Homebody
Books | Young Adult Nonfiction / Comics & Graphic Novels / Biography
4
Theo Parish
YALSA Excellence in Nonfiction Award FinalistIn their comics debut, Theo Parish masterfully weaves an intimate and defiantly hopeful memoir about the journey one nonbinary person takes to find a home within themself. Combining traditional comics with organic journal-like interludes, Theo takes us through their experiences with the hundred arbitrary and unspoken gender binary rules of high school, from harrowing haircuts and finally the right haircut to the intersection of gender identity and sexuality—and through tiny everyday moments that all led up to Theo finding the term “nonbinary,” which finally struck a chord. “Have you ever had one of those moments when all of a sudden things become clear…like someone just turned on a light?”A whole spectrum of people will be drawn to Theo’s storytelling, from trans or questioning teens and adults, to folks who devoured Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe or The Fire Never Goes Out by ND Stevenson, to any person looking to dive a little deeper into the way gender can shape identity. Throughout the book, Theo’s crystal-clear voice reminds the reader that it’s okay not to know, it’s okay to change your mind, and it’s okay to take your time finding your way home.“We are all just trying to find a place to call our own. We are all deserving of comfort and safety, a place to call home.”
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Author
Theo Parish
Pages
224
Publisher
HarperCollins
Published Date
2024-04-23
ISBN
0063319608 9780063319608
Community ReviewsSee all
"i love the idea of the body as a home, so this book really rang true for me. there were so many lines in here that i have thought or felt myself, as a queer person."
catherine!!
"A beautiful and heartfelt exploration of a non-binary journey.
I listened to the audiobook version, so I can’t comment on the illustrations, but I loved it so much that I plan to buy the graphic novel. While I don’t usually enjoy background sounds or music in audiobooks, the production in this one was subtle and well-done, enhancing the overall experience.
In Homebody, we follow Theo, a curious kid who asks questions when things don’t make sense, starting where many of us least expect self-discovery—McDonald’s. Theo questions why there are so many rules and expectations placed on girls and how they’re perceived, while boys face far fewer restrictions. As Theo navigates their path to self-discovery, even through moments of discomfort and anxiety, they are supported by a strong and loving network of family, co-workers, friends, and even strangers. Each interaction fosters self-reflection and adds a touching layer to the story.
In a world where I often hear, “I don’t understand what non-binary means,” I feel like everyone should read this book to gain a better understanding of the experience. I highly recommend Homebody for its heartwarming story and for anyone who is questioning their own journey or seeking to educate themselves. It addresses many questions about gender with an easy-going honesty, compassion, and beauty.
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Kate
