Ollie in Between Quotes

“Did you know that some people think that just putting books with queer characters into schools will make kids queer? If being a boy or a girl is so built into us at birth — if it’s not something we learn from everyone around us — then what are a few books going to do to change that? I don’t think you can make anyone into anything unless the pieces were there to start with.”
― Jess Callans, Ollie in Between

“If you never see yourself in the world, how are you supposed to think you can exist? Maybe most people see themselves everywhere. In every book they’re made to tear apart in English class, in every hit TV series or movie. Lucky them.”
― Jess Callans, Ollie in Between

“I didn't go to lunch at all on Wednesday or Thursday. I went to the library and stared at the books under the rainbow banner in the back and wished my whole life didn't feel exactly like that. With all this stuff hidden in one little spot, surrounded by the things everyone else wants.”
― Jess Callans, Ollie in Between

“Quit hockey, Ollie. Grow up, Ollie. Abandon your interests, Ollie. Start painting your face and wearing a bra and caring about things you don't care about, Ollie. People will like you better if you aren't you at all.

Just be yourself, my butt.”
― Jess Callans, Ollie in Between

“Gender is probably just another thing I just don't get. Like what faces to make and when, or whether someone is really interested when I tell them about mantis shrimp and their smashers.”
― Jess Callans, Ollie in Between

“Did you know that some people think that just putting books with queer characters into schools will make kids queer? If being a boy or a girl is so built into us at birth -- if it's not something we learn from everyone around us -- then what are a few books going to do to change that? I don't think you can make anyone into anything unless”
― Jess Callans, Ollie in Between