alex gino melissa formerly published as george

For students questioning their own gender identity and/or sexuality, this is a book where they can finally see themselves represented. It is appropriate for late elementary and beyond, in my opinion, especially because the novel centers around a 4th grader and her experiences in school-which readers will be able to relate to. This book does not deserve the criticism it has received. Parents and other opposers fear of exposing their children to 'adult' themes that make sexual references, but it is important for students to receive a diversified yet holistic education. Despite its history of being banned in school districts, I believe Melissa is a wonderful book to teach in schools. She faces very real and relevant obstacles, including school bullies and adults who do not seem to take her seriously. We meet loveable characters like Melissa, a young transgender girl who is on her own journey of coming out to her friends and family. I read Melissa for a class book club, and I thoroughly enjoyed it! I think it tells a deeply emotional story through simple language and relatively simple themes. However, families may choose to review their kids' browsing history to make sure they're making safe choices online. In the Common Sense K–12 Digital Citizenship Curriculum we advise families and educators to empower kids to think critically about the websites they visit. Melissa then does this after searching the internet for transgender information.

Editor's note: In the story, Melissa's older brother shows her how to clear the browsing history after using their mom's computer.

Parents and teachers can use this book to talk about a wide variety of topics, including what it means to be transgender and to how to stand up for someone being bullied. Young readers who don't know what the word 'porn' means may be inclined to look it up. Scott mentions looking at porn and 'dirty' magazines as something boys do. The novel deals with gender identity, but there's no sexual activity. Some people, such as Melissa's older brother Scott, assume that Melissa is a gay boy, but she says she doesn't 'know who she liked, really, boys or girls.' The book was formerly titled George, but in 2021, at the author's request, it was retitled and republished as Melissa, to respect the main character's identity. Some kids taunt Melissa, and she's called a freak and gets punched by a bullying student. Along the way, she finds many supportive advocates, but her greatest ally is her best friend, Kelly. Parents need to know that Melissa is a novel about a transgender fourth grader called George who increasingly learns to be herself and to tell others about her secret.

Some bullying kids call Melissa a 'freak.'ĭid you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Language in your kid's entertainment guide.

Alex gino melissa formerly published as george