“Living authentically in a world that takes every opportunity to squeeze you uncomfortably into a box of someone else’s design…that is the most radical act of self love. Blossoming in an environment where the odds are stacked immeasurably against you is a beautiful act of defiance.”
― Theo Parish, Homebody: A Graphic Memoir of Gender Identity Exploration

In Homebody, a graphic memoir, author and artist Theo Parish discusses their journey to finding a home within themselves. Told from the perspective of current Theo looking back at younger Theo at different ages, Theo highlights the spectrum of life events that pushed them towards their true selves. The unknown and arbitrary gender rules throughout life, but especially in high school, tripped Theo up, leading them to question their gender identity and sexuality. Theo discusses finding a haircut that fit them, changing their clothing style, choosing their new name, and how trusted friends and family helped influence their everyday comfort.

This introspective memoir speaks to how gender can shape identity in a multitude of ways. Theo’s artwork is gentle and loving in their descriptions and drawings of their own journey. What struck me the most is how loving and understanding Theo is. Throughout this memoir, they reiterate that finding yourself and feeling at home in your own body won’t be the same for every person. It’s okay to change your mind, it’s okay to not know who you are, and you can take as much time as you need. These are important truths to understand.

“We are all just trying to find a place to call our own. We are all deserving of comfort and safety, a place to call home.”
― Theo Parish, Homebody: A Graphic Memoir of Gender Identity Exploration