nonfic recs for enneagram types pt.1

if you don’t know which number you are, take the test here!

1 the perfectionist

Outrageous! by Paul Baker

Let’s go queer history! In this part-memoir, part-historical deep-dive, Baker explores the story of Section 28 (the ’88 law that stifled LGBT education in Britain) and our journey towards repealing the law in the following years. This journey includes interviews with legendary LGBTQ+ activists, transcriptions from politicians during debates and a plethora of press articles, images and campaigns that shaped the way the public viewed the protests. I think my ones will love Baker’s approach to this topic, he leaves no research-shaped stone unturned while never shying away from getting personal about this formative time in our recent history.

2 the helper

The Transgender Issue by Shon Faye

For my twos, a fucking masterpiece. In this compelling and extensive analysis of our transphobic society, Faye explores what it means to be a trans individual in Britain. This comprehensive manifesto for reform will help cis people be more helpful to our trans peers, arming us with the knowledge and vocabulary to bring about trans liberation which, as Faye details expertly in the book, means liberation for us all. Faye has been so incredibly generous with her time and energy in researching and reclaiming this ‘issue’ just like my altruistic twos. I think you babes will love it.

3 the achiever

All Boys Aren’t Blue by George M. Johnson

Threes, get ready to be blown away by this trailblazer of a memoir. Now a journalist and LGBTQIAP+ activist, Johnson details their formative years growing up Black and queer with formidable grace and candour. They are unflinching in their reflections, covering topics such as the pervasiveness of toxic masculinity while exploring your queerness and gender identity, and how these challenges intersect with being Black and American. Johnson bears their fucking soul in this book, empowering their young, Black, queer readers and ensuring that white people like me better understand the Black queer experience. I think my competent, driven threes will admire Johnson’s seminal work.

4 the individualist

Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner

My babe Michelle is a four and that’s okay!! there’s nothing wrong with wanting to make your unique mark on the world!!!

When her mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer, Zauner was forced to reflect on their fraught relationship and, by extension, her ever-distant Korean identity. In this forthright and highly emotional memoir, Zauner explores the vibrant smells, tastes and sounds so intrinsically linked to her mother and the rest of her Korean family. My creative fours will love the inimitable way in which Zauner tells her story, and you’ll probably love reading about her rise to musical stardom too.

listen to Japanese Breakfast now!!

stay tuned for part two!

information on the enneagram types gleaned from here and here!