Your honest opinion, please...

Diana Hignutt · Aug 20, 2005

I'd like to ask you for your honest opinion about something. Not specifically about my writing, per se, but about your my identity as an author, if you will. Let me explain. As some of you may know, I write fantasy novels. As some of your may further know, I happen to be a post operative transsexual woman. Here's the question in a nutshell: Would the fact that I am transsexual negatively impact your decision to read my work? Please be honest. Do you immediately think that I may have less talent, or that my work would have less interest to you because of my having undergone SRS (Sexual Reassignment Surgery).

Now, so far, most of my published work deals with the exploration of gender change in some respect, though probably much less than you may assume. Clearly, it is a major issue (theme, if you will) of my life, and artistically it is a strong inspiration for me. I also do feel compelled to not keep the fact that I am ts a secret, so I can be an postive example to others.

Now, for my next book, my publisher thinks we should downplay the fact that I am ts, and the ts theme of the book, and play up the fact that I am a "brilliant novelist with a extremely wonderfully well-written, powerful book." We had this discussion just the other day, and it really got me thinking, and so I bring you this question.

So, I ask the question a little differently again. If you knew an author had earned plenty of award nods, and positive indusry reviews, would you consider reading their work, if you also knew they were transsexual? How would that knowledge influence your decision, if at all?

Now, I will say that I will never use a pen name for the purpose of hiding my nature. I am in no way ashamed of who or what I am. My decision to undergo gender reassignment was the best decision I have made in my life, and I am intensely proud to be me. The fact that I am ts has opened many media doors for me, but I do fear that people may not take me as seriously as a writer as they otherwise may have. I'm not sure what I can do about it, if that appears to be the case, except keep trying to write better and better books and hope for the best. Perhaps, after I complete my MOONSWORD TRILOGY, and have more non-tg themed work published, this will be less of an issue.

What do you think? I value your opinion. Thanks.

Diana Hignutt

aadams73 · Aug 20, 2005

No.

Gender, sexual preference, marital status, political stance, religious affiliations*, and just about anything else about your(or any author's) personal life have anything to do with whether or not I'll buy your book. If it looks interesting to me, I'll buy it.

*Unless your name is Tim LaHaye or L. Ron Hubbard, in which case I won't even look at it on the shelf.

azbikergirl · Aug 20, 2005

Would your being ts infuence my decision to buy? Perhaps, but not for the reason you might think. Your personal experiences with SRS would probably make that aspect of your novel(s) more immersive and intense, and that's part of why I read: to experience life as somone else. I'm not compelled to read stories about transsexual individuals, but if an intriguing story happens to involve ts people, I'd read the first page to judge the writing -- just as I do with every book I buy. IOW, I would not put a book back on the shelf just because I discover the author is transsexual.

triceretops · Aug 20, 2005

Diana, as far as I'm concerned you've always been up and up with this community, and told it like it was from the begining. I've always admired your straightforwardness, candid, and honest nature. I have been following your writing history, and sincerely, have enjoyed your successes right along with you. There is no doubt that you have found an audience with your books, and I think they are unique in that they explore a subject that most of us don't properly understand. So, in that vein, you've brought us something new and different into the storyline industry. You have a new angle--a new perspective that I believe needs to be showcased.

If I were you, I would divulge my life-choice and experiences as the demand of the those questions arose. This might be in the form of interviews and profiles that come with the publicity releases, and if the subject came up, sure, explain away. I don't think it distracts from you, but rather instills an intrigue and curiosity. Notwithstanding, I do believe it is your writing talent that outshines everything else--you've been nominated and cited for awards, and by golly I would certainly play that up.

I see you as a great novelist. I can meet you in your books. Now, just curious--does this issue have to do with mentioning your ts on a book blurb or in your bio? Or on the book's website and other media forms?

Anyway, you raise one hell of a good question with this. I'll tune back in and check with some other responses. I want to think on this one and so some research.

Hugs, Triceratops

AdamMac · Aug 20, 2005

I can't imagine any fans of the genre (such as me) would decline to buy a book of yours because of your gender change. If anything, it may add to sales of your books themed on the topic. You're probably aware of that though.

Is your concern more one of being ghetto-ized, pigeon-holed into writing on a certain theme? I think that's something you could easily avoid.

brinkett · Aug 20, 2005

All I care about is that the author can write a decent story and decent characters.

At what point are you mentioning that you're ts (in the book's author bio, in press releases, ?).

Diana Hignutt · Aug 20, 2005

My humble thanks to all who have answered so far.

