Who Would Like This Book:
This memoir is a fresh, vulnerable exploration of masculinity from a perspective that's rarely published: that of a trans man experiencing the social codes of manhood as an adult. Thomas Page McBee's writing is sharp, honest, and never preaches, making his journey through boxing and self-acceptance both captivating and relatable, even for those who don't care about sports. If you're interested in gender, identity, or social dynamics - or just love a thoughtful personal story - you'll find a lot to chew on here. This is especially recommended for readers curious about the nuances of masculinity or those who want to support authentic trans voices.
Who May Not Like This Book:
Some readers found the analysis of masculinity not as deep or new as they hoped, especially if they've read extensively on gender before. A few wanted more critique or even more prescriptive insights. If you’re looking for a detailed deep-dive into the theory or politics of gender, this memoir takes a more personal and experiential approach than an academic one. Also, if you dislike memoir or introspective writing, this might not land for you.
About:
'Amateur: A True Story About What Makes a Man' by Thomas Page McBee explores masculinity through the lens of the author's journey to become the first trans man to fight at Madison Square Garden for a charity event. McBee delves into the complexities of gender conditioning and self-reflection, inviting readers to examine their own perceptions of masculinity and what it means to be a man. Through his experiences in boxing and transitioning, McBee challenges societal norms and sheds light on the struggles and triumphs of exploring masculinity in the modern world.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include themes of violence, discussions around toxic masculinity, and experiences of gender identity struggles.
From The Publisher:
*Shortlisted for the Baillie Gifford Prize for Nonfiction
*Shortlisted for the Lambda Literary Award
*Shortlisted for the Wellcome Book Prize
One of The Times UK 's Best Memoirs of 2018, BuzzFeed's Best Nonfiction of 2018, Autostraddle's Best LGBT Books of 2018, and 52 Insight's Favorite Nonfiction Books of 2018
A "no-holds-barred examination of masculinity" ( BuzzFeed ) and violence from award-winning author Thomas Page McBee.
In this "refreshing and radical" ( The Guardian ) narrative, Thomas McBee, a trans man, sets out to uncover what makes a man-and what being a "good" man even means-through his experience training for and fighting in a charity boxing match at Madison Square Garden. A self-described "amateur" at masculinity, McBee embarks on a wide-ranging exploration of gender in society, examining sexism, toxic masculinity, and privilege. As he questions the limitations of gender roles and the roots of masculine aggression, he finds intimacy, hope, and even love in the experience of boxing and in his role as a man in the world. Despite personal history and cultural expectations, " Amateur is a reminder that the individual can still come forward and fight" ( The A.V. Club ).
"Sharp and precise, open and honest," ( Women's Review of Books ), McBee's writing asks questions "relevant to all people, trans or not" (New York Newsday ). Through interviews with experts in neuroscience, sociology, and critical race theory, he constructs a deft and thoughtful examination of the role of men in contemporary society . Amateur is a graceful and uncompromising look at gender by a fearless, fiercely honest writer.
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