Sworn Virgin

In Albania, women are expected to get married and raise children. However, the law permits unmarried women to become "sworn virgins" and act as a man. They take a male name and dress like men. They are allowed to get a man's job and can socialize with other men. When the uncle who raised her is on his deathbed, Hana Doda decides to become a "sworn virgin" so that she can inherit and take care of her uncle's property. Hana lives for years as Mark Doda. However, she eventually moves to the United States and reclaims her identity as a woman. This is an interesting tale that explores gender identities. Hana is not transgender, but much of the novel explores the impact that living as a man has had on her life.