Woodworking

A thoughtful and layered exploration of trans identity and personal truth. The structure is quite clever: three points of view told in three distinct narrative styles (first, second, and third person), mirroring how the characters relate to themselves and the world. And while the prose is nothing extraordinary, it captures emotional nuance well, often distilling complex issues and feelings into poignant moments. The story feels somewhat like an introduction to trans experiences, covering a broad range of common topics, tropes, and challenges. Whether that’s a strength or a weakness will depend on the reader. For some, it may feel a bit contrived or lacking in fresh perspective and focused depth, treading ground that's too well-known. Still, the themes are handled with care and, all things considered, tied together effectively. That said, I struggled. Erika’s inner world—understandable in its pain and confusion—often made her come across as extremely self-centred, hypocritical, and unlikeable. And while it makes sense that she’s drawn to Abigail, their relationship remains uncomfortable at best. Abigail, for all her teenage dramatics, is the emotional heart of the story and the only character I truly liked. A smart, observant, and important read that ultimately ended up being a bit of a slog for me.