Yeah, basically, this comes from my publishers decision to de-emphasize the tg elements in both my bio and book blurb, online and on the upcoming new book.

Here's the link to the new book page:

http://www.behlerpublications.com/titles-diana2.asp

And here's the link to my other book's page:

http://www.behlerpublications.com/titles-diana.asp

Though it certainly is not necessary to follow the links to continue this discussion, it will allow you to see the difference. I do not disagree with my publisher's decision, but I am not without reservations about it. Part of me feels it betrays who I am, and the other part just wants to sell books the best way possible.

Please keep the input coming. I truly appreciate your honesty and time.

diana

cwfgal · Aug 20, 2005

It wouldn't matter to me one way or the other. Whether or not it's a good marketing strategy to mention it or not mention it, I don't know.

Beth

brinkett · Aug 20, 2005

What's the reason for the change? Do they feel people aren't buying your book because you're ts?

A person who would reject your book because you're ts isn't likely to buy a book with a ts theme/character, anyway. And if there are strong ts elements in the new book, I think it's a mistake not to bring that out in the blurb in the hope of snagging readers who wouldn't usually pick up such a book. It could anger those readers if they feel duped.

But then, I'm not a publisher or a marketing expert.

Christine N. · Aug 20, 2005

You know I love you Diana. You know I adored Empress, as I'm sure I'll adore Moonspell. I HAVE to read it, just to get the backstory to Empress, it was THAT compelling.

If I were a person who had never "met" you, and hadn't read the bio on the back of the book, I never would have known about your ts.

Here's my take - perhaps put it in the press releases and jazz, but you don't necessarily have to mention it on the book jacket. Unless you REALLY want to. I don't think it makes a difference one way or another - it's still great writing.

On the other hand, there are those people who might not read it b/c of that. They exist, we know they do.

I'm no help, am I. LOL. The publisher is thinking about it, b/c the bottom line is sales. Readers. If you don't care that people who might not like your ts status are picking up the book, then don't put it on the book. If you do, then do.

Having read your work, I think the TS element is put forth in a manner that I don't think anyone would relate it to YOU specifically,unless they already know. It's a fantasy, and all kinds of things happen in fantasy. You've put it out there as such, and I think the story appeals to all lovers of fantasy. The change of the MC's sex is really background to the story, not THE story. See what I mean?

Sigh. Like I said, do what your gut tells you. You know where to find me

inexperiencedinker · Aug 20, 2005

hhmmm...i don't know what my feelings are on this. I understand you not wanting to betray what you are, but sometimes you don't need to make life difficult for yourself. Don't lie, and when asked, sure tell the story and reasons and facts in your life, but I am not a firm believer in flag waving. I work in a VERY professional office, for the government, and wear a suit to work every day. Only one person knows I am pagan, because they asked, and beyond that I don't care to express my personal views in life. I am sure some have figured it out on their own, but I am not one to carry a banner proclaiming my views and religion. It's a personal issue for everyone, and good luck deciding your course.
As far as not reading a book because of the author, I think that is phooey. Any good book worm knows that the story is what is important. The only time you will anger readers is if you hold out from them, either with a new book for more money (Jean M. Auel) or don't put all you have into the writing. I doubt many would be biased either way. Good luck!

Richard · Aug 20, 2005

Diana - I really couldn't care less. If it's a book I want to read, it doesn't matter if you're male, female or Martian. I might get a bit annoyed if the whole promotion was just based on that and it wasn't a core part of the book however - simply because I usually want to know more about the book than its author when deciding what to read next. Obviously, if it's connected to the story, it's a different matter.

(Semi-related: you might be interested to look up the story of Dan/Dani Bunten-Berry - a pretty famous game designer who had the operation, and all the tributes that flooded in after she died (http://www.anticlockwise.com/dani/tributes.htm). In every case, it was his/her work that made his/her name (I use both because she was a designer before and after) rather than the operation.)

Susan Gable · Aug 20, 2005

Diana,

Your background may have been relevent when you were writing books that really focused on those themes. It gave some authenticity - you'd walked the walk, so to speak.

But, since it really shouldn't matter about you as a person (and yet, there are readers out there who wouldn't read your book if they knew about your experience. Hey, there are readers out there who won't read a book for all sorts of bizzare reasons. I know some people who not only won't read a book by an author if it contains a miscarriage, but they then refuse to read all books by that some author. I don't know how they haven't run out of authors to pick from given the fact that miscarriage is such a fairly common occurance for women) and since your publisher is steering you to tone down those themes in your work, then I'd say yes, consider not making such a big issue in your bios, etc.

