My Body Is Distant: A Memoir

Maylott’s gripping debut memoir covers her gender transition, divorce, and experiments with online relationships in thrillingly nonlinear fashion. Shortly after marrying her now ex-wife Karen in the aughts, Maylott began to understand she was a woman. Coming to that conclusion meant a somewhat contentious divorce and a bumpy road toward transition, which she recounts here with bracing honesty. In the midst of her divorce and her coming-out, Maylott was diagnosed with colon cancer, and—following a permanent colostomy—dipped her toes into online BDSM clubs, striking up a flirtation and eventual relationship with a man in Texas who called himself Kali. When their connection fizzled, Maylott worried she may never find love again before meeting her current partner, Sarah, whose steadfast support lends the memoir its beating heart. It’s near impossible not to cheer Maylott on as she navigates hurdles and judgments on her way to self-actualization. Along the way, she forges some fascinating links between gender identity and the construction of a digital persona. This will buoy readers facing similar challenges and offer invaluable guidance to their allies.Agent: Chelen Knight, Transatlantic. (Sept.)