I found myself wishing this was in a graphic novel format to appeal to transgender children between nine and twelve who might be uncomfortable picking up a picture book. I love this story and think it will attract older readers, especially those on the brink of puberty who are concerned with their changing bodies. Julep is eventually able to help a fairy from a different community in a similar situation. Julep eventually binds their wings and creates a pair of gauntlets they use to tend the tree’s roots. After some discussion, the elders agree to allow Julep to work with the goblins. Julep surprises the community by lining up with the goblins. After Julep and their cohort of fairies and goblins have physically matured, they start training to care for the tree. When Julep matures, they begin to grow wings like a fairy, but in their heart, Julep is a goblin. Fairies and goblins even have different diets. Fairies grow wings when they come of age and use their wings to tend to the tree’s leaves. Goblins grow claws when they come of age and use their claws to tend to the tree’s roots. In Julep’s community fairies and goblins care for a big beautiful tree. Goblinheart: A Fairy Tale (2012), written by Brett Axel and illustrated by Terra Bidlespacher, is an allegory of transgender experience told through the story of a goblin named Julep. ( Leave a comment ) Brett Axel’s Goblinheart: A Fairy Tale (2012).
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