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Becoming Nicole

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2015

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Book Brief

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Amy Ellis Nutt

Becoming Nicole

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2015
Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

Maine • 2000s

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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Super Short Summary

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

Reviews & Readership

4.4

16,209 ratings

85%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

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.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Becoming Nicole?

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.

4.4

16,209 ratings

85%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Wyatt/Nicole

A transgender child who, from a young age, is aware of her female identity despite being born in a boy's body, and later becomes an activist for transgender rights after being bullied at school.

Wyatt/Nicole's identical twin brother who is reserved and introspective, with a strong bond to Nicole, and finds his own voice through theater.

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.

Nicole's father who initially struggles to accept Nicole's transgender identity but eventually becomes supportive, playing a pivotal role in defending her rights.

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.

Paul Melanson's grandson who bullies Nicole at school under his grandfather's influence, often using slurs and causing distress for Nicole.

Nicole's first therapist who provides support and guidance, helping Nicole navigate her early understanding of her gender identity.

A pioneering pediatric endocrinologist who aids Nicole in her transition, offering medical support and guidance through her gender identity journey.

The school counselor at Nicole's elementary school who supports Nicole's needs and advocates for her in the educational setting.

The principal at Nicole's school who is resistant to accommodating Nicole's needs, often creating a challenging environment for her and her family.

A right-wing organization that amplifies Paul Melanson's opposition to Nicole's bathroom use, promoting a controversial agenda.

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

Maine • 2000s

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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