Age Range: 9 and up
Hardcover: 90 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers; Possible First edition (June 1988)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0688069274
ISBN-13: 978-0688069278
Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 6.3 x 0.5 inches
Shipping Weight: 10.6 ounces
Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (16 customer reviews)
Best Sellers Rank: #1,839,886 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #103 in Books > Children's Books > Growing Up & Facts of Life > Health > Sexuality #439 in Books > Children's Books > Growing Up & Facts of Life > Difficult Discussions > Abuse #57778 in Books > Children's Books > Literature & Fiction
I bought this, along with several similar books, for my 11 year-old son. The Q&A format of this book made it easy to read, but many topics were handled in a clinical, vague manner and spent way too much time on trivial subjects (e.g., a whole chapter on "Crushes.") I actually checked the copyright, to see if it was written in the '50's. (It's 1988.) I was very troubled by the section, "What Happens if a Young Girl Gets Pregnant?" It ignored the boy's role & responsibility, and glossed over the topic with vague statements such as: "Her whole life will change, and not usually for the better." And, "She may feel upset for a long time afterward." There's even a section, "Why Would a Girl Let Herself Get Pregnant?" which suggests "Sometimes a girl secretly wants to get pregnant..." The section ends with: "The surest way to prevent pregnancy is not to have intercourse." I found a much better book for my son: "What's Going on Down There." Silly title, but much more thorough, balanced and practical.
I bought this book hoping to have an early broad conversation about sexuality with my 9 year old boy and found this book to be too detailed for someone that young. The illustrations are over-simplified and may be good for younger kids, but it doesn't jibe with the text which is more complex and biologically, fact-based. A great book- but I found I have to leave it on the shelf for another year or so. I don't think most 9-year olds will get this stuff yet so I'd advise you to hold off buying this unless you have an exceptionally mature child of this age. I'm sure it will be an excellent reference at 10 or 11.
This is a question-and-answer book which covers much of the same ground "It's Perfectly Normal" and other books for pre-teens, and would be unexceptional if the questions weren't so good. The authors assume their readers know the basics about pregnancy and doesn't bother with much detail; it focuses instead on puberty in boys and girls, masturbation, having crushes, pregnancy, homosexuality, and one chapter entitled "The Most Important Thing to Know About Sex" (to respect yourself and others). There's an excellent chapter on teen pregnancy. This quiet, unassuming book with non-graphic pictures is an excellent choice for kids who don't ask many questions about sex - and for parents who are uncertain how to answer them (also look see "Sex is More Than A Plumbing Lesson"). An added bonus - your kids may recognize the illustrator from Beverly Cleary's Ramona Quimby books.
I have used this book many times, checking it out from the library multiple times until I finally bought it. It is short, simple and covered alot of information. This book is nonjudgemental and opens up dialogue in a relaxing way.
This book goes into explanations that are clear tounderstand for the average 7-12 year old. The book isoutlined in specific sections in a question and answer layout.
As a mother and a teacher, I appreciate Cole's sensitivity and frankness with a difficult subject. I am afraid, however, that the adolescent audience for whom the book is intended will be distracted by the many graphic illustrations. This is unfortunate because the book has many good things to say. I especially appreciated the chapters on AIDS/STDs and sexual abuse. Children need this information. I would like to see this book reprinted with fewer illustrations. Descriptions will often suffice as children have vivid imaginations!
I had this book when my girls were younger. After the multiple proverbial "birds and bees" conversations with them. I found this book in a bookstore and made it part of my library at home. I have NEVER been shy of discussing truths about physical, personal, and interpersonal relationships with my children as my parents were with me. I have several multi-tier books shelves with all types of books in various genres ranging from various religions, theology, computer technologies, self-improvement, college courses, medical studies, paranormal studies, fairy tales, puzzles/mind games, science, survival skills, mysteries, young adult reading, Edgar Allan Poe, Poor Richard's Almanac, Presidents...you name it!Well, I let a friend use the book-in-question for her kids (after I had explained how I and my children used it). I never got it back! She moved away and that was that! I was lucky enough to find it on again and re-purchased it. This time my grandchildren are at the age "of inquiry" and asking questions. Deja Vu!The book has only "necessary" pictures (cartoon-like IN black and white); is easy to read and understand; and not overbearing, intrusive, or embarrassing for later discussion, if needed. It boots what was discussed with more detailed understanding and visuals. I understood the initial "tee-hee" and giggle; however, it was quickly explained that I would rather they hear and discuss it in our home to know the truth about their developing bodies and relationships that out in the streets. Also, when they did hear or see things on television, radio, books, papers, or in the street they would be able to let it pass (knowing proper terminology and definitions) or turn the conversation into a positive and educational one. My advice...GET THIS BOOK!
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