Without a doubt, this book is one that every parent/carer of an LGBTQIA+ child should get after their child has taken the brave step to talk to them. It will help break down fears, provide explanations, and give the reader the support to aid their child in any way that is needed.

I liked that whilst providing information, the chapters are far from overwhelming so that you won't feel like you're drowning in information whilst still processing emotion and the ‘where do we go now?’ Each chapter has a brief set of questions that can help the reader break down both what they've read and how they may be feeling at that point. 

The author, John Sovec, is a therapist who works with families of LGBTQIA+ children, so his information you're provided with is taken from years of experience. His way of explanation is compassionate and comprehensive as it comes to the discussion of the various ways a child will come out, whether in regard to gender identity and/or sexual orientation. 

As a parent of two transgender boys, I have been there alongside their journey of both their gender identity and their sexual orientation. Whilst it was somewhat easier than it could have been because we are accepting of our children and I myself am nonbinary? Mistakes were made, and that's natural, and no parent should break themselves apart because of it. I do wish there had been a book such as ‘Out’ just to try and catch ourselves before we made them or doubt their identity with those dreaded words ‘Is it a phase?’ (I'll preempt a read and say to you - don't say that to your child.)

Above all, this book will give you the facts, the phrases, and the support you will need. You will make mistakes, and you will struggle, and you will mourn for the maybe, and all of this is explained succinctly and gently. There is a constant that is so true. The author will remind you that you need to listen to your child and you need to love them just as much as you did before and to be kind. That sounds obvious, but it's good to be reminded by someone who has seen countless people come through the process of a child coming out and discovering themselves.

Out is exceptional. It's a book that's been needed and wanted for a long time, and I highly recommend it to every adult whose child is LGBTQIA+. It should be available to anyone in childcare, education, and therapy and suggested to anyone as the default guide to be the best you can when your child needs you.

Thank you, John Sovec, for writing this for every LGBTQIA+ child who needs their parents/guardians to be their protector and first line of support.