Summary

In Chapter 15, Mock recounts the last months before her surgery when she saw countless clients. The community of transwomen on Merchant Street is supportive and they help one another avoid being arrested by undercover cops and offer tips and aid when needed. She lists her average wages: “$600 to $1,000 a weekend, giving $60 blow jobs, $40 hand jobs, and $20 to $40 upgrades (if they wanted to see, touch, or suck my penis)” (206). Mock discusses how despite the reality that men are attracted to transwomen who have penises, transwomen’s bodies are often shamed, devalued, and objectified. Her regulars are kind to her, but sometimes new clients are cruel, one man even mugging and hurting her. Meanwhile, Mock continues to excel academically, thriving in her college courses during the day, while working the streets at night.

In Chapter 16, desperate for the remaining money to cover the...