Point of View

The Other Boy is told from the first-person narrative perspective of Shane. This intimate view into his thoughts and emotions enables readers to empathize with Shane as he struggles to embrace his body. Though a reliable narrator, Shane’s youth drastically impacts his voice. He is often selfish, immature, and self-conscious. These traits are strongly associated with puberty and, therefore, help reflect his anxieties as a transgender pre-teen. By emphasizing his naivety, M. G. Hennessey effectively conveys why Shane has difficulty coming to terms with his gender identity. He believes that no one, including Josh, can fully accept him because he is transgender. Only advice from Alejandra, who is two years older than Shane, helps him recognize that some people will love you unconditionally.

Though Rebecca and Alejandra insist that Shane is not lying by presenting himself as a boy because he is a male...