Me and My Dysphoria Monster - by Laura Kate Dale (Hardcover)

About the Book

A beautifully illustrated picture book for young children about gender dysphoria, explaining what it is and how to deal with it. It contains a monster-themed short story and an accompanying guide for parents with terminology, the author's experiences, and further information.

Book Synopsis

LONGLISTED FOR THE DIVERSE BOOK AWARDS 2023
SECOND PLACE WINNER IN THE FAN VOTED READERS' CHOICE AWARDS 2023

'An empowering read' SABAH CHOUDREY
'My new favourite children's book!' FOX FISHER

Nisha's monster follows her everywhere. It used to be small, but recently her monster has begun to grow. And as her monster gets bigger and bigger, Nisha feels more and more unlike herself.

When people refer to her as a boy, or when she tries to hide her true gender identity, Nisha's dysphoria monster grows larger and larger. Until, one day, Nisha meets Jack - a trans man - who shows Nisha how she can shrink her dysphoria monster back down to size.

This touching story is the perfect book for discussing gender dysphoria with children, explaining what it is and how they and their families can deal with it. It also includes an accompanying guide for parents with further information about gender dysphoria, terminology, and first-hand examples of the author's own experiences.

Review Quotes

What an amazing book! Me and My Dysphoria Monster beautifully explores the topic of dysphoria through the lens of a child and the story is accompanied by lush illustrations that draw in the reader. The book also features an "adult guide" to provide deeper context and more information that will support grown-ups in conversations with younger readers. A perfect book for a read-along by caregivers, educators, and anyone who wants to support the youth in their lives!--Christy Whittlesey, Educator and Author of The Beginner's Guide to Being a Trans Ally and It's OK to Say They: Tips for Educator Allies of Transgender and Nonbinary Students

As a psychologist who specializes in working with queer young people and their families, I know how difficult it can be to explain gender dysphoria to people young and old. This book does a lovely job of teaching children and their families about what its like to have your identity invalidated daily, and how powerful it is to affirm someone's identity.--5 star NetGalley reviewer "NetGalley"

This book will speak to and delight trans children of various experience. A charming book for trans kids and those seeking to build understanding.--Kirkus

A truly youth centred story and an empowering read for trans and gender-diverse children who may be struggling with what their feelings around gender mean. Laura Kate Dale creatively symbolises the difficult mess that is dysphoria as something that can be tamed, overcome and ultimately teach us something about ourselves.--Sabah Choudrey, trans youth worker and author of Supporting Trans People of Colour

This adorable story perfectly illustrates what it's like to be a trans child. Even my dysphoria monster approves!

Often kid's books rely on outdated stereotypes to explain trans issues. This beautifully illustrated, age appropriate trans themed book is a breath of fresh air. This story will tickle the imaginations of all children while helping them to understand what it's like to grow up as trans. My new favourite children's book!

--Fox Fisher, author of the Trans Survival Workbook

About the Author

Laura Kate Dale is a queer trans woman and author, who uses She / Her pronouns. Laura lives near London, UK, with her cat Smudge, and her wife Jane. When Laura isn't writing she loves to play roller derby, and play video games with her friends.