That's not being ashamed of who you are, it's being a good business person, and this is a business, first and foremost.

Although I will say that if the book contains strong transgender elements, and they play that down on the blurb, etc. - that can lead to some highly disgruntled readers. I think readers should know what they're getting in a book. Those kinds of "surprises" can make the reader feel like they were lied to on the blurb, and that makes them less likely to buy future books.

But that's about how they represent the BOOK, not about you.
Best of luck with however you decide to handle it! :Sun:

Susan G.

Sheryl Nantus · Aug 20, 2005

hmm... I'm going to take a different line on this just to be ornery...

the publisher may be concerned that you're mentioning this particular aspect of your life too MUCH in your bios...

for example: on a recent Queer Eye the boys had to deal with a nudist - great fellow and they dressed him up in a tux for a dinner party, but when he met his family all spruced up all he could talk about was how he was going to be NAKED later... over and over again, even tho they knew his hobby of being a naturalist and that they knew he was going to a party that was going to be clothing-optional within a few minutes of them arriving.

the QE boys thought it was a bit pushy, given that everyone pretty well knew the circumstances.

it may be (and I could be 'orribly wrong, so apologies in advance) that your publisher perceives your ts status as being overmentioned - that you should be defining yourself as an award-winning author who happens to ALSO be a ts, not the other way around. But if you mention it over and over and over again it may overshadow the fact that your writing has received acclaims and awards outside of the ts community...

again, just tossing out another take on the situation and totally disregard if necessary....

James D. Macdonald · Aug 20, 2005

"Brilliant book" is far more likely to gain mass readership than "TS writer."

Lilybiz · Aug 20, 2005

Hi Diana,

I'd guess it depends somewhat on your target audience. If your books take a more hip or liberal stance on such subjects, then your readers would be people who don't object to that anyway. Those who do object aren't likely to be interested in your work, regardless of your personal history.

Just my two cents.

Vanessa · Aug 20, 2005

Diana,

I would definitely agree with most of the posters here. Write a good book: It sells! And the only reason I wouldn't buy your book regardless of who you are is simply because "the book" doesn't appeal to me. I would follow the advice of the publisher, and find out specifically their reasons in wanting you to tone things down. Now there will be people out there, who wouldn't buy it simply because of who you are, but those are the same people who wouldn't buy it if they were prejudice against race, sexual preference, gender, etc.

I say keep writing and as you've already made your mark in the industry, continue to focus all that energy in creating more books. This big ole' world is full of folks that will either support you or tear you down. You just have to maintain and do what feels good for you and let that pen do the walking.

Good Luck! Go get 'em!

Andrew Jameson · Aug 20, 2005

What Uncle Jim said. "Check out this new book by a transsexual" ain't gonna get me to buy it. Nor is "Check out this new book by an ex-Marine", "...a neurosurgeon", "...a scratch golfer", "...a Bulgarian", or "...a brain in a jar".

But "Check out this new book by a brilliant writer." Ah. *That* will get me to buy it.

Since we're talking about marketing here (er... we are, aren't we?), I think there's a distinct difference between "Diana Hignutt is a great writer (who is also a transsexual)" and "Diana Hignutt is a transsexual (who is also a great writer)."

Arkie · Aug 20, 2005

The author's personal life makes no difference to me. It's all about the book.

maestrowork · Aug 20, 2005

Diana, my initial thought is that your personal life and who you are as a person shouldn't have any impact on your books. Personally, I wouldn't care. So go for it.

My second thought, however, is that the reality is different. Some people are going to either buy or not buy your book based on the fact that 1) you are a TS and 2) your book has TS themes in it. So, I kind of agree with your publisher that if you want to reach a wider audience, you might want to stress the "brilliant book by a brilliant author" and downplay the TS angle. An analogy would be that a book with gay themes might still work with the general public, but if it's a gay book by a gay author, suddenly it becomes a "Gay/Lesbian" niche fiction...

If the TS theme is only a part of your book, and the story is so much more than that, then I'd say, downplay the TS part. If however, you feel that the TS theme is essential and important and you want to reach people who might be interested in that theme, then go for it.

For me, I'm an Asian-American immigrant with an interesting background. But I chose not to market my book as an "Asian-American" book because I want to target a wide, mainstream audience. Perhaps I would lose some readers by not marketing it to the "niche" Asian market, but it's a choice I made. But I think the fact that I'm Asian, and my book has Asian themes in it would achieve that anyway, without me harping about the facts. It may or may not affect people's buying decisions -- I don't know. But I doubt it. I mean, if my use a name like "John Smith," I think my book would still attract those who like that kind of stories. My ethnicity shouldn't have anything to do with it.

