Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

This book is ideal for that age group where they need to know about periods and their changing bodies but discussing details about sex and other adult topics would be inappropriate. This book does not handle the topic of sex. This book is specific to the changes of puberty in regards to friendships and hygiene. I wanted to write a review because some reviews stated that this book is graphic and made the adult writing the reviews uncomfortable. I want to be clear that this book does not contain anything sexual or something that is not appropriate for a child 10-12 years old. The illustrations in the book regarding breasts and genitals are a VERY basic cartoon illustration to show anatomical parts, how to insert a tampon, and perform a breast exam. It uses no sexual words and only scientific terms. I think it’s worth noting that any child who reads this book and sees the diagram can just as easily look in a mirror and see the same parts. I find it highly suspect and strange that a parent would give this instructional book a negative review or be uncomfortable with their child seeing a diagram of their own body parts. Throughout the book there are tips and advice on hygiene, maintaining friendships, having mature conversations with parents, staying healthy, not giving in peer pressure, and doing well in school in spite of the trials of puberty. Throughout the book it encourages the reader to get guidance from trusted adults if they are confused or worried about something they don’t understand. One important section of the book is about pressure from friends during visits and sleepovers to do things they aren’t allowed to do at home or things that are not age appropriate and it gives wonderful advice on what to do in these situations. This book is a valuable resource for growing children and I recommend purchasing prior to puberty, especially if you already have the first Care and Keeping of You. This book is similar, it’s just more informative to a slightly older age group. After this book I highly recommend The Period Book and the other American Girl books about self care and mental health. At this age kids are very sensitive and dealing with friendships and peer pressure and those books give very wise advice.