John Colapinto's As Nature Made Him is lauded for its gripping and empathetic exploration of identity and medical ethics. It excels in storytelling and extensive research, yet some criticize its heavy reliance on dramatic elements over scientific analysis. Nonetheless, it offers a crucial perspective on the complexities of gender identity and medical interventions.

As Nature Made Him by John Colapinto appeals to readers interested in psychology, gender studies, and medical ethics. Comparable to Middle Sex by Jeffrey Eugenides and The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat by Oliver Sacks, it attracts those who enjoy compelling narratives about human identity and the complexities of nature versus nurture.

As Nature Made Him by John Colapinto recounts the story of David Reimer, who was raised as a girl named Brenda following a botched circumcision, under the guidance of sexologist Dr. John Money. David transitions back to a male identity during his teenage years after Dr. Milton Diamond exposes the flaws in Money’s theory of psychosexual neutrality at birth, challenging prevailing medical practices and beliefs about gender identity. The book discusses sensitive topics such as medical trauma, gender identity, and mental health struggles.

Informative / Mysterious / Dark / Unnerving / Emotional

- John Colapinto's As Nature Made Him was first published in 2000, providing a detailed account of one of modern medical history's most controversial gender identity projects.
- The book has sparked discussions and debates about ethics in medical practices, particularly concerning the treatment and upbringing of intersex and transgender individuals.
- As Nature Made Him was a New York Times Notable Book, underscoring its impact and the recognition it received for its investigative reporting and narrative style.

**Bruce/Brenda/David Reimer**  
A child raised as a girl after a medical accident resulting in gender reassignment, who later reclaims male identity as David. Central to the case challenging the theory that gender can be socially assigned.

**Dr. John Money**  
A notable sex researcher known for his theory that gender can be nurtured through environment, who is largely responsible for managing Brenda/David's gender reassignment.

**Janet Reimer**  
Mother of Bruce and Brian, who is deeply involved in pursuing gender reassignment treatment for Bruce after his accident, and later confronts the emotional aftermath of these decisions.

**Ron Reimer**  
Father of the twins, Bruce and Brian, who supports Janet throughout the medical journey and eventually reveals critical truths to Brenda.

**Brian Reimer**  
The twin brother of Bruce/Brenda/David, who experiences his own challenges but supports his sibling's transition later in life.

**Dr. Keith Sigmundson**  
A psychiatrist in Brenda's early adolescence who plays a role in introducing key professionals to help Brenda eventually transition back to David.

**Dr. Mary McKenty**  
A psychiatrist who aids in Brenda's realization of identity and supports the transition to David.

**Dr. Milton Diamond**  
A leading researcher opposing Dr. Money's theories by emphasizing biological factors in gender identity, collaborating with David to challenge previous claims.

**John Colapinto**  
A reporter meticulously documenting the complexities of David Reimer's life, striving to provide a balanced viewpoint of the case.

**Dr. Doreen Moggey**  
The first psychiatrist assigned to Brenda, initially adherent to Money’s treatment but develops skepticism over time.

**Dr. Janice Ingimundson**  
A psychiatrist working with Brenda who suggests an eventual truth revealing but exits for maternity leave before seeing it through.

**Dr. Sheila Cantor**  
Known for her direct approach, she briefly works with Brenda and immediately criticizes the gender reassignment.

**Dr. Howard Jones**  
A gynecologist who collaborates with Dr. Money, instrumental in the initial surgical procedures on Bruce.

**Heather LeGarry**  
Brenda’s first school friend who remains loyal and supportive despite their differences.

**Esther Haselhauer**  
A junior high friend of Brenda also outcast due to her own physical condition, sharing mutual respect without deep bonding due to differing interests.

John Colapinto

Adult

Biography

Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore As Nature Made Him and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

As Nature Made Him

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read As Nature Made Him?

Reading Age

Book Details