Beyond They/Them
20 Influential Nonbinary and Gender-Diverse People You Should Know
In Em Dickson’s stunning biographical collection Beyond They/Them, nonbinary, gender-diverse, and two-spirit trailblazers are honored for their groundbreaking impacts across various media.
This dynamic book highlights twenty influential figures whose contributions span film, literature, music, sports, politics, and activism. From ND Stevenson’s creative genius in animation to Janelle Monáe’s “dazzling radicality” in music, the book details each individual’s ascent toward embracing their identity in societies that often demand conformity. The profiles are enriched by short lists of accomplishments, fun facts, trivia questions, and quotes from the subjects.
The standout illustrations feature bright, vibrant colors, making bold use of color-blocking techniques to capture each person’s physical likeness and essence. For example, American drag queen and politician Maebe A. Girl is illustrated holding a “Trans Rights” sign. Such visual storytelling complements the profiles well, conveying queer joy alongside people’s achievements.
Though honoring each person’s humanity, “this book is a snapshot of the lives of twenty people. Just twenty people.” This acknowledgment underscores the vastness of gender-related experiences. Still, the profiles serve as entry points into broader, ongoing conversations about nonbinary identities rather than definitive representations. In this way, the book invites continued discovery, urging, “Turn the page. Come on in.” The sensitive back matter includes a glossary of gender-related terms, a guide of referenced media, and a list of gender-diverse identities not mentioned in the biographies. These elements are educational, inclusive tools for engaging with the absorbing realities of nonbinary individuals.
Profiling twenty nonbinary innovators, Beyond They/Them celebrates the power of authentic self-expression and the courage required to sustain it.
Reviewed by
Brooke Shannon
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. No fee was paid by the publisher for this review. Foreword Reviews only recommends books that we love. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
