Becoming Nicole

Why does Wyatt react so strongly when Jonas gets his way? What does this say about Wyatt’s relationship with himself, especially the way he looks?

Share two to three examples of how Nutt portrays Kelly as a heroine in Becoming Nicole, and explain how her own upbringing helped her develop an approach to parenting that helps Wyatt/Nicole remain resilient in the face of many challenges.

Why is Wyatt drawn to witches, such as the Wicked Witch of the West from The Wizard of Oz and Stormy from Winx Club?

Name some of the key ways Wyatt/Nicole and Jonas differ from one another. How do their differences help them help and understand one another?

Why do the Maineses decide to keep Nicole’s transgender identity a secret when they move to Portland, and what are some of the consequences of this decision?

Discuss two moments from the story that help the Maines family see how their lawsuit matters not only for Nicole but for other transgender people struggling to get the freedom they need to define and protect themselves.

What are some of Nicole’s greatest fears about hormone therapy and sex reassignment surgery? How does she move past these fears and decide to go forward with these treatments?

Wayne is deeply moved by a speech Lady Gaga gives about the military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy. Why do you think this might be, and what does it say about the transformation he has gone through during his journey to accept Nicole?