A Review of One of the Boys by Victoria Zeller
When I stumbled upon One of the Boys, I couldn’t help but be intrigued by its premise: a trans girl navigating the tumultuous waters of high school football. I’ve never been an athlete myself, having spent more of my formative years ensconced in books rather than on the field. Yet, author Victoria Zeller managed to weave a narrative that resonated deeply with me, inviting reflection on identity, friendship, and the quest for acceptance.
At the heart of the story is Grace Woodhouse, who comes out as trans just before her senior year and finds herself at a crossroads. Initially believing she’d have to leave football behind, Grace is drawn back in by her former teammates, prompting her to grapple with the hypermasculine culture of sports and her own emerging identity. Zeller paints a realistic portrait of Grace’s journey, layered with themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the complexities of relationships.
What struck me most was Zeller’s knack for capturing those small yet profound moments that echo the realities of being trans, like when Grace reflects on her past: “If things had gone differently—very differently, the way I wish they had in retrospect—I might have been teammates with Riley.” The chills that ran down my spine with that single sentence reflect the bittersweet essence of trans experiences. It encapsulates both the joy of living authentically and the wistfulness of pondering what could have been, a sentiment I suspect many of us carry.
Zeller’s writing style is commendably balanced—offering just enough description to immerse readers without getting bogged down. The pacing feels just right, allowing me to absorb Grace’s struggles while also feeling invested in her aspirations. While I might not share the same world of football as Grace, Zeller’s adeptness at crafting poignant and relatable emotions created a connection that transcended those differences.
The unexpected layers of acceptance within Grace’s world were wonderfully refreshing. Set against the backdrop of today’s political climate, it’s easy to assume that acceptance of trans individuals is always contentious. Yet, Zeller illustrates that many people simply accommodate and respect Grace, lending a sense of realism and hope to the narrative. One moment that encapsulates this is when Grace’s ex accidentally deadnames her; the feeling of “being punched in the throat” is an all-too-familiar anguish for many in the trans community.
Though Grace’s trans identity weaves through the novel, the true emotional arcs arise from her relationships with friends and family, not just her struggle for acceptance. The supportive presence of her teammates, although initially uncertain about her transition, adds an inspiring layer to the camaraderie and challenges she faces. As she juggles football, friendships, and her budding romantic life, one can’t help but root for Grace and empathize with her journey.
The resolution? Oh, it left me in happy tears! Zeller avoids clichéd endings, opting instead for choices that feel authentic to Grace’s character and her growth. Even though not every subplot received the full attention it deserved, like the role of Grace’s dad or some of the protest action, the essence of the story shines through.
If you’re looking for a quick read that blends humor, heart, and an exploration of identity, One of the Boys lies at that intersection beautifully. It’s an exemplary title not just for those in the LGBTQ+ community but for anyone craving an authentic high school story infused with the thrills of sports.
Ultimately, this novel, despite its imperfections, has found a special place in my heart. I would love to see it adapted into a film one day, capturing Grace’s vivid journey and resonating with audiences far and wide. Zeller’s debut is undoubtedly one of my favorites this year—like a great pass on the field, it lands perfectly and leaves you yearning for more.
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