Melissa
by Alex Gino
This middle-grade novel follows a transgender girl named Melissa who knows she's a girl despite everyone calling her by her birth name George. When her class performs a play of Charlotte's Web, Melissa desperately wants to play Charlotte, but faces resistance from her teacher and classmates who see her as a boy. The story explores themes of gender identity, self-acceptance, and finding the courage to live authentically, while also addressing bullying and the importance of supportive friendships and family relationships.
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This information is provided for transparency purposes only. Final reading decisions rest with parents and caregivers.