Publishers Weekly
04/04/2022
This thoughtful exploration by Anderson (Problematic) theorizes what it means to be nonbinary within the broader queer community. Referencing philosophers, pop culture, and personal stories, the author investigates the “linguistic and social problems we encounter when we try to lump all parts of a broad, diverse community under the same umbrella,” working to define nonbinary on its own terms and contending that “we cannot communicate if we do not agree to speak the same language.” Using the works of Ludwig Wittgenstein and Simone de Beauvoir, Anderson argues in academic prose that existing “rules about how we use language around gender” have restricted queer expression. They share how they grew up without the vocabulary to articulate gender beyond cis norms and are “just now realizing who I am,” asserting that it’s time to “claim our language for our own.” They offer advice to help cisgender readers “learn new patterns of thinking in order to be better” allies, suggesting readers respect gender labels and reflect on what it means to be cis. Anderson’s arguments are well reasoned, and the author’s frank account of their coming-out adds pathos to the discussions of queer theory. The result is an illuminating analysis of the contemporary functions and assumptions of gender. (July)
From the Publisher
"This thoughtful exploration by Anderson (Problematic) theorizes what it means to be nonbinary within the broader queer community.... Anderson's arguments are well reasoned, and the author's frank account of their coming-out adds pathos to the discussions of queer theory. The result is an illuminating analysis of the contemporary functions and assumptions of gender." —Publishers Weekly
"Allies new and old will discover this book fills the gaps in the current conversations about trans people and communities." —Library Journal
"Thank goodness Dianna E. Anderson has written this essential exploration into non-binary identity, history and theory. Not only is it informative, but it's personal, accessible and compassionate." —Ms. Magazine
"As the parent of a trans person and as someone who cares about humanity, I hope this book is in every library in the country." ——Seattle Book Review
"In Transit is a must-read for all those in pursuit of a sharper, more authentic understanding of the non-binary experience. Above all, for those who feel displaced by dichotomies, this is a powerful, necessary reclamation of self and community." —Eugene Lee Yang, writer, director, actor, and digital producer
"In Transit provides a multifaceted look at what it means to be non-binary. Grounded in history and theory, yet always accessible, it is an enlightening and enjoyable deep dive into this often overlooked and misunderstood identity." —Julia Serano, author of Whipping Girl and Excluded
"In Transit takes you through the history and theory behind the language that we use now to describe who we are, all while walking with Dianna Anderson in their journey to understand what that means for them. You'll find yourself captivated and educated regardless of where you are in the gender mosaic." —Gavin Grimm, trans activist and victor in the landmark lawsuit Grimm v. Gloucester County School Board
"How can you explain who you are—to yourself and to others—when language itself is in transition? In Transit paints a picture of the present moment and doesn't shy away from the complexity of a discussion that is held both within and about gender-expansive communities. I know this book will encourage life-giving exploration." —Austen Hartke, author of Transforming: The Bible and the Lives of Transgender Christians
"In Transit is a great introductory text for anyone who doesn't understand non-binary identity. A combination of personal history, relayed conversations, and research, it is an accessible, friendly, smart text for anyone seeking to learn." —Helen Boyd, author of My Husband Betty
Library Journal
06/01/2022
Kudos to Anderson (Damaged Goods) for placing a glossary at the front of their book, as it creates cohesive vocabulary for the remainder of the work. After establishing terms, the book explores non-binary identity through the theory and historical context of what the book refers to as the transsexual movement. This lens allows Anderson to add contemporary observations and comparisons to the piece, as well as personal narrative where appropriate. They discuss trans people in the Bible, trans people in the Roman Empire, and trans Indigenous people; use The Matrix to successfully explain Baudrillard; and reflect on their own sense of physical self. Anderson's struggle with faith and finding community as a formal evangelical will resonate, as will their analysis of the obsession to define what a woman is. Anderson's message about being recognized as non-binary and finding joy are as potent as the research. VERDICT Allies new and old will discover this book fills the gaps in the current conversations about trans people and communities.—Tina Panik
