Alex as Well

Fourteen-year-old Alex has a very complicated life: she was born intersex, was raised as a boy, but self-identifies as a girl which her parents – especially her overbearing mother – do not support. When Alex makes the decision to come out as a girl she moves to a new school for a fresh start and all is going well until the school asks for her birth certificate but it indicates that Alex is a boy and she seeks the help of a lawyer to be legally recognized as female. This intriguing novel deals with the issues of self-identity, gender identity, coming of age, courage, and taking a stand for one’s beliefs. Suitable as a literature circle or independent novel and creative writing activities. Social considerations noted.