Kai Ash

It's publication week for Someone Like Me!

Edited by Clem Bastow and Jo Case and published by UQP, this is an anthology of Autistic women and gender diverse writers that I'm thrilled to be part of.

#SomeoneLikeMe #UQP #AusLit #OzLit #ActuallyAutistic #TransLit

Mar 5, 2025 at 9:21pmWeb
Show threadKai AshMar 5, 2025

My piece is a message to my 10-year-old self, growing up at a time when being identified as Autistic may have denied him gender affirming care. Unfortunately, this form of discrimination is again rising in popularity.

In my writing, I try to lean towards the positive, to spread hope. But this piece was written at a time when I was struggling.

But that’s all right. We’re allowed to struggle, to not be okay, as long as we don’t let it stop us from living.

I am in pain. And still I choose joy.

Show threadgussetingApr 24
@kai_ash might you have you heard of any further authors quitting #UQP due to their recent decision to pulp an indigenous book?
Anything from Clem?
https://mastodon.social/@peterjriley2024/116452476456592792
Show threadKai AshApr 24
@gusseting I have not heard anything connected to Someone Like Me and have no additional information beyond what has been shared by others on social media. UQP's decision to pulp Jazz Money's book Bila is extraordinary in all the worst ways and I deeply admire the principled stance taken by so many writers in response.
Show threadgussetingApr 24
@kai_ash Thanks so much for letting me know. I admire them too - it takes some major principles and chutzpah to turn your back on a publisher like Evelyn Araluen in particular, who has a bestseller with them.