Alison Li is an historian of science and medicine. She writes about hormones and the culture in which they are shaped. Her latest work is Wondrous Transformations available now from University of North Carolina Press.
I’ve been hoping for a long time that somebody would write this book. Alison Li has produced a highly readable, authoritatively researched biography of Harry Benjamin, whose contributions to transgender medicine are not as widely known as they should be. A much-needed corrective.
Susan Stryker, Author of Transgender History
Wondrous Transformations is the story of Dr. Harry Benjamin (1885-1986), endocrinologist and sexologist best known for his contributions to transgender medicine. Read more
“A smart and readable contribution to transgender studies.” – Publishers Weekly
“This thoughtful, thoroughly researched history provides a foundation and a lens through which to better understand contemporary issues of gender identity….Recommended.” – Choice
Available now from your favourite bookseller. Use discount code 01SOCIAL30 for a 30% discount at UNC Press.
Upcoming event
University of British Columbia, Vancouver
Date: Thursday, March 13, 2025
I have the honour of delivering the 2025 Stephen Straker Memorial Lecture for the Graduate Programme in Science and Technology Studies at the University of British Columbia. Stephen Straker (1942-2004) was a historian of science at UBC for thirty years and the chief inspiration for the creation of the STS program. This annual lecture was created to honour his memory.