The Nerve: Memoirs of a Trans Woman is an autobiographical memoir depicting the real-life
struggles and triumphs of Imani Singh, a transgender woman. Focusing on her trials and
tribulations, The Nerve gives us a raw look at Singh's exploration of gender identity and sexuality
as she details various painful aspects of her life as a trans woman.
Singh begins the book by recounting various moments of childhood trauma, from being molested at the age of four to experiencing gender dysphoria in first grade, household domestic violence, and struggles with religion,
parental abandonment, abuse, and substance use. Singh also describes the confusing experience
of going through male puberty as someone who feels female.
As Singh moves into adulthood, we are allowed to witness her stages of coming out: first as
bisexual, then as gay, then as trans. We are provided a glimpse into the exciting world of drag
and ballroom culture, and Singh also discusses the difficulties in being a transgender nurse,
including the presence of employment discrimination and workplace bullying.
Singh recounts in brutal honesty her battles with mental illness by illustrating her life with
bipolar disorder, including varying states of suicidal depression and risk-taking mania. She also
offers an explicit look at her love affairs including a detailed analysis of the trans-attracted man.
The Nerve: Memoirs of a Trans Woman is a gut-wrenching tale filled with both pain and light-
hearted humor that is guaranteed to make you appreciate and celebrate the trans experience.
