Detransition, Baby

by Torrey Peters
Detransition, Baby cover
Good Books rating 4.75
Contemporary Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 686
  • Added: 2025-09-19
  • Updated: 2025-09-19
  • ISBN: 9780593133392
  • Publisher: One World
  • Published: 2021-01-12
  • Reviews: 3

Detransition, Baby is a groundbreaking debut novel that fearlessly tackles the emotional and messy corners of womanhood, gender, and relationships. The story revolves around Reese, a transgender woman who loses her relationship with her girlfriend Amy after Amy detransitions to become Ames. Ames, now struggling with his decision, finds a glimmer of hope when his lover Katrina reveals she is pregnant with his child. The novel explores the unconventional idea of the three of them raising the baby together, delving into themes of identity, love, and the complexities of modern family structures. Torrey Peters' novel has been widely acclaimed, winning the PEN/Hemingway Award and being named one of the best books of the year by numerous publications. It challenges platitudes and good intentions, offering a thrillingly original and deeply moving exploration of gender and relationships. The book's provocative narrative and witty prose make it a standout in contemporary literature.

Reviews
Lucy Danser · Lucy Danser · 2022-06-23
moving 4.75

The characters are richly developed, especially Reese, and the novel is both touching and exhausting in its exploration of complex relationships.

Lucy Danser found the novel fascinating and deeply touching, with characters that have rich, insular lives. She was particularly struck by the character Reese, who is portrayed with great depth. The novel is described as exhausting in the best way, as it delves into the complexities of relationships and identity. Lucy appreciates the author's ability to create such compelling characters and the emotional journey they undergo. She believes the book is a powerful exploration of human experiences that will stay with readers long after they finish it.

Quick quotes

    I found it fascinating, touching, exhausting and complicated.

    Peters has written characters with such rich insular lives - especially Reese - ...

    The novel is a powerful exploration of human experiences that will stay with readers long after they finish it.

Aminas Bookshelf · 2021-11-18
exceptional 5.00

The novel is well-written and observed, with a five-star rating highlighting its exceptional quality and engaging narrative.

The reviewer praises the novel for its exceptional writing and keen observations, earning it a five-star rating. They note that the plot, while complex, is engaging and well-executed. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the characters and the thought-provoking themes explored in the book. They believe it is a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary fiction that challenges societal norms and explores the intricacies of identity and relationships.

Quick quotes

    This is a well-written, well-observed, five-star novel.

    The book isn't just about the plot; it's about the characters and their journeys.

    It's a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary fiction that challenges societal norms.

The Guardian · 2021-01-07
insightful 4.50

The novel cleverly distinguishes between 'being trans' and 'doing trans', offering a nuanced exploration of identity and parenthood. The characters are complex and their struggles are portrayed with depth and sensitivity.

The reviewer appreciates the novel's careful distinction between 'being trans' and 'doing trans', which adds layers to the story. They highlight the complexity of the characters, particularly their struggles and desires, which are portrayed with a mix of humor and heart. The novel is seen as a significant contribution to contemporary literature on gender and motherhood. The reviewer also notes the book's ability to balance comedic elements with serious themes, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. They believe the book will leave a lasting impact on readers, encouraging them to reflect on societal norms and personal identities.

Quick quotes

    This irresistible novel about wanting a child makes a careful distinction between 'being trans' and 'doing trans'.

    The characters are complex and their struggles are portrayed with depth and sensitivity.

    The novel is a significant contribution to contemporary literature on gender and motherhood.

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