Whether it’s escaping boarding school, or buying hormones from the local speed dealer, Geraldine is open to all the world has to offer – even if the world doesn’t quite know what to make of her.
This is the story of a woman who changes the world that wants to change her. Geraldine is born with an adventurer’s heart. Whether it’s escaping from boarding school in Rhodesia, or buying hormones from the local speed dealer in Weston-super-Mare, Geraldine is open to all the world has to offer – even if the world doesn’t quite know what to make of her. Arriving in Australia as an adolescent, Geraldine finds solace and self-discovery through music. As she grows into a woman, she not only inspires others but also learns to be accepted for who she truly is.
(5/5)
I was entranced by Geraldine’s voice and Thompson’s writing from the first few pages. The short chapters act as vignettes through Geraldine’s life, with the simple, honest, and realistic dialogue paired with a matter-of-fact description of the world and people around her. Other characters and locations throughout the book feel distinct, helping the flow of the narrative across countries and decades.
Going in, I was unsure if I would feel preached to, but not at all – the politics and circumstances hooked me in and left at times a sense of joy with how Geraldine was readily accepted in some communities, and other times embarrassment and frustration for our country’s relationship with sex and gender inequality and rights. ‘Geraldine’ is a quiet, but powerfully compelling story, and easy to get lost in, as I found myself eagerly awaiting the next time I could pick it back up to continue.
(3/5)
There are plenty of stories of sex, drugs and rock and roll, but ‘our Gerald’s’ story is more one of punk, drugs and years later alternative sex. Geraldine is the younger son of a couple who are busy surviving in the gender stereotypes of their culture. They seem to give both their sons more freedom than I could ever imagine having at their age
I enjoyed the interesting insights into life in England, Rhodesia and Australia in the 50s and 60s, as well as the English boarding schools of the time. My curiosity for the emotions, inner thoughts and life journey of those who experience a different certainty to my experience of a biological female gender stereotype however was not satisfied.
The telling of Geraldine’s story was far too factual and unemotional for me to understand her biological male needing to transition to a female. I felt little sympathy for their confusion of gender, with no attempt to explain their inner thoughts in the mire of drugs, music scene and a dysfunctional family.
(4/5)
I really engaged with the title character and was invested in her identity struggles. I was frequently angry, particularly at the way she was treated by people who should have had her back. The recent history of laws regarding identity and sexual relationships is fascinating. It’s disturbing to know that homosexuality was a criminal offence within my lifetime. I loved the music references, although, personally, I think people who like the music of the Police and Genesis are actually ok.
Not sure about the book’s ending. It felt rather abrupt. I would have liked to spend longer in Geraldine’s company. I need to know that she is ok now, in a world which is starting to learn to value people regardless of their pronouns or orientation.
(4/5)
Geraldine is a captivating novel that delves into the life of an adventurous 6-year-old girl navigating her dysfunctional family dynamics with remarkable stoicism and pragmatism. The story takes readers on a journey from the United Kingdom to Zambia and Australia, where Geraldine’s love of music becomes a defining element of her destiny.
Thompson’s crisp writing style adds pace and edge to the narrative, much like Geraldine herself. This is an engrossing tale as she matures and grapples with the world’s reaction to her authentic self. The 80s music scene in Perth is a wonderful backdrop to her adventures as your heart swells with love for her courage in those uncertain times. There are definitely heroes walking quietly amongst us.
(5/5)
‘Our Gerald’ understood since she was 4 years old that she was different to her body, not realising that the world would not. Highly intelligent and adventurous she grows up in the tolerance murky 1960s and 70s. Music gives her connection to others, whether the punk scene of Yorkshire, the emancipation of Zambia or fellow Rhodesian school boarders. Sneaking into a pub gig to see The Jam is ”quite the day for her autonomous nervous system’ – she is addicted. Before turning 16 she becomes the manager of her brother Harry’s band. This is the turning point too for her gender identity – she proclaims to the world ‘for bookings call Geraldine’. When she and her parents move to Western Australia Geraldine has to again figure out how to be herself, and as she takes on family, medical professionals, bogans and authority figures we witness her rise to rockstar. What a heartfelt and poignant journey.
For a child who wanted to be a donkey Geraldine carried a lifetime of burdens: health issues; lost loves; bureaucratic humiliation; police harassment; a missing beloved and supportive big brother; boarding school woes. But her influence on the music industry, LGBT law reform and the lives of others saw her kicking butt. She is so much more than the ‘ordinary girl’ she aspired to be.
The clever cover art is as eye-catching and evocative as a coveted album sleeve, worthy of bedroom wall display.
