Synopsis

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Tiposi Finds their Wings is a coming-of-age story that follows Tiposi, a young gender non-conforming person navigating the complexities of identity, societal expectations, and the turbulence of living in a conflict-ridden region. The novel explores Tiposi’s emotional and physical journey from childhood to adolescence, set against the backdrop of armed conflict.

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The opening chapter introduces Tiposi’s discomforts with gender roles and rituals surrounding menstruation. As tragedy strikes their village with the killing of a young man, Tiposi’s world too comes crashing down as they experience their first period. Supported by their understanding mother, Aai, and their teacher Miss Junaki, Tiposi faces the challenging transition of growing up, while grappling with the painful realities of loss and societal expectations. 

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In the second story Tiposi is inspired by overhearing a conversation about a new football team and  decides to try out. Despite establishing their talent on the field they face resistance due to their gender. With the support of Miss Junaki, and the eventual backing of the coach and Aai, Tiposi defies societal norms and secures a spot on the football team.

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Tiposi’s journey continues as they work to gain acceptance on the football team as well as the new school. With the encouragement of their family, friends, and community, Tiposi pushes forward, even as they face mounting struggles, including concerns about their safety and their family’s financial strain. Ultimately, the support of those around them allows Tiposi to participate in a district-level tournament, reinforcing the themes of perseverance and the importance of collective support.

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In the final chapter, Tiposi travels to a city for the first time for a sports tournament, where they meet Joy, a player from an opposing team. Their friendship blossoms during the brief but meaningful encounter, as they share their experiences of identity, self-expression and freedom. Though the tournament is interrupted by violence, Tiposi returns to their village with a renewed sense of hope and connection, cherishing the bond they share with Joy and the conversations that helped them reflect on their own identity. The novel concludes with Tiposi receiving a letter from Joy, reaffirming their enduring connection and promising to stay in touch.

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Tiposi Finds their Wings is a tender, thought-provoking exploration of identity, belonging, freedom and resilience. It is a testament to the strength of allyship, the power of self-discovery, and the journey of growing up in a world that is often hostile to difference.

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Artist's statement

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Tiposi Finds Their Wings is the story I wish I had read as a young gender non-conforming child growing up in a region ridden with armed conflict. Growing up in such an environment meant that adults around me had too many concerns to focus on—bandhs, curfews, violence, security, environmental disasters and poverty. For a child who didn’t fit into the prescribed molds of gender, this context often led to feelings of isolation. The world felt too chaotic to be understood.

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This story is more than just a coming-of-age tale; it is a journey of self-discovery, the search for belonging, and the power of friendship and allyship. Tiposi’s experience reflects the struggles many young people face, particularly those who do not conform to society’s rigid expectations of gender. It is my hope that this book will resonate with young readers who are grappling with their own identities in environments that may not be accepting, where societal norms often feel suffocating.

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Beyond personal identification, Tiposi Finds Their Wings is also an attempt to foster empathy among young readers, helping them understand the diverse experiences of gender identity and the impacts of living in conflict zones. The book highlights the resilience of youth in the face of adversity, illustrating how friendship, love, and solidarity can be transformative forces. At its core, the story is about freedom—how it is defined, how it evolves, and how it is shaped by context. Whether it’s the freedom to be oneself, the freedom to live and grow and the freedom to provide support to our loved ones,  the idea of freedom runs like a thread throughout Tiposi’s journey.

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This story also aims to speak to parents and mentors who are guiding young people through the complexities of societal expectations. By sharing Tiposi’s story, I hope to spark understanding and empathy, not just among young readers, but also within families and communities, as they help their children grow into sensitive individuals.

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Ultimately, this book is about hope despite the struggles we face, there is always the possibility of finding our wings.

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About the artist

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Diti (Pronouns: He/They) is a queer transmasculine researcher, writer and activist. Diti strongly believes that their research and activism are intrinsic to each other and uses their writings to express, process and protest. After a post PhD plot twist Diti has found solace in the enchanting world of fiction. Diti finds joy in doodling, exploring the world, savoring diverse cuisines, crocheting through their anxieties and embracing the warmth of a perfect cup of chai.​

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