George

 

Gino, A. (2015). George.  New York, NY: Scholastic Press.

 

George is a fourth grade student who has been sure since childhood that he was meant to be a girl.  He has kept his secret for years in hopes of not disappointing his family.  The opportunity comes where the yearly play is announced of Charlotte’s Web and George is convinced that he wants to be Charlotte.  George feels that this is the time to tell his family his secret.  George enlists the help of his friend, Kelly, and together they set out to secure the part for George. 

 

Kelly strongly supports his friend as he now takes on the identity known as “Melissa.”  In this book, the author, Alex Gino, allows readers to get to know a character who is struggling with his identity and is dealing with his physical development.  Melissa now fears those around her and has to deal with other people’s perceptions of her.  This book is best suited for young adults.  Books with similar topics include Carry on by Rainbow Rowell and More happy than not by Adam Silvera.