A cultural history of the Kathoey (Ladyboys), their role in Thai society and a biographical account of three kathoey and their lives. It is an description of the kathoey as they were traditionally received in Asian and Buddhist society and the changes brought about by Western tourism to the area, specifically the sex industry that has developed in Thailand. An accessible and fascinating description of a wide range of subjects: including the Buddhist concept of karma and sexuality, the biological consequences of trans-gender (why were a Thai basketball team all ladyboys?) and a history of trans-gender in other cultures around the world. Are the Kathoey a deviation or a third sex?