A searchable database of books recommended by the CCBC.
(More information on CCBC book recommendations)
Homebody
A quiet graphic memoir illuminates the author’s ongoing gender identity exploration, and their efforts to feel at home in their body, with care and openness. Written in a direct, conversational tone, Theo begins by introducing themself and their experience of being transgender and nonbinary. Choosing to follow “the scenic route” on their gender “journey,” Theo takes their time, enjoys the process, and remains open to change. The main narrative begins in their childhood, describing a loving family life that allowed them to be “free and content to just be.” Outside the home, though, gender-related assumptions and expectations chafed. It wasn’t until college, in community with other art students, that Theo felt free to make physical changes like a haircut and new wardrobe. Despite knowing they weren’t a girl, “boy” didn’t feel right either; it wasn’t until they learned of nonbinary identities that things began to click into place. Shedding their birth name and choosing the name “Theo” seemed to break an invisible boundary, leading to greater contentment and closer relationships. While the narrative ends in Theo’s young adulthood, they acknowledge that the journey is ongoing, and while they are “grateful” for the body they have, they still “dream of … the day [they] will call this house … home.” A soft purple palette, uncluttered illustration style, and concise text make this explicitly affirming memoir an accessible, inviting read. ©2025 Cooperative Children’s Book Center
CCBC Age Recommendation: Ages 13-18
Age Range:
Grades 6-8 (Ages 11-13)
Grades 9-12 (Age 14 and older)
Format:
Graphic Novel
Subjects:
Autobiography/Memoir
Gender Identity
LGBTQ+ Persons
Nonbinary People
Transgender People
Diversity subject:
LGBTQ Non-Fiction
Publishers:
HarperCollins, HarperAlley
Publish Year: 2024
Pages: 211
ISBN: 9780063319585
CCBC Location: Non-Fiction, 741.5 Parish