The Art of Being Normal

Where it Came From

The Art of Being Normal is a young adult novel by Lisa Williamson, first published in 2015 by David Fickling Books. It was inspired by Williamson’s time working with young people exploring their gender identity in the UK’s NHS Gender Identity Development Service — a real-world setting that helped her shape a heartfelt and honest story about identity, acceptance, and self-discovery. The narrative alternates between two teenagers each with a secret about who they are, making space for empathy and courage as they find common ground. 

Where it Went Next

Since publication, The Art of Being Normal has become celebrated for its sensitive, uplifting portrayal of transgender teens and their friendships. It won the 2016 Waterstones Children’s Book Prize (Best Older Fiction) and a Leeds Book Award in the 14-16 category, and was shortlisted for other major UK prizes — recognitions that helped it reach young readers across schools and libraries. The story has been embraced as both a coming-of-age adventure and a conversation starter about identity, belonging, and what it means to live authentically. 

Associated Stories

If readers connect with the themes in The Art of Being Normal, they might enjoy other stories that explore identity, friendship, and self-discovery, such as:

• Boy Meets Boy by David Levithan — a joyful, inclusive romance.
• Asking For It by Louise O’Neill — a powerful teen drama.
• Paper Avalanche by Lisa Williamson — exploring family, secrets, and growing up with wit and heart. 

These books share a belief that growing up can be messy, funny, challenging, and ultimately beautifully human.