Jess, Chunk, and the Road Trip to Infinity

Gr 9 Up—Jess and her best friend Christopher (also known as Chuck or Chunk) are taking a road trip to attend Jess's father's wedding. The trouble is, the last time Jess saw her father, she identified as male. And at the time, her father made it clear that he wasn't happy with her decision to transition. While Jess hadn't planned on attending the wedding, when your best friend proposes a road trip that will take the better part of the summer, how can you say no? As if transitioning the summer before leaving for college isn't enough, the long drive gives Jess and Chunk ample time to reflect on their lives, their futures, and their feelings. While the road unwinds before them, Jess and Chunk learn about themselves and, ultimately, their limitless possibilities. The ending is a bit too tidy, and the issue of fat-shaming is not well addressed, but for many teens struggling with the complicated challenges related to gender identity and transitioning, the story provides a positive message of hope. Transgender actress Michelle Hendley turns in a solid and believable performance as Jess.