Melissa

Alex Gino's 'Melissa' (formerly 'George') is a groundbreaking and heartwarming chapter book about a fourth-grade transgender girl named Melissa. The story follows Melissa's internal struggle with her gender identity, as she is perceived by the world as a boy. Her desire to play Charlotte in the school production of 'Charlotte's Web' becomes a catalyst for her to bravely reveal her true self, first to her best friend Kelly, then her brother, and eventually her mother and the wider community. The book sensitively explores themes of self-acceptance, friendship, family understanding, and standing up for who you are, while also addressing bullying and discrimination. It's a powerful story designed to normalize transgender experiences for young readers and foster empathy in cisgender children.

When people look at George, they think they see a boy. But she knows she's not a boy. She knows she's a girl.George thinks she'll have to keep this a secret forever. Then her teacher announces that their class play is going to be Charlotte's Web. George really, really, REALLY wants to play Charlotte. But the teacher says she can't even try out for the part . . . because she's a boy. With the help of her best friend, Kelly, George comes up with a plan. Not just so she can be Charlotte -- but so everyone can know who she is, once and for all.