Jo Ivester is an author and speaker, focusing on LGBTQ & civil rights advocacy. Her books include the award-winning memoirs The Outskirts of Hope (2015) and Never a Girl, Always a Boy (2020). She addresses a wide range of audiences, from small book clubs to entire schools, using her personal stories as a means to make people more comfortable with those who are different from them with regard to race, religion, sexual orientation, and gender identification.

Praise for Never a Girl, Always a Boy

Annual Indie excellence Juror’s Choice Awards: Winner, LGBTQIA Non-Fiction category

“LGBTQ Books to Read During Pride Month”, USA Today

“24 Best Memoirs to Read in 2020,” Parade Magazine

2020 Next Generation Indie Book Awards Winner in LGBTQ and Parenting/Family Nonfiction

2020 International Book Awards, Finalist in LGBTQ Non-Fiction and Parenting & Family

“Highly empathetic, the story captures Jeremy’s experience vividly. The result is another fine contribution to the growing body of transgender literature.”
―Booklist

“…a heartwarming story that anyone with a complicated life and identity can relate to. A multifaceted, rich, and moving exploration of the trans experience.”
―Kirkus Reviews

“An important purchase both for its heartwarming demonstration of a family’s unconditional love and for effective advocacy for transgender individuals . . . a model for other families searching for acceptance and ways to support their loved one’s transition journey.”
―Library Journal

Get to Know Jo
The Outskirts of Hope
Never a Girl, Always a Boy
Advocacy Work
Jo’s Blog
Invite Jo to Speak