Breathe

Breathe is a graphic guide to chest binding, combining real-life stories with research-backed advice. It is by Maia Kobabe, author of Gender Queer, and Sarah Peitzmeier, a professor at the University of Michigan.

The book grew out of a need for an evidence-based resource for people considering chest binding as gender-affirming care. It began as a 32-page digital-only 'zine. Peitzmeier and Kobabe then saw the chance to reach a wider audience with an expanded edition, with more art and a deeper look at what research actually shows about binding, designed to read easily in print.

To make it, Peitzmeier and her research team interviewed dozens of people of different ages and backgrounds about their experiences with binding. She and Kobabe combined excerpts from those interviews with evidence-based information on the practice.

The result is a practical resource for trans and nonbinary people. It is also meant for any reader interested in the journey of expressing gender in ways that are joyful, healthy and affirming.