When puberty hits, Alex begins to realize he's been misgendered as a girl his whole life.
First, he stops wearing dresses and paints his room a dark color. Then he cuts his hair short. But people still aren't seeing the real him. His mom has always called him her "little star," but he doesn't feel like shining. Instead, he feels like hiding away.
Alex knows he should tell people who he really is, but he can't seem to get the words out. Will his parents be mad? Will his friends still like him? He decides to write a letter to his mom telling her the truth. Slowly but surely, he starts telling others—first the rest of his family, then his class. The big explosion he worried about never comes, just love and support. He's still his mom's little star, and he can finally be himself and shine.
“[An] affirming, picture-book-length graphic novel. Muted neon flourishes give the detailed illustrations of this heartwarming story their warm, nostalgic flair.”
“This picture book for elementary and middle-grade readers will show young transgender, genderqueer, and nonbinary children they can be themselves despite fear of being rejected by the people they love.”
“Will highly appeal to middle grade audiences and readers transitioning from picture books and early readers to graphic novels. Inspired by Jameson’s experience with her own child, this book is essential for those who may be trying to explain a relative/friend’s gender transition. A great addition to any library.”