trans* sci fi & fantasy

It's such an exciting time to be reading! I'm always on the lookout for stories that not only transport me to other worlds but also offer fresh perspectives and powerful voices. That's why I absolutely adore dive into trans* sci-fi and fantasy. Especially with everything going on, celebrating these authors and their incredible imaginations feels more important than ever. Two books that have truly stayed with me are 'Light From Uncommon Stars' by Ryka Aoki and 'The Deep' by Rivers Solomon. If you've been curious about these titles or have seen their stunning book covers and wondered what lies within, let me tell you why they're absolute must-reads. First, let's talk about 'Light From Uncommon Stars' by Ryka Aoki. The very first thing that caught my eye was its beautiful, starry cover design – it perfectly hints at the cosmic and magical journey inside. This book is an absolute gem, weaving together the lives of a master violinist who, in a Faustian twist, owes seven souls to a demon, a young trans runaway searching for belonging, and an alien who surprisingly runs a donut shop. It sounds quirky, right? But it's so much more. Ryka Aoki crafts a narrative that is raw, deep, and incredibly heartwarming. I found myself completely immersed in the characters' struggles and triumphs, particularly the journey of the young trans runaway finding her voice and place in a sometimes-harsh world. It’s a story about chosen family, finding yourself, and the unexpected kindness of strangers and aliens. It truly resonated with me, leaving me with a sense of hope and wonder. Then there's 'The Deep' by Rivers Solomon, a book that completely blew me away. The cover, featuring a haunting mermaid-like figure, immediately sets the tone for a powerful, mythic tale. This novel explores the incredible history of the Wajinru, a society of mermaid-esque descendants of enslaved African women thrown overboard during the transatlantic slave trade. It’s a story about collective memory, trauma, and the magical reshaping of history. Rivers Solomon's prose is absolutely lyrical and immersive, pulling you into a world both beautiful and heartbreaking. Reading it felt like uncovering a forgotten legend, one that speaks volumes about resilience and heritage. The themes are profound, and the way Solomon handles such heavy topics with grace and imagination is truly masterful. Every page is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of remembering. Both Ryka Aoki and Rivers Solomon are brilliant authors bringing essential trans* voices to the forefront of speculative fiction. Their contributions are vital, not just for representation, but for enriching the entire genre with diverse perspectives and narratives that challenge, comfort, and inspire. These aren't just great books; they're experiences that will broaden your horizons and touch your heart. And if you're looking for more fantastic trans* SFF, don't miss 'Cemetery Boys' by Aiden Thomas – it's spooky, charming, and has a great found family dynamic with a trans teenage boy trying to fit in with his Latinx family as a brujo. Happy reading, everyone!