// The Truth About Me by Revathi (translated by V. Geetha)

Imagine being reminded every day that the life you've chosen isn't valid. The Truth About Me is a compelling memoir about Revathi, a trans woman who gives us a good view of how the hijra community works. Indians barely consider the lives of those who fall outside the only two genders that they are willing to acknowledge. There's a man and a woman and everything else that falls outside this closed, conservative and stifling box is automatically deemed to be wrong. We often spot hijras at traffic signals asking for money and are quick to shoo them away or even to slouch low so as to not be seen by them. We come from a place where we pass harsh comments about the work that they do, all the while refusing to hire them for decent jobs. Oh, the irony. Revathi's story is full of compassion and hurt but more than that it is enlightening.

Born as Doraisamy, Revathi never felt comfortable in her skin. As time goes by, she braves to learn more about her sexuality and in the process joins the hijra community. I was blown away by how complex the relationships are within their community in addition to the relationships, hierarchy and undying loyalty that they share with each other. This book is a huge learning process, one that nudges the readers to feel rather than just having to know about them. There's no doubt that this memoir carries a lot of hurt, most of it coming from their own families but it also serves as a reminder that one is never alone in having to come to terms with their sexuality. There's bravery, joy, independence and of course hope that someday, people will be willing to listen to their stories. It doesn't take much for them to feel safe but we as humans have failed time and again to give them the respect and support that they rightfully deserve.

The Truth About Me is one of those books that makes you ponder over your own actions or of those around you who refuse to acknowledge or even listen to the repressed community. Be a better person. Buy this book and learn about the trans community.