"I think educators and teens everywhere would benefit from reading this book." ~Jocelyn

Seventeen-year-old Arin Andrews shares all the hilarious, painful, and poignant details of undergoing gender reassignment as a high school student in this winning memoir.

We’ve all felt uncomfortable in our own skin at some point, and we’ve all been told that “it’s just a part of growing up.” But for Arin Andrews, it wasn’t a phase that would pass. He had been born in the body of a girl and there seemed to be no relief in sight…

In this revolutionary memoir, Arin details the journey that led him to make the life-transforming decision to undergo gender reassignment as a high school junior. In his captivatingly witty, honest voice, Arin reveals the challenges he faced as a girl, the humiliation and anger he felt after getting kicked out of his private school, and all the changes—both mental and physical—he experienced once his transition began. Arin also writes about the thrill of meeting and dating a young transgender woman named Katie Hill…and the heartache that followed after they broke up.

Some Assembly Required is a true coming-of-age story about knocking down obstacles and embracing family, friendship, and first love. But more than that, it is a reminder that self-acceptance does not come ready-made with a manual and spare parts. Rather, some assembly is always required.

 Jocelyn says:
"Some Assembly Required is a trans guy's story of growing up in a girl's body, knowing the whole time it didn't match his gender identification. Arin was born Emerald and his story shows the reader just how difficult life can be when you can't meet cultural norms.
 
I can imagine this book would be world changing for someone in the same situation looking for support and validation. He certainly had my sympathy when he described his conflicting feelings in so many situations over the years. I give his mother credit for supporting him when she finally truly understands his feelings, especially when you consider Andrews was brought up the heart of conservative Oklahoma.
 
This book really opened my eyes - I didn't realize I had so much to learn.
It was well written and very honest. I think educators and teens everywhere would benefit from reading this book."