JPN Prose & Pride – ‘American Teenager: How Trans Kids Are Surviving Hate and Finding Joy in a Turbulent Era’ by Nico Lang

For our first Prose & Pride book club discussion, we will be hosting author Nico Lang and their book ‘American Teenager: How Trans Kids Are Surviving Hate and Finding Joy in a Turbulent Era’. Nico will do a reading, followed by a Q&A session, and ending with a book signing.

The book follows eight transgender and nonbinary teenagers and their families over the course of a year. These families live in diverse environments across the United States—including conservative “red” states like Florida, Texas, and Mississippi, where anti-LGBTQ+ legislation has been most aggressive.

Lang consciously avoids “both-sidesing” the issue of trans rights. Instead, the book provides a deeply personal look at what it’s like to navigate high school, dating, and family life while the government debates your right to exist.

A significant portion of the book explores how these teens find “chosen” families and the vital importance of supportive parents and healthcare providers.

While the book doesn’t shy away from the trauma of discriminatory laws, it emphasizes that these kids are more than their identities; they are gamers, athletes, theater kids, and students with typical teenage aspirations.

Lang also highlights how race, class, and geography impact the safety and resources available to trans youth. For example, a white trans teen in a wealthy suburb often has a vastly different experience than a Black trans teen in the rural South.

This event is free and all are welcome to attend.