(3/5)
The reader is able to go on the journey of Geraldine’s life from living in England, boarding school in Rhodesia, then moving to Australia with her brother’s band.
“I just try and be me”.
Geraldine is a beautiful story of resilience and a determination to find one’s place in the world. By being herself, Geraldine encourages other people to be their true selves too. Music is used as a tool to express and support herself and others. Thompson explores themes of transphobia, racism, sexuality, and complex family dynamics. By being authentic, Geraldine challenges societal norms and expectations.
However, often I found moments in the beginning where it was difficult to read and I had to keep pushing through. But it was well worth it and I am glad I did! Geraldine is a beautiful story of one’s transformation into becoming their true self.
(5/5)
A Captivating Journey of Self-Discovery and Resilience
Geraldine by Andrea Thompson is an extraordinary historical novel that completely captivated me from the very first page. Geraldine’s story is one of courage, self-discovery, and resilience, and I couldn’t help but be swept away by her unflinching honesty and vibrant energy. From sneaking out of her home and boarding school, Geraldine’s fearless spirit is impossible not to admire. She’s unapologetically herself, even when the world struggles to figure her out.
The story also reveals the complex relationships within her family. Her parents, Frank and Grace, seem distant and detached, never truly understanding or supporting Geraldine in the ways she needs. They’re not all they seem, and their inability to connect with her creates a profound sense of isolation. However, her older brother, Harry, stands as a beacon of love and acceptance. He’s supportive of everything “our Geraldine” does, offering the kind of unwavering encouragement that is truly heart-warming.
What truly stands out to me, though, is the way this book explores Geraldine’s coming-of-age journey, especially the themes of identity, gender, and racism. As Geraldine grows, she must navigate the complexities of transitioning from “Gerald” to “Geraldine,” and Thompson beautifully captures her struggle to reconcile her true self with societal expectations. Her identity remains as Geraldine throughout the novel, despite those around her calling her Gerald. The novel’s exploration of racism, especially during Geraldine’s time in Zambia, adds an important layer of depth, as she faces challenges that only strengthen her resolve to live authentically.
The way Thompson weaves Geraldine’s love of music into her personal growth was truly magical for me. Music becomes so much more than just a backdrop; it’s the key to unlocking her soul, helping her transform from “Gerald” into “Geraldine” for those around her. I found Thompson’s prose to be incredibly engaging, drawing me into each scene and allowing me to feel every emotion that Geraldine experiences along the way.
Geraldine is an incredibly heart-warming and life-affirming read that reminded me of the power of individuality. It’s a book that celebrates staying true to who you are, no matter the obstacles you face, and is especially important in today’s uncertain times.
I couldn’t recommend it more.
(5/5)
A Captivating Journey of Self-Discovery and Resilience
Geraldine by Andrea Thompson is an extraordinary historical novel that completely captivated me from the very first page. Geraldine’s story is one of courage, self-discovery, and resilience, and I couldn’t help but be swept away by her unflinching honesty and vibrant energy.
The story also reveals the complex relationships within her family. Her parents, Frank and Grace, seem detached, never truly understanding or supporting Geraldine in the ways she needs. However, her older brother, Harry, stands as a beacon of love and acceptance. He’s supportive of everything “our Geraldine” does, offering the kind of unwavering encouragement that is truly heart-warming.
What truly stands out is the way this book explores Geraldine’s coming-of-age journey, especially the themes of identity, gender, and racism. Thompson beautifully captures Geraldine’s struggle to reconcile her true self with societal expectations.
I loved how Thompson weaves Geraldine’s love of music into her personal growth, making it more than just a backdrop; it’s the key to unlocking her soul, helping her transform into herself.
I found Thompson’s prose to be incredibly engaging, drawing me into each scene and allowing me to feel every emotion that Geraldine experiences along the way.
Geraldine is an incredibly heart-warming and life-affirming read that reminded me of the power of individuality. It’s a book that celebrates staying true to who you are, no matter the obstacles you face, and is especially important in today’s uncertain times. I couldn’t recommend it more.
(4/5)
Geraldine tells the story of the titular character, who is born as Gerald but knows that this isn’t who she truly is. Geraldine has always known that she is different. When she discovers music, it both comforts her and allows her to discover who she is.
Geraldine feels like a story in two parts. The first half covers the period up to when Geraldine moves to Australia. This period of Geraldine’s self-discovery and transformation is set against the significant cultural and musical changes of the 1960s and 70s. The second half covers her adult life after she and her parents immigrate to Australia, where she decides to truly claim her identity and to make a stand for others like her. Thompson’s weaving of references to the changing music landscape and significant events regarding gender diversity in WA is done in a way that feels natural to the story rather than forced.
