11 books that star trans and non-binary characters in epic fantasy and sci-fi adventures

"The Black Tides of Heaven" and "The Red Threads of Fortune" by Jy Yang.Tor

• J.K. Rowling has been widely criticized for a series of tweets and a subsequent statement in which she argued that trans activism negates the experiences of cis women — tarring the "Harry Potter" saga for some.
• But beyond Hogwarts, there's a treasure-trove of fantasy and sci-fi stories that star trans and non-binary protagonists.
• From fearless superheroes to master assassins, these characters explore their individual identities while embarking on epic adventures.
• These are 11 books that feature trans and non-binary characters doing magic and starring in their own stories.

J.K. Rowling sparked a Twitterstorm of criticism after suggesting that trans activism negates the experiences of cis women.

Rowling's words have sadly tainted the "Harry Potter" series for many fans, some of whom have even crossed out the author's name on their books.

But beyond Hogwarts, readers can find a vast variety of fantasy and sci-fi stories starring trans and non-binary characters in classic adventures about superheroes, alien invasions, and of course, witches and wizards.

Many of the writers behind these books are trans, or part of the LGBTQ community. Their stories feature characters from diverse backgrounds who identify across the gender spectrum.

From Rich Larson's post-apocalyptic thriller "Annex", to mythical romance "When the Moon Was Ours" by Anna-Marie McLemore and yes, even the strega witches and wizards in Amy Rose Capetta's Italian-inspired historical fantasy "The Brilliant Death", there's a story to satisfy every sci-fi and fantasy fan.

Whether you're looking for rich fantasy, lyrical fairy-tales or gritty dystopian sci-fi, these are 11 mythical and magical stories that star trans and non-binary characters.