Weekend Pick for August 19, 2022

Weekend Pick for August 19, 2022

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Katie Sluiter

None of the Above by I. W. Gregorio

Every spring I survey my eighth graders on what types of books they would like to see more of in my classroom library and curriculum. The past couple years students have made their wishes for more LGBTQ+ stories known. This summer I have worked to add some new titles to my classroom library, but I thought I would share one that is routinely checked out each year: None of the Above by I.W. Gregorio.

While I have many books featuring characters who identify as part of the LGBTQ community, this is the only one that has a character who is intersex. The main character, Kristin, is one of the most popular girls in school; she is a star on the track team, has a full scholarship to college, is dating one of the most popular guys in school, and is just voted homecoming queen. After a visit to the doctor, Kristin finds out that while she outwardly looks like a girl, she has male chromosomes and “parts”.
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I. W. Gregorio

While Kristin is confused and figuring out how to deal with her body and her new knowledge, her “diagnosis” is leaked and becomes the topic of all the gossip at her school. None of The Above creates a window into a little talked about portion of the LGBTQ community while dispelling myths and stereotypes.

I wish there were more books that tackled this topic for teens who are struggling with their own identities.