The Art of Being Normal

Reviewed by: Kara Reiman - Walker Memorial Library, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: October 24, 2016

Review

This is a book about two transgender teens at different points in their transitions. David was born a male but has always felt like a girl. He keeps the secret from everyone except for his two best friends. Leo was born a female but is currently living as a boy and taking hormones. Leo has just started at David's school, and everyone assumes he is an average boy. David is immediately drawn to him, though he doesn't know why. Leo is guarded and private, but David forces his way into Leo's life. David helps Leo come to terms with his past and Leo helps David move forward with his future as Kate. While this book is clearly about the transgender experience, it's also a book about the overall teen experience. Any reader will be able to relate to the feeling of not fitting in, familial issues, and the struggle to find human connection. Highly recommended for all teen collections.

Overall Book Score: excellent