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54 pages 1 hour read

As Nature Made Him

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2000

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Book Brief

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John Colapinto

As Nature Made Him

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2000
Book Details
Pages

366

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

Canada • 1960s-1990s

Publication Year

2000

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

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

Reviews & Readership

4.3

8,552 ratings

77%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

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.

Who should read this

Who Should Read As Nature Made Him?

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.

4.3

8,552 ratings

77%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Bruce/Brenda/David Reimer

A child raised as a girl after a medical accident resulting in gender reassignment, who later reclaims male identity as David. Central to the case challenging the theory that gender can be socially assigned.

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.

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.

Father of the twins, Bruce and Brian, who supports Janet throughout the medical journey and eventually reveals critical truths to Brenda.

The twin brother of Bruce/Brenda/David, who experiences his own challenges but supports his sibling's transition later in life.

A psychiatrist in Brenda's early adolescence who plays a role in introducing key professionals to help Brenda eventually transition back to David.

A psychiatrist who aids in Brenda's realization of identity and supports the transition to David.

A leading researcher opposing Dr. Money's theories by emphasizing biological factors in gender identity, collaborating with David to challenge previous claims.

A reporter meticulously documenting the complexities of David Reimer's life, striving to provide a balanced viewpoint of the case.

The first psychiatrist assigned to Brenda, initially adherent to Money’s treatment but develops skepticism over time.

A psychiatrist working with Brenda who suggests an eventual truth revealing but exits for maternity leave before seeing it through.

Known for her direct approach, she briefly works with Brenda and immediately criticizes the gender reassignment.

A gynecologist who collaborates with Dr. Money, instrumental in the initial surgical procedures on Bruce.

Brenda’s first school friend who remains loyal and supportive despite their differences.

A junior high friend of Brenda also outcast due to her own physical condition, sharing mutual respect without deep bonding due to differing interests.

Book Details
Pages

366

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

Canada • 1960s-1990s

Publication Year

2000

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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