book is perfect for readers who love colorful, eye-appealing visual designs. The narrative is comprehensible and reassuring, yet the struggles Clementine has experienced throughout her life are not overlooked. This is a fantastic book for teens, whether they want to feel seen, loved and understood, or just want to learn and connect with others :)
December 5, 2021
This very personal, compassionate, and revealing story is AJ’s life. She shares her journey to becoming the woman she was born to be.
The book is written in an easy-to-read format. It is informative for young people transitioning, wondering what is going on in their mind and body. Essential reading for family and friends looking for insights.
I was touched to share what would ordinarily be private thoughts, processes, and life events. AJ generously shares her life for the benefit of all trans, their family, friends and people searching for insights.
Recommended for YA
The book is written in an easy-to-read format. It is informative for young people transitioning, wondering what is going on in their mind and body. Essential reading for family and friends looking for insights.
I was touched to share what would ordinarily be private thoughts, processes, and life events. AJ generously shares her life for the benefit of all trans, their family, friends and people searching for insights.
Recommended for YA
February 17, 2022
This caught my eye at the library. While I'm not familiar with the author and have only the faintest of ideas of what constitutes a "TikTok sensation" (let's face it: I'm about two decades too old for that stuff), I'm always interested in LGBTQ+ memoirs and the like and found this an enjoyable read despite it being clearly aimed at a far younger target audience. (What do you mean, "back then"? That was, like, yesterday! I feel very ancient now.)
January 21, 2022
I definitely recommend this book for those who are wanting to explore the transgender experience. It’s my first time reading an autobiography - I loved how the author AJ was so personal and loving to the readers.
This gives me sooo much hope for young transgender kids growing up, it is so powerful to have a resource like this!
This gives me sooo much hope for young transgender kids growing up, it is so powerful to have a resource like this!
January 24, 2022
Many thanks to the publisher, Murdoch Books, for the ARC received via NetGalley.
This was suggested to me under the Self-help category, whereas I felt it was more of a memoir, especially the initial chapters about AJ's childhood ("Once Upon A Time"). However, the later chapters about dating, relationships and dealing with life's curveballs had more to offer in terms of self-help/advice (even to a cis-woman a generation older than AJ i.e. me!).
This memoir vs self-help book is understandable and AJ was really careful to emphasise that there is no "one-size-fits-all" trans experience. Reading AJ's experience was a delight as she has such an uplifting point-of-view and her default to seeing things in a positive light is infectious. But, as AJ says herself, she hasn't sugar-coated things. She's very real and matter-of-fact about what she's been through and the difficulties trans people encounter globally. There's plenty here to chew on for those who wish to be allies for trans and gender-diverse people.
I loved the glossy-mag aesthetic for the book (which I read on my phone on the NetGalley app - understandably not available on Kindle, which would kill the vibe, IMO!) and it seems very on-brand. I hadn't heard of AJ prior to seeing this book on NetGalley and now I just so excited for her future success in her career and happiness in her relationships.
Publication date: 8 February 2022
This was suggested to me under the Self-help category, whereas I felt it was more of a memoir, especially the initial chapters about AJ's childhood ("Once Upon A Time"). However, the later chapters about dating, relationships and dealing with life's curveballs had more to offer in terms of self-help/advice (even to a cis-woman a generation older than AJ i.e. me!).
This memoir vs self-help book is understandable and AJ was really careful to emphasise that there is no "one-size-fits-all" trans experience. Reading AJ's experience was a delight as she has such an uplifting point-of-view and her default to seeing things in a positive light is infectious. But, as AJ says herself, she hasn't sugar-coated things. She's very real and matter-of-fact about what she's been through and the difficulties trans people encounter globally. There's plenty here to chew on for those who wish to be allies for trans and gender-diverse people.
I loved the glossy-mag aesthetic for the book (which I read on my phone on the NetGalley app - understandably not available on Kindle, which would kill the vibe, IMO!) and it seems very on-brand. I hadn't heard of AJ prior to seeing this book on NetGalley and now I just so excited for her future success in her career and happiness in her relationships.
