The Riddle of Gender: Science, Activism, and Transgender Rights

by Deborah Rudacille

Book Overview

When Deborah Rudacille learned that a close friend had decided to transition from female to male, she felt compelled to understand why. Coming at the controversial subject of transsexualism from several angles-historical, sociological, psychological, medical-Rudacille discovered that gender variance is anything but new, that changing one's gender has been met with both acceptance and hostility through the years, and that gender identity, like sexual...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0385721978
• ISBN13: 9780385721974
• Release Date: February 2006
• Publisher: Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group
• Length: 400 Pages
• Weight: 0.72 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 5.3" x 8.1"

Customer Reviews

Meticulous, scholarly, indespensible

This books contains exhaustive research on the medical and societal history of transsexualism, all the theories of its possible causes, everything. Having recently decided to face my own gender issues, I found this book immensely informative and felt a million times less alone. The scientific parts can be a tiny bit dry at times, but the information is priceless and the interviews and firsthand stories are wonderful. Told from the point of view of someone who doesn't have gender identity disorder, the book explains all the aspects of it, even for someone who doesn't know the issue firsthand--this makes it a really excellent resource for people confused by the actions of their transgendered loved ones. I bought copies for both my parents.

Scientifically researched and very well-written book on gender variance

As a transsexual man, this book is an invaluable resource. I had begun writings for inclusion in a website and went looking for additional books on transsexualism. This book met all my needs. It offers a seemingly thorough analysis of gender identity in regards to activism and science. I got the book from the local public library (yay libraries!!); however, I realized after the first few pages that this book had to become part of my personal library. I have already recommended it to many people and would definitely recommend it to those seeking to broaden their understanding of gender and the cultural oppression transgendered people face. I also highly recommend it to those that are transgendered because it is also a great "power to the people" book. My website will be a call to action to all those that accept and celebrate diversity with the intent of changing the current political and social limitations that have roots in ignorance and oppression. This book buoyed my resolve and validated my existence at a time that I was struggling with feeling oppressed. Thank you Deborah!