A review by pucksandpaperbacks
Dotson: My Journey Growing Up Transgender by Grayson Lee White

funny informative medium-paced
I was sent a physical copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts are my own. 

Twelve-year-old Grayson Lee White chronicles his life from age four to present day giving trans kids a voice and letting them know they're not alone. Grayson's story is joyous and hopeful though it does come with the challenges of being misunderstood by adults in his life and dealing with things most trans kids have to go through (and shouldn't have to) such as bathroom access, coming out, and making friends.

I highly recommend this book for teachers to teach their young students about trans kids and how to respect them as well as for parents of trans kids. But Dotson is a great read for anyone looking to read more about the trans experience from the perspective of a trans boy. I appreciated how detailed this book goes into puberty blockers by sharing the process, the specific name of the medication, AND showing the importance of trans kids going on puberty blockers and how they saved Grayson's life.

This is a light-hearted book but it still shows the everyday struggle of being a trans kid and the challenges they face. Dotson brought a smile to my face as I read about Grayson's journey to social transition and the trans joy he experienced. I'm so glad we have books like Dotson depicting a happy experience for trans kids because this should be the normal.

The back of the book provides resources for trans kids including books, hotlines & organizations, and LGBTQIA+ friendly places to look into. I appreciated that they weren't too generic since some of the organizations and places were new to me!

Note: Grayson's deadname is mentioned on page. But it is important to recognize that not *every* trans person hides their name and feels uncomfortable by it. It is up to trans people only to share their deadname, if they so choose.