Thanks for your email. I will not be writing a sequel to GEORGE. I appreciate that you’re interested in hearing more about Melissa’s story. However, the next steps in Melissa’s life are going to be very personal: they will involve therapists and conversations with Mom and important decision about how to present at school, etc.
Right now, transgender people are very “interesting” in popular culture. And while there are some good parts of that, there are also many cisgender people who are “fascinated” by transition, and being observed that way can feel like being an exhibit at a zoo. I’m going to keep that part of the story private.
If I ever return to Melissa’s world, it will be several years later, and from the point of view of a different character – possibly Rick, the bully Jeff’s main friend. It’s one thing to be bullied – it’s another to be under the bully’s thumb but apparently on his side. That story interests me a lot.
Thanks again for writing and I hope you understand and will share Melissa’s story anyway.
ETA: To be clear, I’m just speaking for me. Other trans writers and other trans people may have differing opinions on the topic.
Is it ok if I write about what happens next ? This really intrigues me, as it really applies to me as well. I am very similar to Melissa.
Hi there! I’m honored – one of the marks of a great book is not wanting it to end. I’ll bet if you wrote about what you seeing happening next for Melissa, you might learn something about yourself. 🙂
I would really like to see from Ricks point of view
I couldn’t put the book down! A terrific story and I can’t wait to recommend it to kids and adults. Thank you Alex for this story. As a children’s librarian I will be purchasing this for our collection.
Thanks for your kind words! Glad you enjoyed and will be sharing Melissa’s story.