Just my thought.

ChunkyC · Aug 20, 2005

So, I ask the question a little differently again. If you knew an author had earned plenty of award nods, and positive indusry reviews, would you consider reading their work, if you also knew they were transsexual? How would that knowledge influence your decision, if at all?

Why not? To be truthful, as far as enjoying a book goes, I don't care if the author is gay, straight, bisexual or has extra toes. Is the story good or not?

I think what your publisher may be getting at is what a few posters mentioned above. The primary emphasis should be on the book. Like others have said, don't hide that you are ts, but don't make it the focus of the media campaign to sell your work.

With that said, if there is a ts character or characters, and the whole issue is prevalent in the novel, then yes you need to hilight that along with the other pertinent themes running through the book that make it what it is. Naturally, in discussing ts in the book, the fact that you are ts will and certainly should come up since it shows you have the perspective to deal with the issue from a position of your own experience. But it should be treated in the same manner as anyone who brings a perspective to their work, such as a doctor like Tess Gerritsen writing medical thrillers, or someone who grew up as a member of a minority who's writing contains elements concerning racial tensions.

PS -- I truly admire you being so forthright. You have strength and courage and talent. In the long run, those are the things that will promote and sell your work.

Christine N. · Aug 20, 2005

I think the TS aspect of your book is secondary. I know it's a big part of what Moonspell is going to be, but Empress wasn't really about being a TS; although you make certain to let the reader understand how it affects her life... it's not like the whole book is about her sex change and how she deals with it. It's part of the story, but there's a whole of action/adventure/ storyline in there. You couldn't have the story without the TS aspect, but it's not the focus. At least I didn't think so. It was a means to an end. You know what I mean?

Dont' cover it up, but maybe don't put it out there in lights either. Like your book, make it secondary to the book itself.

You ARE a brilliant writer, Diana, don't let anything detract from that.

Not that putting it out there WOULD, but some people might make a bigget deal out of it, and you want it to be about your writing, right?

WriterInChains · Aug 20, 2005

Hi Diana,

First, congrats on your books -- what a wonderful career you've had so far!

I read both web sites you have links to in your original message & I must admit that the first one [not the "new book" link] grabbed me more. That's probably because my daughter is an MTF ts, though. If anything, knowing that you're ts would make me buy the books instead of checking them out from the library [my book budget isn't even close to what I'd like it to be!]. I know that everyone's experiences are different, but I have an idea of some of the things you've been through & let's face it -- we all have some biases & predilections, & one of mine is to support brave people. If I also get to find a new author in the process, so much the better!

Regarding the marketing angle, as in everything else I'd advise to follow your heart/gut/conscience [whatever you prefer to call it]. It's your book, & your career, & you're the one who has to live with it so be happy with it; make sure it fits who you truly are as much as possible -- without shooting yourself in the foot.

Have a great weekend!
Caren

sunandshadow · Aug 20, 2005

Well personally I'm interested in gender and sexuality issues, so I might actually be more likely to read your stuff knowing that you are a TS.

HapiSofi · Aug 20, 2005

Considerations:

1. You're a nominally female author writing a genre fantasy series. That's a rough place to be right now -- lots of competition and lots of market pressure, especially at the low end of the sales range. You need to break out of the pack.

2. That first piece of copy you linked to was bog-standard genre fantasy wordwooze. It does you no harm, but I'm not sure it does you a lot of good, either.

3. Anything you say on the cover of a book will get you some sales and lose others. Gay content became a plus in bookselling when publishers realized how many books were being sold through gay bookstores. (Never doubt it matters where you buy your books.) If there's significant transgender content in your novels, mentioning it in the catalogue might not be a terrible idea.

4. The science fiction/fantasy community already has three significant writers who are male-to-female transgender cases. I don't believe any of them mention it prominently in their bios, if they mention it at all. I'm willing to entertain the possibility that they know the pros and cons of this issue better than I do.

Conclusion: I have no conclusion. Marketing and packaging is a complex problem with changeable answers. If you're with a good publishing house, the expertise they bring to that problem is one of the most valuable benefits you get from going with them. Also, if you're with a legit trade house, odds are your contract says that marketing and packaging are the publisher's call. If that's what you're looking at, grin and bear it.

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