The Passing Playbook

The Passing Playbook by Isaac Fitzsimons is a contemporary romance published by Penguin on June 1, 2021. This 304-page novel follows fifteen-year-old Spencer Harris, a transgender athlete navigating the challenges of acceptance and identity at his new school, Oakley. After a difficult year marked by bullying, Spencer finds a more supportive environment where he can pursue his passion for soccer and form new friendships, including a budding romance with a teammate. However, his journey becomes complicated when a discriminatory law threatens his place on the team.
Readers will find a narrative that explores themes of identity, acceptance, and the complexities of coming of age within the context of sports and LGBTQ experiences. As Spencer grapples with the decision to either remain stealth or fight for his right to play, the story delves into the emotional stakes involved in being true to oneself. The book presents a vivid portrayal of Spencer’s struggles and triumphs, making it a relevant addition to the Young Adult Fiction genre, particularly for those interested in romance and sports.
Official synopsis Publisher
Love, Simon meets Bend It Like Beckham in this feel-good contemporary romance about a trans athlete who must decide between fighting for his right to play and staying stealth.
“A sharply observant and vividly drawn debut. I loved every minute I spent in this story, and I’ve never rooted harder for a jock in my life.” – New York Times bestselling author Becky Albertalli
Fifteen-year-old Spencer Harris is a proud nerd, an awesome big brother, and a David Beckham in training. He’s also transgender. After transitioning at his old school leads to a year of isolation and bullying, Spencer gets a fresh start at Oakley, the most liberal private school in Ohio.
At Oakley, Spencer seems to have it all: more accepting classmates, a decent shot at a starting position on the boys’ soccer team, great new friends, and maybe even something more than friendship with one of his teammates. The problem is, no one at Oakley knows Spencer is trans—he’s passing.
But when a discriminatory law forces Spencer’s coach to bench him, Spencer has to make a choice: cheer his team on from the sidelines or publicly fight for his right to play, even though it would mean coming out to everyone—including the guy he’s falling for.
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