Book Review: One of the Boys by Victoria Zeller
From the moment I read the title One of the Boys, I was intrigued. The world of sports has always been a captivating arena, but intertwining that with the journey of a transgender girl stepping back onto the football field? It’s a concept that prickled my interest, and it’s no surprise that Victoria Zeller’s debut has caught the attention of many.
At its heart, One of the Boys is about Grace Woodhouse—a determined, talented student whose love for football runs deeper than just the game itself. After coming out as transgender and temporarily stepping away from the sport, she enters her senior year faced with the complexities of identity, acceptance, and the longing to belong. Returning to the field her former teammates still play on offers not just a shot at rekindling her passion for the game but also a deeper journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and resilience.
Zeller balances humor and poignancy beautifully. Through witty dialogue and authentic character interactions, the writing creates an immersive experience that feels incredibly relatable. I found myself laughing out loud at the locker room banter and then reflecting deeply on Grace’s internal struggles. The duality of her experience—a star athlete and a young transgender girl—offers a fresh perspective on both the complexities of team dynamics and the societal challenges many face.
The motif of “feelingsball” encapsulates Zeller’s narrative perfectly, with Grace’s emotional journey woven seamlessly into her physical one. This unique framing not only invites readers to explore the intersection of sports and identity but also exposes the fragility beneath bravado—an exploration I deeply appreciated. Grace’s relationship with her father was another standout, providing a genuine touch of warmth and authenticity. Their interactions brought depth, showing that familial bonds can be both supportive and challenging.
One of the most compelling elements was the way Zeller illustrates the reality of trans athletes in today’s world. The layered conversations about acceptance and discrimination are timely and impactful. In a climate where discussions surrounding transgender athletes in sports can often feel charged, this book invites us to look beyond policy and see the very real humans—like Grace—behind the statistics.
Zeller’s prose is engaging and accessible, meaning you don’t need to be a football aficionado to enjoy the book. If you’re like me, and a little (or a lot) out of your depth when it comes to sports lingo, you’ll still find yourself cheering for Grace’s journey.
I can’t help but reference a sentiment echoed by several readers: “A heartfelt, hilarious, and blisteringly honest.” This captures the essence of One of the Boys better than any analysis could. It’s a story that extends beyond the field and resonates with anyone grappling with identity, acceptance, and the quest for belonging.
I highly recommend this book to anyone—from teens searching for relatable narratives about friendship, sports, and self-discovery, to adults looking to rekindle the spark of youthful resilience. This book will inspire conversations around acceptance, breaking stereotypes, and the power of solidarity. For me, reading One of the Boys left me not just entertained but inspired. It reminded me of the beauty of sports and the indomitable spirit that lives in all of us—the need to play and to be seen, from the football field to wherever we call home.
You can find One of the Boys here >>