About the Book

"The Out Side: Trans & Nonbinary Comics includes 29 creators' tales of self-love and affirmation that detail their experiences with gender and identity. Originally published as a successful kickstrter campaign, this expanded edition includes comics by Dana Simpson (bestselling author of Phoebe and Her Unicorn), Aidyn Huynh (Snailords), Sage Coffey, Kyla Aiko, Coco Ouwerkerk, and many others. As editor The Kao writes in the book's introduction, 'My hope is that this collection will inspire anyone who may be struggling with their own identity and educate those who seek greater understanding'"--

Book Synopsis

In this vibrant and affirming comics anthology, 29 trans & nonbinary comic artists share their personal journeys of self-discovery and acceptance.

Featuring the work of Sage Coffey, Kyla Aiko, and Coco Ouwerkerk, The Out Side: Trans & Nonbinary Comics includes 29 creators' tales of self-love and affirmation and detailing their experiences with gender and identity. Originally published as a successful Kickstarter campaign, this expanded edition includes comics by Dana Simpson (bestselling author of Phoebe and Her Unicorn), Aidyn Huynh (Snailords), Wren Chavers, and more.

Equal parts encouraging, comforting, and life-affirming, The Out Side is a love letter to the trans and nonbinary community, designed to inspire anyone who may be struggling with their own identity and to help educate those who seek greater understanding. As artist Julia Kaye writes in the book's introduction: "I'm so glad this book exists. It's a loud proclamation of our existence in the face of a culture that has for too long ignored our experiences."

Review Quotes

"As each story is told by and about the creator of that story, each one feels individualized and true. While themes of self-acceptance flow through the stories, each creator has their own way of interpreting their journey. From Wey's struggle to ignore negativity in "Not There Yet" to Kyla Aiko finding the words to be "Happy," each story feels honest and real.

Each creator's individual style is on display as they represent themselves and their truth. There is no one way to be trans or nonbinary, and that is represented throughout the various stories."
(2023 VLA Graphic Novel Diversity Award Judges)

"The Out Side is such a beautiful anthology that shares trans and nonbinary stories from all walks of life. All the authors approach their stories in very different ways; when it comes down to it, they all feel so interconnected and warm." (American Booksellers Association)

"If you need something fun and joyful to look forward to this fall, look no further! This anthology includes work from 29 trans and nonbinary comic artists who share intimate, personal stories about their lives, gender journeys, and identities. It's a beautiful celebration of the messy complexity of trans and nonbinary lives and includes a diverse array of art and comics styles." (Laura Sackton, Book Riot)

"This varied art is a riot of style and color that brings home the individuality of the stories and storytellers... Recommended for anyone needing life-affirming stories or anyone wanting to learn more about trans and nonbinary identities and experiences." (Sarah Rice, Booklist)

About the Author

Contributing authors include:

Kaz Fantone
Coco Ouwerkerk
Julie Fiveash
Cyrus
Min Christensen
Ashi
DaToonie
Vixtopher
Wren Chavers
Matteo Montero-Murillo
Mel Valentine Vargas
Kyla Aiko
Nasr Bin Safwan
Dana Simpson
Lae Louie Schäfer
Veronica Jane
Dashi
Aidyn Huynh
Al Acevedo
Wey Song
Sam
Liam Coballes
Lake Fama
Lucas James
Sage Coffey
Zhen
Maddie Tacobus
Jam Aden
Tara Madison Avery & Mike Sullivan
Julia Kaye