Raising Ryland

Our Story of Parenting a Transgender Child with No Strings Attached

De: Hillary Whittington

Narrado por: 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 firsthand 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 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 41 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.

©2015 Hillary Whittington (P)2016 HarperCollins Publishers

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 It!

Thank you for sharing your story. I watched the video when it started to go viral and I was so moved by Ryland and your family. He is such an amazing boy and we are all truly blessed to have him in this world. Thank you Ryland for embracing who you are and showing others what compassion and tolerance is.

Whoa

Definitely a trail blazing family. His story has been a reminder that we are all different. You have to be true to yourself. I wish him the best.

Amazing story

Heartwarming story of a parents love,acceptance and support for their child. A must read

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.

Heart warming & raw

I can’t possibly express how this story has touched me.
As a mother of a transgender child I applaud the love, strength & insight you showed in dealing with your life. Many of us are searching for answers, support, & a direction to go that is best for our children. You opening up about your story has done exactly that.
God bless you today & forever,

An inspiring story of love and acceptance

I preordered this book and listened to it in one day. There are so many lessons we can all learn and apply to life regardless of our individual situations. I wish this family all the best in life to come. I thank them for their bravery and openness on a topic that society is painfully slow to accept. I feel honored to have heard their story and I strongly recommend every person take this very special opportunity to listen to this incredible book.

To the Whittington family- Thank you. As a SLP student I am so glad you included Ryland's journey from the very beginning. Your family is a wonderful example for the world to follow. Thank you for your honesty and candor about the most difficult, personal challenges as individuals, a couple, parents, and a family.
If you are ever in Cleveland, Ohio, there is a safe place for your family.
-Ella W.