You Refuse to Believe that You Ever Liked Pink

As a young adult with autism spectrum disorder and countless physical ailments, Alex struggles to exist in a world that seems to run counter to how Dena’s child understands it. Along with the gender transition, Alex came into an awareness as an asexual (ace) adult, and this book reflects the search for all these identities. Even after a year of growth, Alex and Dena are still learning to navigate their relationship, define their roles, and how to claim their place in contemporary society.

Unlike other work about this subject, this book not only investigates Alex’s identity, but also how a mother transitions with her transgender child. Dena Elisabeth Eber mentored and supported similar young adults, but this time, she’s the mother. This work is her experience, and at the request of Alex, it reveals her child’s experience as well. Dena created this book for herself, for Alex, and for all those who love and care about someone who is transforming away from their birth gender.

You Refuse to Believe that You Ever Liked Pink examines the relationship between Dena and Alex through changing circumstances, supported by the unconditional love that they hold for one another. As for Dena’s voice, both pain and joy come through as she mourns the loss of who she thought Alex would be and falls in love with the person that Alex is becoming.

Essay by Alexa Dilworth
Design: Caleb Cain Marcus, Luminosity Lab (Brooklyn, NY)
ISBN 978 90 5330 958 2
Format: 17 x 22,5 cm.
128 pages with approx. 65 photos in full color
Hardback