The second half of the story feels somewhat less well-developed that the first half as it seeks to cover a longer period in Geraldine’s life in less detail. However, overall Geraldine is a moving, honest, and ultimately human story that feels increasingly important considering recent world events.
(5/5)
Geraldine is born in England in the 1960s as Gerald but always knows that she is in the wrong body. Her childhood is difficult, in particular reconciling with her identity when she has never seen or heard of others like her. Her life is changed for the better when her older brother Harry introduces her to music. Then her parents once again uproot her life, moving the family to Western Australia. The second half of the book follows now-adult Geraldine, her relationships, reconnecting to the music world, and her fight for justice and equality.
Geraldine’s story is at times heartbreaking, but her strength and spirit shine through. She is a fighter and you want to be in her corner all the way.
As soon as I see records on the cover of a book, you’ve got my interest and as a music lover, I loved the references to the music world, including a Jam concert, a trip to Glastonbury, and backstage at the Big Day Out.
For me, this is definitely a 5-star read, but if you have no interest in music or LGBTQIA+ rights and issues, then this may not be the book for you.
(3/5)
Geraldine has been born inside the wrong body. She knows this from an early age, even if her family doesn’t. Moving homes and schools when her father changes jobs, often with little notice, Geraldine develops strong independence and self-awareness. She is guided by her older brother into the local music scene where a natural talent for band management emerges, and Geraldine finds a growing acceptance of her gender diversity.
When her parents suddenly uproot Geraldine out of her established comfort zone and move to Australia, she decides it is time to leave the family nest. Geraldine finds a foothold in the Perth music industry and embarks on her first intimate relationship. This leads to further personal growth and ultimately sees Geraldine immersed in Western Australian politics of gender.
I enjoyed reading Geraldine and the style of writing gave me a bird’s eye view into gender diversity. I found myself imagining how challenging it would be to grow up as a transgender child and this reinforced to me the importance of making books with diverse characters such as Geraldine available. Overall, the story was engaging however there was a disconnect at times between the themes of family, music, and gender identity.
(5/5)
Wow, what an eye-opener! Without giving away the whole story, Geraldine was a hard-basket person. Arriving in a strange country as an adolescent would be hard enough, but as for working out your sexuality!
I can’t believe some of the doctors from years ago and how they treated people trying to adjust to working out who they are. All I can say is thank goodness things have changed in today’s era. There was not much help for older generations to see what life would have been like. Thank you to Andrea Thompson for having the courage to pen this story.
(5/5)
A courageous life story in which the protagonist discovers who they truly are through rawness, truth, and vivacious energy. The protagonist will discover the reasons behind their feelings of disconnect from the family unit and find genuine support from those around them.
The book touches on multiple themes, self-discovery, gender and identity, social expectations, racism, and musicality that all wove seamlessly together to create a thought-provoking and memorable read.
It will make you quite emotional and you will fall in love with the protagonist and be cheering them on until the very end of the story.
(5/5)
Geraldine has never been one to apologize for who she is—no matter how many people try to erase her through their words, actions, or outright violence.
Spanning three continents, this novel follows Geraldine’s journey as a relatively misunderstood child navigating an unstable home to a trailblazing band manager in the chaotic, electric world of early punk rock in England and Australia.
My heart ached as she battled daily for recognition, facing relentless invalidation from doctors, strangers, and even the law itself. But amid the struggle, there’s warmth—especially in the unbreakable bond with her chosen family who embraced her completely, and her brother’s love.
The book was written beautifully, and I really enjoyed the mention of artists from Television to Tim Rogers, and The Jam to Jebediah, as well as real venues and events like the Big Day Out.
With historical insights into LGBTIQA+ rights and law reform in Australia, this book also delves into the AIDS crisis, racism, gender identity, friendship, and the raw, rebellious spirit of a time defined by sex, drugs, and a whole lot of rock ’n’ roll.
(4/5)
Geraldine was a surprising, inspiring and insightful read.
It follows the story of gender-diverse Geraldine, from a child in UK and Zambia then to Perth. The character of Geraldine (Gerald) is always written and identified in the book as a female, something she had always felt from a young boy, becoming a strong woman as described by her doctor. The book also follows the music and drug scene in the 70s and 80s through her eyes as a band manager and importantly, the politics of gender that she becomes instrumental in.
Geraldine is a wonderful personal look into the life of a young person struggling and surviving in a community that did not know how to deal with her differences. I particularly could relate to the times, places, and music genres (although maybe not my favourites) which made it very nostalgic for me.
A great read! Thank you Andrea Thompson.