This book had me saying, "oh my!" over and over again (something I don't recall from other John Irving novels I've read). Outrageous and sometimes a bit over the top, yet this novel really opened up my eyes and gave me a lot of perspective and historical background. As another reviewer said, "it reminds us how we've all got our problems and that dignity isn't something that's just handed to you." I was drawn in to some of the main characters and the novel really showed their "heartbreakingly human sides". I can't help but think that the main character actually had some decent support from close family members and in reality a lot of transgender and LGBTQ youth may not have this support and guidance. This makes me sad and concerned. The play within a play aspect was interesting and had me wishing I was more familiar with Great Expectations, as I think I may have missed an extra layer or two. Maybe an assignment for a future read...