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320
Biography • Nonfiction
Maine • 2000s
2015
Adult
14-18 years
Becoming Nicole by Amy Ellis Nutt tells the story of Nicole Maines, a transgender girl who transitions from boyhood and fights for acceptance in her family, school, and broader community, culminating in a significant legal battle over her right to use the girls' restroom at school, while also exploring her activism and scientific findings about gender identity. The narrative includes themes of harassment, mental health struggles, and discrimination.
Inspirational
Emotional
Heartwarming
Informative
16,209 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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Becoming Nicole by Amy Ellis Nutt has garnered praise for its compelling narrative and sensitive handling of transgender issues. Reviewers commend its thorough research, emotional depth, and storytelling. Some critique it for occasionally feeling overly detailed. Overall, it's recognized as an informative and empathetic portrayal of one family's journey.
Readers who would enjoy Becoming Nicole by Amy Ellis Nutt are often interested in powerful, true stories about identity, resilience, and family. Comparable to fans of She's Not There by Jennifer Finney Boylan, this book appeals to those drawn to narratives on transgender issues and personal transformation within a supportive community.
16,209 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Jonas
Wyatt/Nicole's identical twin brother who is reserved and introspective, with a strong bond to Nicole, and finds his own voice through theater.
Kelly
Nicole's mother who is fiercely supportive and proactive in championing Nicole's identity and well-being, navigating numerous challenges to ensure her child's happiness.
Wayne
Nicole's father who initially struggles to accept Nicole's transgender identity but eventually becomes supportive, playing a pivotal role in defending her rights.
Paul Melanson
A conservative Orono resident who becomes adversarial to Nicole's bathroom use in school, driven by his personal beliefs and is involved in legal actions aligning with his views.
Jacob
Paul Melanson's grandson who bullies Nicole at school under his grandfather's influence, often using slurs and causing distress for Nicole.
Dr. Virginia Holmes
Nicole's first therapist who provides support and guidance, helping Nicole navigate her early understanding of her gender identity.
Dr. Norman Spack
A pioneering pediatric endocrinologist who aids Nicole in her transition, offering medical support and guidance through her gender identity journey.
Lisa Erhardt
The school counselor at Nicole's elementary school who supports Nicole's needs and advocates for her in the educational setting.
Bob Lucy
The principal at Nicole's school who is resistant to accommodating Nicole's needs, often creating a challenging environment for her and her family.
The Christian Civic League
A right-wing organization that amplifies Paul Melanson's opposition to Nicole's bathroom use, promoting a controversial agenda.
320
Biography • Nonfiction
Maine • 2000s
2015
Adult
14-18 years
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