54 pages • 1 hour read
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
366
Biography • Nonfiction
Canada • 1960s-1990s
2000
Adult
18+ years
As Nature Made Him by John Colapinto recounts the story of David Reimer, who was raised as a girl named Brenda following a botched circumcision, under the guidance of sexologist Dr. John Money. David transitions back to a male identity during his teenage years after Dr. Milton Diamond exposes the flaws in Money’s theory of psychosexual neutrality at birth, challenging prevailing medical practices and beliefs about gender identity. The book discusses sensitive topics such as medical trauma, gender identity, and mental health struggles.
Informative
Mysterious
Dark
Unnerving
Emotional
8,552 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
John Colapinto's As Nature Made Him is lauded for its gripping and empathetic exploration of identity and medical ethics. It excels in storytelling and extensive research, yet some criticize its heavy reliance on dramatic elements over scientific analysis. Nonetheless, it offers a crucial perspective on the complexities of gender identity and medical interventions.
As Nature Made Him by John Colapinto appeals to readers interested in psychology, gender studies, and medical ethics. Comparable to Middle Sex by Jeffrey Eugenides and The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat by Oliver Sacks, it attracts those who enjoy compelling narratives about human identity and the complexities of nature versus nurture.
8,552 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Dr. John Money
A notable sex researcher known for his theory that gender can be nurtured through environment, who is largely responsible for managing Brenda/David's gender reassignment.
Janet Reimer
Mother of Bruce and Brian, who is deeply involved in pursuing gender reassignment treatment for Bruce after his accident, and later confronts the emotional aftermath of these decisions.
Ron Reimer
Father of the twins, Bruce and Brian, who supports Janet throughout the medical journey and eventually reveals critical truths to Brenda.
Brian Reimer
The twin brother of Bruce/Brenda/David, who experiences his own challenges but supports his sibling's transition later in life.
Dr. Keith Sigmundson
A psychiatrist in Brenda's early adolescence who plays a role in introducing key professionals to help Brenda eventually transition back to David.
Dr. Mary McKenty
A psychiatrist who aids in Brenda's realization of identity and supports the transition to David.
Dr. Milton Diamond
A leading researcher opposing Dr. Money's theories by emphasizing biological factors in gender identity, collaborating with David to challenge previous claims.
John Colapinto
A reporter meticulously documenting the complexities of David Reimer's life, striving to provide a balanced viewpoint of the case.
Dr. Doreen Moggey
The first psychiatrist assigned to Brenda, initially adherent to Money’s treatment but develops skepticism over time.
Dr. Janice Ingimundson
A psychiatrist working with Brenda who suggests an eventual truth revealing but exits for maternity leave before seeing it through.
Dr. Sheila Cantor
Known for her direct approach, she briefly works with Brenda and immediately criticizes the gender reassignment.
Dr. Howard Jones
A gynecologist who collaborates with Dr. Money, instrumental in the initial surgical procedures on Bruce.
Heather LeGarry
Brenda’s first school friend who remains loyal and supportive despite their differences.
Esther Haselhauer
A junior high friend of Brenda also outcast due to her own physical condition, sharing mutual respect without deep bonding due to differing interests.
366
Biography • Nonfiction
Canada • 1960s-1990s
2000
Adult
18+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.