Alice In Genderland by Novic Richard M.D., Richard J. Novic M.D., Richard Novic M.D., Richard Novic M.d. (2005, Paperback)

I have been researching my own TG issues and stumbled onto this fascinating book. It's the rather well-written, compelling autobiography of a crossdressing psychiatrist who has negotiated a remarkable degree of freedom within his marriage and been able to live life to the fullest. Like most transgendered individuals, Richard's childhood history is an uncanny parallel to my own youthful confusion. And I found his book to be a vivid and accurate document of the TG social scene in L.A. in the late 90's. But its real value is in the refreshingly candid way Richard/Alice speaks of the conundrum of being born transgendered and the inner tension most of us experience because of it. Nothing is left out to protect the innocent, and Dr. Novic breaks down many walls with his honest and effective communication. I admire Richard's ability to understand Alice's basic needs and ultimately get those needs met. Many of us TG's just have too much emotional baggage from years spent trying to live up to being "the good son"--to sort out our own best path and maintain our self worth. It can be a difficult balancing act, which for some causes great guilt, shame, and even suicide. In the end, after a high-wire act of amazing adventures and near disasters, Dr. Richard Novic finds his balance, and offers the world a wonderful story and special fund TG knowledge in "Alice in Genderland."