I read this one for a middle grade book for my book challege. It sounded intriguing.
This is the story of George, a little boy who identifies as a girl. In her heart of hearts, she calls herself Melissa. But, like most transgendered children, she has problems. How will she tell her mom? What will her older brother think? Will her best friend, Kelly, accept her?
The crux of the story begins with Charlotte's Web. George/ Melissa can relate to Charlotte and wants to be the spider in the class play. However, of course, her teacher explains that this is a girls part. Geroge just knows that if her mother could only see her on stage, then should would understand that George isn't gay, she is actually a girl.
There are so many gems in this short book. I guess the best message is Be who you really are. It's hard but in the end, being true to that is really all that matters. And of ourse, this lends itself to the absolute Suessism " Those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind". Real love is about accepting people for who they are, regardless of our own expectations and aspirations for them. In the end, Melissa comes out on top. I wish life were always so neat and easy for those struggling to figure out who they truly are.
Not for everyone but definitely a worthwhile read and I am so glad that children who need it, have books like this and characters like Melissa to relate to. 5 out of 5 stars.
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