Raising Ryland

Our Story of Parenting a Transgender Child with No Strings Attached

By: Hillary Whittington

Narrated by: Hillary Whittington

This powerful, moving story—which has already touched more than seven million through a viral video created by the Whittington family—is a mother’s first-hand account of her emotional choice to embrace her transgender child.

When Hillary and Jeff Whittington posted a YouTube video chronicling their five-year-old son Ryland’s transition from girl to boy, they didn’t expect it to be greeted with such fervor. Beautiful and moving, the video documenting Hillary’s and Jeff’s love for their child instantly went viral and has been seen by more than seven million viewers since its posting in May 2014.

Now for the first time, they tell their story in full, offering an emotional and moving account of their journey alongside their exceptional child. After they discovered their daughter Ryland was deaf at age one and needed cochlear implants, the Whittingtons spent nearly four years successfully teaching Ryland to speak. But once Ryland gained the power of speech, it was time for them to listen as Ryland insisted, “I am a boy!” And listen they did. After learning that forty-one percent of people who identify as transgender attempt to take their own lives, Hillary and her husband Jeff made it their mission to support their child—no matter what.

From the earliest stages of deciphering Ryland through clothing choices to examining the difficult conversations that have marked every stage of Ryland’s transition, Hillary Whittington shares her experiences as a mother through it all, demonstrating both the resistance and support that their family has encountered as they try to erase the stigma surrounding the word “transgender.” In telling her family’s story, she hopes she can assist the world in accepting that even children as young as five, can have profound and impactful things to say and share. What emerges is a powerful story of unconditional love, accepting others for who they are, and doing what’s right, regardless of whether those around you understand it.

Heartfelt story about an awesome accepting family

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes..it was just a great real story about a real family.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Raising Ryland?

The acceptance of their child as is. I know it was hard for them at first.

What does Hillary Whittington bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Her own voice. Telling the family's story just like it is. Very real.

Please Read This Book

Listen to this family’s experience. Consider what they are saying. Set aside preconceived notions or what you have been told. Love and support and understanding literally can save lives. Highly recommend this book!

Must read

Everyone needs to read this book it will open your eyes and your heart. I was riveted right from the beginning.

LOVED THIS BOOK.

I HAVE A FAMILY MEMBER WHO IS TRANSGENDER. THAT PERSON ONLY CAME OUT IN THEIR 40'S.
I APPRECIATED THE INSIGHT IN THIS BOOK.

I loved it!

This was a powerful heartwarming book. I felt like it gave a real understanding to some unknown issues. I definetly recommend it.