None of the Above

Gr 9 Up--Kristin Lattimer embodies the all-American teenage girl. She's sporty, well-liked, cool but humble enough to be shocked when elected Homecoming Queen, with two loyal best friends and a loving boyfriend. Even in the wake of her mom's death from cervical cancer, Kristin's future is looking pretty bright. Until her first time having sex with Sam goes painfully awry, leading to a doctor's appointment that reveals she is intersex. Suddenly, Kristin's life is thrown wildly off-kilter as she struggles with her condition and its impact on her self-esteem, academic life, and most important relationships. The novel is engaging and well paced, with smart young characters. However, their witty banter and sage insights don't always seem to capture a youthful voice--the novel;s pedagogical intent threatens to overwhelm the natural rhythm of speech, making these 17 and 18 year olds sound like medical mouthpieces from time to time. Gregorio's helpful author's note explains that numerous AIS perspectives and sources were consulted in the writing process; it is evident that research was done to give this fictional account realism and nuance. Links and resources about being intersex are provided for further reading. While the text occasionally reads like a fictionalized medical record, this book serves as a useful introduction to the discussion around intersexuality, particularly from a youth viewpoint.--Ashleigh Williams, School Library Journal

A painful first sexual experience and a visit to the gynecologist confirm high-school senior Kristin's fears that she is different from other girls. Although she appears to be female on the outside, she is actually intersex. In this provocative and enlightening first novel, physician Gregorio creates a heart-wrenching story of self-discovery inspired by one of her patients. Overwhelmed by embarrassment, Kristen (who continues to identify as female) confides in only one person outside her family, but word gets out, and she soon becomes the target of cruel taunts from many students, including her enraged boyfriend. Once a confident homecoming queen and track star, Kristin no longer knows who she is or what the future will bring. It takes a courage and support from a therapist and an intersex college student for Kristen to accept that the perception of others does not define her identity. Kristin's harrowing quest to come to terms with the insensitivity of strangers and acquaintances will strike a familiar chord with any reader who has felt estranged. Ages 14-up. Agent: Jessica Regel, Foundry Literary + Media. (Apr.)

"None of the Above is a powerful story of discovering one's true identity. This book will open hearts and change minds." — Stephen Chbosky, bestselling author of The Perks of Being a Wallflower

"I couldn't put this book down—it opened my mind in ways that few books have done before." — Jacqueline Woodson, award-winning author of Brown Girl Dreaming

"Noble, daring and necessary—IW Gregorio's groundbreaking debut is a bittersweet, painful and ultimately life-affirming voyage of identity." — Elizabeth Wein, award-winning & NYT bestselling author of Code Name Verity

"Like the beloved physician she is, I. W. Gregorio brings rare knowledge and acute empathy to the illumination of an anatomical difference—and to the teens who discover, in the nick of time, the saving grace of knowing and being one's truest self. A book unlike any other." — Beth Kephart, award-winning author of Going Over and Small Damages

"None of the Above is a sensitive, beautifully written story, told with heart (break) and humor. Gregorio deftly explores the isolation of being 'other' in a highly relatable way. Bravo!" — Kristin Elizabeth Clark, author of FREAKBOY

"None of the Above rises above most young adult fiction because it has potential to evoke significant change...[A] compelling and touching narrative." — Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA)

"Kristin's struggle with her identity is wrenching and authentically conveyed." — Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books