Redefining Realness: My Path to Womanhood, Identity, Love & So Much More by Janet Mock is a true story that shares glimpses into Ms. Mock’s fascinating life and teaches the audience much about trans womanhood. Her voice is bold as she tells her struggles along her path to blossoming into womanhood and she doesn’t hold back as she tells of the many setbacks she experiences along the way. Her brave storytelling is inspiring for not only trans women of color but for all who live the human experience.

I make it a point to read books each year that have to do with human rights/feminism, and it turns out that this was the perfect one to start the year off with. Redefining Realness opened my eyes to a young Janet Mock who was dealing with trans rights issues not only as a young woman of color, but as a young woman of color of a low socioeconomic status. The problems she faced were ones that I hadn’t considered a young trans person could run into and they were many and large. Her resourcefulness and resilience in overcoming her trials were applaudable and it stands as a testament to not only her great character, but the great characters of other young trans people who face these situations now on a daily basis.

The writing style was highly accessible. I felt as if I were in my living room talking to a close friend as Ms. Mock told me her life story. There was a certain openness and warmth that drew me into the book that I found very pleasant and made me feel as if I knew the author personally.

There are things in the book that some may find objectionable. There are descriptions of sexual abuse, self-harm, prostitution, drug use, and swearing, among other things. If one finds these things triggering or offensive in any way, it may be advisable to avoid this book for one’s comfort and safety.

I found that reading this book was a joy for me. I learned more about my own womanhood by learning about how Janet Mock discovered hers, and that was special to me. Her courage and boldness in writing about her difficult past were commendable and brave. To me, she truly is the embodiment of courage. I love her spirit and I hope that you will consider reading this truly wonderful book.

Note: I wrote this review using a book I borrowed from the library.