Cross Necklace

When Ben tells their parents they are nonbinary, Ben’s mother clutches the cross on her necklace. This is a strong symbol of her religious beliefs as they relate to sex and gender. During this tense moment between Ben and their parents, the cross necklace and her stronghold on it strongly illustrates how her reaction to Ben coming out as nonbinary is dictated by religion and religious belief. She says “God doesn’t want this for you, Ben” which further amplifies this harsh symbolism (142).

Ben’s Sketchbook

For Ben, drawing is a practice of refuge and relaxation from the rest of their life. When Mrs. Liu gives Ben a key to the art room so they can spend their lunches there, they feel a deep sense of relaxation and calm. This relationship Ben shares with their sketchbook symbolizes the deep potential value of art as...