Parrotfish by Ellen Wittlinger:
A Rare and Meaningful LGBTQ+ Story for Young Readers
In a world where representation matters more than ever, Ellen Wittlinger’s Parrotfish stands out as a deeply personal and affirming novel for LGBTQ+ youth. This beautifully written story feels like a chapter plucked from a memoir, offering an intimate look into the life of a transgender teen. For students navigating similar journeys—or for those simply looking to build empathy—this is an invaluable read.
A Slice of Life That Feels Real
Parrotfish introduces us to Grady, a teenager embracing his identity as a transgender boy. Wittlinger’s portrayal of Grady’s experiences feels authentic and relatable, from navigating family dynamics to facing societal judgment. The book captures both the struggles and triumphs of transitioning with honesty and heart, making it a rare gem for young readers who want to see themselves or their peers reflected in literature.
Why Representation Matters
For LGBTQ+ students, finding relatable stories on classroom bookshelves can be life-changing. Parrotfish offers a chance for questioning or transitioning youth to feel seen and validated. Its heartfelt narrative encourages understanding and acceptance, making it a crucial resource for fostering inclusive school environments.
Balancing Accessibility with Awareness
While Parrotfish is an excellent book to leave on a classroom shelf for students to discover, its themes may be sensitive in schools where LGBTQ+ acceptance is still a challenge. For this reason, I recommend keeping it on a “teacher shelf” for now—ready to offer to the right student who might benefit from its affirming message. Sharing this book thoughtfully ensures that it reaches those who need it most while respecting your school’s cultural landscape.
A Must-Read for LGBTQ+ Allies
Parrotfish isn’t just for LGBTQ+ students; it’s a powerful tool for building empathy among all readers. Through Grady’s story, students gain insight into the challenges faced by their peers and learn the importance of kindness, respect, and acceptance.
Why It’s a 5-Star Read
From its realistic characters to its thoughtful exploration of identity, Parrotfish is a must-read for middle and high school students. It’s a poignant reminder of the importance of inclusivity and the power of storytelling to bridge divides.
For readers interested in similar themes, here are some recommended novels that i’ve been told to add to my TBR pile! Check back soon for more blog posts on the following books:
I Am J
Cris Beam
Cris Beam’s novel follows J, a transgender teen boy, as he navigates the challenges of coming out and finding acceptance in his community.
Luna
Julie Anne Peters
Julie Anne Peters tells the story of Liam, who lives as Luna at night, and his journey toward living authentically as a transgender girl.
If I Was Your Girl
Meredith Russo
Meredith Russo’s novel centers on Amanda, a transgender teen starting fresh at a new school, exploring themes of identity, love, and acceptance.
Symptoms of Being Human
Jeff Garvin
Jeff Garvin introduces Riley, a gender-fluid teenager, navigating the complexities of gender identity and societal expectations.
George
Jeff Garvin
Alex Gino’s story about Melissa, a transgender girl who everyone sees as George, and her determination to be herself.