School-leaver Skye plays guitar in her all-female Chronic Cramps band. Making her name in the punk/indie scene is easier than FTM (female to male) transitioning: from Skye to Finn, from girl to man. Uncovering genetic mysteries about family heritage tear the family apart.
Trans gender identity is more than injections and surgery, it's about acceptance. Going public, Finn sings ftm lyrics on TV. With a little help from bemused mates and family who don't want to lose a daughter, but who love their teenager, Finn is transitioning.
Ages: 14+
Jenny Mournfield
In the relatively short period of time since Ford Street staked its claim on the Australian publishing map with its first title, Sean McMullen's, Before the Storm, the company has consistently produced entertaining, edgy, thought-provoking fiction and non-fiction that explores a kaleidoscope of themes: everything from mental illness to the deepest existentialist questions. f2m is no exception.
Eighteen year old Skye is many things to many people: sister, daughter, granddaughter, friend, band-mate. But to herself Skye is something altogether different; she is he, and his name is Finn.
From the first page Skye is in a quandary: should she tick the M or F box when applying for her driver's licence? She does, after all, plan on transitioning as soon as she can. She has researched, joined internet forums and is saving for the necessary surgery. But as she is learning there are so many unexpected elements to consider, not least of which is how her transition from female to male will affect her friendships and position in her all girl punk band, The Chronic Cramps.
While navigating this personal minefield, Skye finds an ally in Gran, and uncovers the truth of Gran's brother, Uncle Albert, who spent the later years of his life as Alberta. With Gran's understanding and the help of newfound FTM (Female To Male) forum friends, Skye takes her first step on the path that will ultimately lead to the birth of Finn.
While I'm sure there is a lot of co-author, Ryan Kennedy (who transitioned from female to male at age twenty-seven) in Skye, I feel this story would have far more impact if it was indeed his story, rather than a fictionalised version. However, having said this I must add that f2m does exactly what it is meant to do, which is to allow readers into the life of a transgender person, to share his hopes, fears, and very personal life-changing journey. And it's for this very reason that I applaud the publication of this book. Anything we can do to educate young people on the differences of others, whether they be differences of culture, religion or sexual orientation can only aid in a complete understanding of what it truly means to be human.
Teens, particularly girls, will pick up this title for its curiosity factor alone. Edwards' literary skill and Kennedy's heart-felt experiences marry well and the result is an honest story that is both entertaining and informative.
Guest, 14/05/2010
