The Gender Quest Workbook

November 1, 2015

As the media continues to feed on Bruce Jenner's transition to Caitlyn, transgenderism is entering household conversations like never before. In this timely arrival, coauthors Testa, Deborah Coolhart, and Jayme Peta offer a workbook that supports the exploration of gender identity issues. Whether the young person is questioning their gender, doesn't feel confident navigating life as he or she is, or desires to make a change, the book supplies an empathetic space for investigating these concerns, beginning with a discussion on the difference between gender and sex, then moving on to such ideas as "gender swirl," "transfeminine," and "genderqueer." Following these brief introductions are reflections on dress, behavior, and sexuality. VERDICT From inconspicuous activities such as people watching to more task-oriented ideas for encouraging young people to broach their concerns to family members, this volume serves as a valuable resource. While this isn't the best acquisition for libraries (it is truly a workbook), librarians would do well to be informed of its availability.

Copyright 2015 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

December 1, 2015

Gr 9 Up-A guide designed for teens who are interested in exploring gender. The authors present readers with steps to begin a "gender quest," giving the impression that developing one's identity and feeling comfortable with oneself is as easy as following a set of instructions. Through eight chapters, the writers cover gender identity, gender expression, family, school and work, friends and peers, dating and sex, multiple identities, and challenges. The definition and discussion of several terms are helpful for those unfamiliar with the subject as well as for those who are looking for ways to understand and accept their identities and expressions. Activities and exercises are provided in each chapter to help readers incorporate their discovery, exploration, and expression and reflect on the subjects discussed. The writing and layout are textbooklike, and the lack of illustrations might be a limitation for visual learners. The tone of the book is generally light but sometimes seems overly upbeat, considering the serious subject matter. VERDICT Recommended for collections seeking a "Gender 101" workbook for young adults.-Sujei Lugo, Boston Public Library, MA

Copyright 2015 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from October 15, 2015
An open-ended workbook offers young people questioning their gender identity tools for thinking, feeling, and strategizing. Introductory chapters lay out such basic concepts as gender identity, gender expression, and differences between sex and gender. Later chapters discuss various areas of life where gender comes into play, from family to school and work to dating and sex. Information is presented in brief, straightforward segments, but exercises for readers form the bulk of each chapter. The authors use an expansive variety of approaches, from observational exercises to drawing prompts to asking readers to circle words that describe their feelings. What makes this book so powerful is the balance the authors strike between asking open-ended questions and offering readers tools from which to build answers. A segment on socioeconomic status asks a series of practical questions starting with "are there any parts of your gender exploration that will cost money?" A table for planning "experiments," such as wearing a men's shirt, prompts readers with questions about location, materials, and safety considerations. One chapter in particular focuses on religious, ethnic, and other identities that intersect with gender, and both the inclusive nature of the questions and the broad range of example scenarios throughout make the book well-suited to a diverse readership. An invaluable resource for all young people on a gender quest. (supplemental Web content) (Nonfiction. 12-18)

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