Synopsis
Archie, a snarky genderqueer artist, is tired of people not understanding gender neutral pronouns. Tristan, a cisgender dude, is looking for an easy way to introduce gender neutral pronouns to his increasingly diverse workplace. The longtime best friends team up in this short and fun comic guide that explains what pronouns are, why they matter, and how to use them. They also include what to do if you make a mistake, and some tips-and-tricks for those who identify outside of the binary to keep themselves safe in this binary-centric world. A quick and easy resource for people who use they/them pronouns, and people who want to learn more!
From: Simon & Schuster
Notes on This Title
This is a graphic guide that provides a basic explanation of pronouns, as well as how to be a better ally to nonbinary and genderqueer people, and some advice on how to come out as nonbinary.
Awards
None.
Reviews
Starred review: “Genderqueer writer and illustrator Bongiovanni and cisgender writer Jimerson, longtime friends, present this educational comic guide to gender-neutral pronouns. Speaking to each other and directly addressing readers, they emphasize the importance of inclusive and respectful language. Bongiovanni brings the perspective of their lived experience, and Jimerson serves as a thoughtful ally and role-plays as someone unfamiliar with gender-neutral pronouns. Together, they offer examples and explanations of pronoun usage and discuss misgendering (using the wrong pronouns, assuming gender, and relying on faulty visual shortcuts based on a gender binary). They also model potential conversations, such as how to ask what pronouns others use. The repeated references to creating inclusive work spaces give this guide more of an adult-oriented focus; still, teens will get a lot out of it. Featuring whimsical, lively illustrations, this clear, well-organized, conversational guide also covers dealing with mistakes. A section called ‘For Folks Identifying with Alternative Pronouns’ offers advice on coming out as nonbinary.” (Source: School Library Journal)
“Archie and Tristan’s easy-to-understand guide is accessible for people who are new to the idea of pronouns outside the binary, while being fun and affirming for people who’ve been living there their whole lives.” (Source: Autostraddle)
“Ultimately, Bongiovanni and Jimerson’s conversation about gender identities makes the subject real. Readers see, and hopefully empathize with, the pain Archie feels as they are repeatedly misgendered. Importantly, the comic points out that what may appear “too dramatic” to cisgender folks is very hard on non-binary people. Misgendering suggests that a person’s gender identity is not valid or that they are performing gender incorrectly. When misgendered, non-binary people may feel anything from annoyance to despair. The GUIDE takes care to validate the full range of responses. Swiftly and kindly, A QUICK AND EASY GUIDE TO THEY/THEM PRONOUNS reminds readers that other people’s identities matter.” (Source: ComicsVerse)
Interviews
Bear World Magazine: “How a comic became the perfect guide to They/Them Pronouns”
CBR: “A Quick & Easy Guide to They/Them Pronouns is Fun, Super-Important”
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