The T Guide

April 15, 2023
YouTube star Gigi Gorgeous (He Said, She Said, 2019) and drag performer Gottmik, who was the first openly trans man to compete on RuPaul's Drag Race, collaborated to share "all the information we wish we had when we were first starting out." Before they were coauthors, they were best friends, which comes across easily in writing that's formatted as a conversation in two-color text (pink for Gigi Gorgeous and blue for Gottmik). They break the story into three parts ("Coming Out," "Transformation," and "Your New Life") with contributions from the authors' parents, friends, and role models, including Adam Lambert, Jazz Jennings, Paris Hilton, and Sarah McBride. Magnificently fun photos throughout show Gigi Gorgeous and Gottmik in high-fashion looks and cozy poses, in one instance even lounging on cartoon-giant bottles labeled Testosterone and Estrogen. Covering the spiritual and emotional sides of transitioning as well as practical concerns like undergoing surgeries and using public restrooms, the authors embrace vulnerability, their own and readers', and assure that they aren't here to gatekeep. It all adds up to an accessible, welcoming, and beyond-useful guide.

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April 21, 2023

Transgender icons and activists Gorgeous, a YouTube star and actress, and Gottmik, who is a drag performer, actor, and makeup artist, are also friends. In this book, they tell the stories of their transitions and all the joy and difficulties that came with them. They've taken those experiences and combined their shared knowledge into a guide. There is insight to be gained for everyone--transgender readers, parents of trans children, and those wanting to become better allies to the trans community. Several other prominent LGBTQIA+ advocates--Adam Lambert, Candis Cayne, Paris Hilton, Courtney Act, Sasha Colby--and many others contributed to the conversation by sharing their own experiences. The book covers topics such as the gender spectrum, staying true to oneself, dating, and potential medical and nonmedical options to achieve desired features. There are also beautiful full-page photos of the two authors and occasional illustrations to help demonstrate the topics. VERDICT An important addition to any library, this book is an excellent educational guide to topics surrounding the transgender experience. It will be helpful to readers looking for guidance along their own journeys and to those looking to support trans people.--Carleigh Obrochta

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