Jennifer Finney Boylan is an acclaimed American author, transgender activist, and professor. She is well-regarded for her groundbreaking work in transgender literature and advocacy. Born on June 22, 1958, Boylan has established herself as a prominent voice in contemporary discussions about gender and human rights.
Boylan's literary contributions are diverse, encompassing memoirs, novels, and short stories. Her memoir, She's Not There: a Life in Two Genders, published in 2003, is notable for being one of the first bestselling works by a transgender American. Edward Albee praised her work, noting, "Boylan observes carefully, and with love. Her levitating wit is wisely tethered to a humane concern... I often broke into laughter, and was now and again, struck with wonder."
Aside from her writing, Boylan has been an influential figure in various advocacy groups. She has served on the board of trustees of PEN America and GLAAD, and she has contributed to public discourse through her work as a contributing opinion writer for the New York Times. Her commitment to education is reflected in her roles at Barnard College of Columbia University, the Breadloaf Writers' Conference, and the Sirenland Writers' Conference.
Boylan's recent works include the memoir Good Boy: My Life in 7 Dogs, and she has collaborated with Jodi Picoult on the novel Mad Honey. Her significant media presence includes appearances on shows like the Oprah Winfrey Show and Live with Larry King, as well as advisory roles on series such as Transparent. She resides in New York City and Belgrade Lakes, Maine, with her wife, Deedie, and their two children, Sean and Zai.