65 pages • 2 hours read
Redefining realness: My path to womanhood, identity, love, & so much more
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Book Brief
288
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Various Locations • 1980s-2010s
2014
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Redefining Realness by Janet Mock is a 2014 memoir chronicling Mock's journey from a misunderstood and unhappy child in a multicultural, economically disadvantaged family to a fiercely independent and self-motivated young adult navigating her identity as a trans woman. Growing up in the 1990s, Mock begins her transition during high school and later travels to Thailand for sex reassignment surgery at eighteen. After moving to New York, she finds academic and professional success but initially keeps her past a secret. The memoir explores Mock's internal and external struggles, including her family dynamics and societal challenges, ultimately highlighting her advocacy and personal growth. The book includes sensitive topics such as violence, sexual abuse, drug abuse, and suicide attempts.
Inspirational
Emotional
Contemplative
Informative
Hopeful
Reviews & Readership
18,186 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Redefining Realness by Janet Mock is highly praised for its candid and powerful narrative, shedding light on the transgender experience. Mock's storytelling is both poignant and uplifting, though some critics argue it occasionally lacks broader intersectional perspectives. Overall, it's a compelling, essential read that fosters empathy and understanding.
Who Should Read Redefining Realness?
Readers who appreciate Redefining Realness by Janet Mock are individuals interested in transgender issues, race, and identity. Fans of Gender Outlaw by Kate Bornstein and Becoming by Michelle Obama will find this memoir insightful, as it combines personal narrative with social critique, similar to those works.
18,186 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Elizabeth Mock
Elizabeth Mock
Janet's mother, who faces numerous personal challenges, often caught up in difficult relationships, impacting Janet's perception of womanhood and family stability.
Charlie Mock
Charlie Mock
Janet's charming yet troubled father, who provides some nurturing moments but struggles with personal demons, affecting his ability to be a consistent parent.
Chad Mock
Chad Mock
Janet's younger brother, who embodies traditional masculinity and faces his own challenges in understanding Janet's identity and experiences.
Wendi
Wendi
Janet's vibrant best friend in Hawaii, who is unapologetically herself and encourages Janet to embrace her identity, offering steadfast support through their friendship.
Aaron
Aaron
Janet's partner, whose emotional connection and understanding help her find intimacy and trust, leading to broader self-acceptance.
Derek
Derek
A significant negative influence in Janet's childhood, whose actions impart long-lasting effects on her views of intimacy and self-worth.
288
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Various Locations • 1980s-2010s
2014
Adult
18+ years
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