‘OBIE is Man Enough’ by Schuyler Bailar

‘OBIE is Man Enough’ by Schuyler Bailar follows Obie: a seventh-grader, competitive swimmer, nerd, and Korean American boy. And Obie is trans.

When he realizes and shares that he is a boy, his family supports him wholeheartedly. But things don't always run smoothly—he loses his spot on the swim team, faces rejection from friends, and becomes a target of bullying and transphobia at school.

Still, the book is a hopeful and empowering read. His support network—including his family, therapist, and new friends—help him navigate these challenges with resilience and self-love. The story doesn’t shy away from real struggles, but it emphasizes affirmation, belonging, and what it means to be enough.

This is a powerful, accessible YA novel about identity, courage, and healing—written by a trans author who brings authenticity and compassion to every page.

CW: transphobia, bullying, misgendering, body image struggles