Publication date: 8 February 2022
February 6, 2022
This book is about AJ Clementine and her life experiences being a trans women. This is a very interesting and important book as you get an insight into what life can be like for trans people. every tran person’s experience is different which is why it’s important to read/heart about lots of different peoples experiences. AJ Clementine is one of my favourite TikTokers and so I was super excited to read this book. It was really a journey some things I read were really happy things about her life and some were really sad and telling the harsh reality of being trans & also other things in her life. I really did enjoy reading this and learning about her life she is someone i really do admire & even if you aren’t a fan of her or don’t know who she is I highly recommend it as I stated before it’s important to hear trans peoples stories. It took me a few months to read this as this is the first book I’ve read since 2019 I had been struggling a lot with trying to read the past few years & I’m glad that this was the book that started my reading journey again.
January 3, 2022
As a trans man living in australia, so much of what aj wrote really spoke to me, her story mirrored mine in so many ways. This book is easily palatable to cis people, but I think many trans people, especially closeted ones and ones early on in their transition, will get something out of it. The author emphasizes that her experince is not the only one, which I appreciate, as the trans experince is often boiled down to one narrative. The writing is not the most amazing prose ever, but considering its a book written by a person who is primarily a influencer not an author, it's well done.
My one major gripe is that there is little to no recognition of non binary people, it is very focused on binary transiton.
My one major gripe is that there is little to no recognition of non binary people, it is very focused on binary transiton.
March 11, 2022
This was a beautifully told biography which doubled as a self help/ educational book. AJ describes her journey through life as a trans woman in a way that is incredibly honest and open, and allows readers to gain a sense of understanding around the struggles faced by members of the LGBTQIA+ community, with a particular focus on the issues facing those who are trans. I loved every moment I spent reading this book and found the resources, suggestions and personal touches both helpful and well researched. This book would be perfect for anyone wanting more information around what it means to be trans, anyone questioning their own gender or orientation, as well as for anyone struggling or going through a challenging time. Girl Transcending was incredibly positive, educational and supportive and I will recommend it to everyone!
March 12, 2022
Girl, trans-cending is a visually stunning book filled with inspiring quotes, beautiful photos and colourful pages and lettering. More than this, it is an in depth memoir of AJs life and experiences growing up and discovering her authentic self. AJ does a wonderful job in explaining some of the feelings she felt, her friendships, family, dating and experiences along the way learning about and also finally being able to complete her gender confirmation.
I learnt so much from this book, I am always trying to learn and understand more from other perspectives and how I can be more inclusive. Books like this pave the way for others to feel more supported in their own journey as an information source but also as a personal development tool for all people wanting to be accepting and inclusive.
I learnt so much from this book, I am always trying to learn and understand more from other perspectives and how I can be more inclusive. Books like this pave the way for others to feel more supported in their own journey as an information source but also as a personal development tool for all people wanting to be accepting and inclusive.
March 27, 2022
“The world is a rainbow, and there are no limits to who someone can be, who they can love or where they can go”
.
📚This was a beautiful book! The author AJ Clementine takes us on her adventure growing up as a Trans Women. It was a heartbreaking read at points, and it was very personal, compassionate and revealing story about her life!
📚This was a visually stunning book, full of inspirational quotes, beautiful photos and colourful pages. AJ does a wonderful job explaining what she felt, what she went through, her family, her friendships and her experiences throughout her life so far.
📚I really enjoyed learning about AJ and her experiences. This is a great book for young people transitioning, and an essential read for friends and family
📚Overall this was a beautiful book
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📚This was a beautiful book! The author AJ Clementine takes us on her adventure growing up as a Trans Women. It was a heartbreaking read at points, and it was very personal, compassionate and revealing story about her life!
📚This was a visually stunning book, full of inspirational quotes, beautiful photos and colourful pages. AJ does a wonderful job explaining what she felt, what she went through, her family, her friendships and her experiences throughout her life so far.
📚I really enjoyed learning about AJ and her experiences. This is a great book for young people transitioning, and an essential read for friends and family
📚Overall this was a beautiful book
November 4, 2021
Such an important and inspiring book. I've been cheering AJ Clementine on as she has gained her many much-deserved successes over the past few years and I still found myself learning so much about her experiences growing up as a trans woman. Even as a cis white woman, I found myself relating to so much of her life and her journey of finding and accepting herself and I wish I had been able to read this as a teen, so I can only imagine how valuable a resource and comfort this book will be to our young LGBTQ+ community. Not to mention the formatting is so whimsical and fun and on-brand for AJ, bringing me straight back to my Dolly magazine youth!
