Parrotfish

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Parrotfish

Angela, or Grady, has always wondered why she/he does not fit in. And this beginning says it all. Born Angela, the first female in her family, Angie struggles to find herself, not fitting in anywhere that she should, yearning to be a boy. Recently Angie came out as a lesbian to family and friends, yet this was not exactly who she is either, although she was slightly more comfortable in this label. It is only when Angie, now Grady, comes to realize that she is truly a boy in a girl’s body that Angie can become her true self. In the six months of high school covered by this book, Grady must deal with losing friends, gaining new friends, helping her/his family come to terms with the major changes; all while dealing with the bullying, the friendships, and other issues faced both in high school and in coming out. Whether determining which restroom to use, or how to dress for the school dance, Grady’s experiences bring to light the trials and tribulations anyone questioning their own identity must face.

Wittlinger also addresses bullying, as Grady and others must face, first loves, not fitting in, and dealing with family problems, as well as going from being home-schooled to attending a public high school. Despite all these issues, Grady survives, with the help of new friends, and towards the end the help of an old friend as well. While not all teenagers face such drastic upheaval, the methods and techniques Grady uses to face oppression and potential disaster will serve as a role model. This book makes one think about gender roles, gender identity, and the roles one plays in society – are these one’s true self or the roles one thinks others expect?

Good for high school students; and even for upper middle school who are facing transgender and gender identity issues.

Recommended by Sara Rofofsky Marcus, Librarian, New York

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