The Pants Project - Hardcover

Clarke, Cat

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1492638099 ISBN 13: 9781492638094

Publisher: Sourcebooks Young Readers, 2017

Synopsis

A touching, humorous story of strong-willed eleven-year-old Liv, who is determined to challenge his school's terrible dress code and change his life. Inspire empathy and compassion (and a few laughs!) in young readers with this stunning middle-grade novel.

"My name is Liv (Not Olivia)... I'm not technically a girl. I'm transgender. Which is a bit like being a Transformer. Only not quite as cool because I probably won't get to save the world one day."

Liv knows he was always meant to be a boy, but with his new school's terrible dress code, he can't even wear pants. Only skirts.

Operation: Pants Project begins! The only way for Liv to get what he wants is to go after it himself. But to Liv, this isn't just a mission to change the policy―it's a mission to change his life. And that's a pretty big deal.

Perfect for parents, educators, and librarians looking for a book for young readers that:

Has a transgender main character with a humorous voice

Is a hopeful, sweet story with a happily-ever-after ending

Will prompt discussions on gender identity, bullying, self-esteem, empathy, acceptance, and social justice

A 2018 Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People selection

Amelia Bloomer Project nominee

A 2020 Pacific Northwest Young Readers Choice Awards nominee

About this title

About the Author

Cat Clarke is an award-winning author from the UK. She lives in Edinburgh. Visit her at catclarke.com.

Reviews

Gr 3–6—A wonderfully sweet middle grade story with a satisfying ending. Liv is starting middle school, and he is nervous. Liv is transgender, but he hasn't told anyone, so everyone assumes he is a girl. He will be attending a new school in the fall, and the dress code states that all girls must wear skirts. Liv takes matters into his own hands and decides to challenge the school's dress code, and along the way he finds allies in unexpected places. Peppered with a diverse cast of characters, including Liv, who is bullied at school because he has two moms, and his best friend, Jacob, who walks with a cane, this is an ultimately upbeat story that celebrates differences. Liv's family members are very supportive, and their Italian heritage shines through in their everyday lives. The hopeful tone makes it easier for readers to grapple with the serious issues discussed, and the happy-ever-after ending will not fail to satisfy. VERDICT Give to fans of Tim Federle's Better Nate Than Ever and Alex Gino's George. A strong purchase, especially in light of the need for younger middle grade fiction featuring transgender characters.—Jenni Frencham, Columbus Public Library, WI

Edition details

• Publisher: Sourcebooks Young Readers
• Publication date: 2017
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1492638099
• ISBN 13: 9781492638094
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 272