January 1, 2023
I picked up the book from a shelf randomly without knowing the writer at all. Initially I thought I was going through someone's Instagram profile and was about the drop it back, but decided to be more open minded and give it a try. At the end I actually enjoy it a bit. Even thought I wished this is not how the books of future would be but also thought maybe it has its readers. I like how considering she is and tries to create something she didn't have as a kid. I would give a 3 normally as i think it needs more work on the story telling or the depth in personas or relationships, but I decided it deserves 4 as it helps us to have a view on life of a trans kid.
April 1, 2024
I received this book in a mystery box and decided to pick it up on a whim for the Trans Rights Readathon. I have nothing bad to say about this book. It’s raw, and hopeful and stunning to look at. I encourage anyone to pick it up.
I wasn’t previously someone who followed AJ as a creator, she wasn’t someone that I knew much about at all, but that didn’t hinder my enjoyment of this.
If you’re looking to learn more about the trans community, trans joy or something to pass onto a young trans person in your life - this is the perfect read.
Read for the Trans Rights Readathon 2024
I wasn’t previously someone who followed AJ as a creator, she wasn’t someone that I knew much about at all, but that didn’t hinder my enjoyment of this.
If you’re looking to learn more about the trans community, trans joy or something to pass onto a young trans person in your life - this is the perfect read.
Read for the Trans Rights Readathon 2024
February 24, 2022
Great Insight into an amazing personal story
I admittedly first found AJ through social media and decided to read her fascinating story after seeing her and Bambi's interactions online. She turned what could have been a soul crushing realization at what was a fairly young point in her life, and shows the diamond a person can become by accepting their true form. Thanks for taking us along on the ride!
I admittedly first found AJ through social media and decided to read her fascinating story after seeing her and Bambi's interactions online. She turned what could have been a soul crushing realization at what was a fairly young point in her life, and shows the diamond a person can become by accepting their true form. Thanks for taking us along on the ride!
June 30, 2022
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me this eARC to review.
I follow AJ on tiktok so when I found this book, I was so excited to read it. This book is full of Aj's personality and truly tells an interesting story. This is both a self-help book and a memoir and it does feature some hard hitting subjects like self-harm but Aj somehow manages to keep it uplifted in a way that keeps you reading.
I follow AJ on tiktok so when I found this book, I was so excited to read it. This book is full of Aj's personality and truly tells an interesting story. This is both a self-help book and a memoir and it does feature some hard hitting subjects like self-harm but Aj somehow manages to keep it uplifted in a way that keeps you reading.
August 5, 2022
3.5 rounded up. I don't think I'm the target demographic, I never caught onto Tik Tok and have no interest in models. My teen patrons do though, so this is for them.
I liked a lot of the positivity in here, as well as the messages of being yourself, taking care of mental health, and the importance of having at least a moderate support structure within your family. I can see a lot of teens in my library potentially benefitting from reading this.
I liked a lot of the positivity in here, as well as the messages of being yourself, taking care of mental health, and the importance of having at least a moderate support structure within your family. I can see a lot of teens in my library potentially benefitting from reading this.
July 26, 2022
This book gives a great insight into the challenges faced by transgender people in our society, it shows that while the world is slowly becoming more accepting, we still have a long way to go.
A great read for anyone wanting to expand their knowledge of transgender people and their experiences, both positive and negative.
A great read for anyone wanting to expand their knowledge of transgender people and their experiences, both positive and negative.
March 25, 2023
This was a great book about AJ's experience of her early life, navigating friendships, school and work as a young queer kid, growing through both the trans experience and being biracial, and then further into her transition. I really enjoyed reading this and wish a bright and beautiful future for AJ.
I read this as my third book in the Trans Rights Readathon.
I read this as my third book in the Trans Rights Readathon.
October 16, 2023
new comfort read! as a trans teenager, AJ's story really resonated with me and i dont think ive ever related to a book more. more often than not, i dont like non-fiction books, especially written by social media influencers but this book is just too good! as soon as i finished it i immediantly wanted to re-read 😭❤️
February 21, 2022
Loved this. Would make a great book for younger people starting their transition, and also great for everyone to read AJs journey and learn more about transgender issues. Beautiful book written by a beautiful woman. Thank you for sharing your story AJ.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews