Book Description

Yo-wee-o! In a milestone picture book, author-illustrator Judith Byron Schachner brings us an inspiring story about making dreams come true, seasoned with a hearty helping of heroic Viking history and lore.

Emma is excited as she starts to read about Erik the Red for a school report on world explorers. The excitement grows to epic proportions when she sets her sights on obtaining a real Viking ship. With a tinfoil helmet, a fighting spirit, and the help of a kindly librarian, she hatches a plan . . . and amazes her entire town when an authentic, dragon-prowed ship arrives in her backyard!

Rich with details and humor in art and text, this is a tale about the magic of discovery and how far imagination, fueled by knowledge, can take one determined little girl. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Wonderful read aloud!
I am a teacher for an after school program for elementary students. I read this book to my students and they loved it! The illustrations are wonderful. We made paper Viking Longboats afterwords. They couldn't wait to make their boats and they are still asking for books on Vikings.

Awe and wonder
Emma lives in a world of wonder that the cynics and realists have not destroyed. Wonder is a marvelous land of believing where even the adults are wizards and mages. Like Joseph Campbell's hero, Emma is on a mythic adventure. Her quest wins her knowledge, friends, and a gift of epic proportions.

A school assignment on world discoverers expands Emma's universe. She plunders the library, gathers knowledge and soon she becomes Emma the Red, Viking explorer. Yo, Vikings! is a celebration of story telling both oral and written. Emma hears stories from Mr. Sigurd, the children's librarian, and he directs her to the old tales of Norse history and mythology. She reads stacks of books, then takes notes and draws pictures illustrating what she is learning. She then enthralls her younger brother with stories of dragons, Viking longships , and sword fights.

Judith Byron Schachner's tale introduces some major heroes and gods of Norse history and mythology. For her school report, Emma learns about Erik the Red's journey to Greenland and about his son, Leif Eriksson. Emma is proud to report that Leif came to North America 500 years before Christopher Columbus. In story time, Mr. Sigurd, Emma's helper figure, tells the children of Sigurd, the strong and courageous Norse warrior, and his heroic fight against the dragon Fafnir. Mr. Sigurd does not mention the name of the hero. By looking carefully at Mr. Sigurd's book in the illustration, the reader will see that the dragon slaying hero's name is Sigurd. In her journal, Emma shows Sigurd holding a shield that says "librarian" as he fights the dragon Fafnir. The god Odin is introduced as a giver of gifts and riding his eight legged horse, though no mention is made of his grimmer, darker qualities.

Yo, Vikings! explores the childhood experiences of awe and wonder and is appropriate for ages about five to ten. The reader is invited to come along on an adventure with a young, female hero. Emma might hearten children, especially young girls, to learn and read for the joy of the adventure, just when girls need the encouragement. Interestingly, Judith Byron Schachner's fantastic story is a retelling of a family story; her daughter Emma actually did have a Viking ship in the back yard for a number of years. The truth in this story may lead other girls and boys to try new things, to learn for fun, and to believe in their dreams. Yo, Vikings! will inspire readers to do some exploring of Viking lore of their own at the library.

Judy lets children know that dreams can come true!!!!
I just bought this book today for my children. They loved it and so do I. I purchased it a book signing and Judy filled us in on the background for the story. My children's eyes got "as big as jelly donuts" and have learned sometimes you can get what you want. It is a very inspiring story. The illustrations are fantastic. Kids will enjoy picking out details from the pictures on each page. Thanks Judy for a wonderful story, pictures and inspiration. ... Read more

Book Description

Two women, one war.

Helen, at age twelve, is not prepared to deal with her famous beauty: to have the face that will launch a thousand ships, kill fifty thousand men, and cause the fall of the world's greatest city. But when she is kidnapped by Theseus of Athens, she begins her journey into womanhood and finds passion strong enough to start the Trojan War.

Cassandra has the gift, or curse, to predict the future. When she forsees the ruin of her family and city that Helen's arrival in Troy will cause, she is outraged. Yet she cannot help being drawn to Helen.

As the war rages around them, Helen, the woman who started the conflict, and Cassandra, the one who foresaw it, develop a deep friendship. And through their eyes we see the Trojan War in a fascinating new way. ... Read more

Reviews (127)

Inside the Walls of Troy--A beautifully written book!
In reading the book, Inside the Walls of Troy, I felt like I was really interacting with the characters. It was a beautifully written story on the Trojan War. Mrs. McLaren is a fantastic writer! In the book, Helen of Sparta is kidnapped at the age of 12, and begins to learn about her "place" in life. She becomes one of the most sought after girls in the world, and finally, Odysseus comes up with a plan to make sure that the "losers" don't rally against the "winner" in the battle over Helen. Thus, the Oath of the Horse is struck, and Helen is given to Menelaus. After several years of living with Menelaus, Helen has a daughter by the name of Hermione. When Hermione is four years old, Paris, a prince of Troy, comes to visit Menelaus. Helen and Paris fall in love with each other and after a few days, Helen leaves with him, on a ship bound for Troy. At this point, the story switches narrators, and becomes narrated by Cassandra, King Priam's daughter, who is a prophetess. Cassandra takes us through the rest of the book, and through the Trojan War. Although the book ends when the Cassandra, Polyxena, Laodice, Andromache and Astyanax are waiting in the temple of Athene, I feel like I have lived with these people all my life, and they are my best friends. Thank you Mrs. McLaren for writing this great and inspirational book!

Inside the Walls of Troy
"Inside the Walls of Troy" is the most wonderful action- filled, heart-touching book about the Greek times I have ever read .It is told by two very different Greek Princesses. The first part of the book is told by Helen of Sparta,who later becames Helen of Troy. Helen's story starts when she is declared the most beautiful, mortal women in all the world. At twelve she is kidnapped by pirates. When she is finally returned to her father, many men want her hand in marrige. Her father chooses a nobleman named Menelaus,who she is forced to marry. Soon after, Helen fell deeply in love with Menelaus'good friend named Paris and runs away to Troy with him. The second part of the book is told by Cassandra, Paris' sister. She tells about the war between Sparta and Troy .This war was fought because Paris would not give Helen back to her husband, Menelaus.If there was one thing I could change it would be to make the book longer. I loved it and recommend it highly.

Absolutely Wonderful
This book so great. I recommend this book to everyone. I am 15 years old and I watch a lot of movies. Especially Helen of Troy, and a lot with Vitamin C in it. YOUR #1 VC. Anyway this book is adventure with the Trojan War. I wish I can go back in time and take play of Helen or Cassandra. That would be spectacular.

Easy to fall in love with
This book was a spectacular adventure for me. It was very moving and I fell in love with many of the characters. I have read this book way to many times to count and yet I still cry when Hector cries. I love this particular take on the Trojan war and because of this book I have read many other takes and views on the Trojan war yet I still find this one to be the best. Troy comes out in May and even though Brad Pitt and Orlando Bloom is in this movie, I think I will be immensely disappointed because it is not focused on Helen or Cassandra.

Great introduction into one of history's most famous wars
Clemence McLaren transforms the mythical world of Homer's Trojan War into an easy-to-read story for kids and teenagers.

The book is written in first person point-of-view from the perspectives of two women (pictured on the cover): Helen of Troy and Cassandra, a skilled prophetess. Helen, a Spartan princess renowned as the most beautiful woman in the world, tells her story first. She relates how she was kidnapped by Theseus at age 12, married off to Menelaus upon her arrival back home, and later "kidnapped" again by a Trojan prince named Paris. This second kidnapping sparks the famous Trojan War, at which point the story switches to the viewpoint of Cassandra, a daughter of the Trojan King Priam and a prophetess whom no one but her brother believes. Cassandra takes over the narrative for the rest of the book, telling all about the events of the 10-year war and her role in them.

But Inside the Walls of Troy isn't just about the epic battles. McLaren also turns it into a tale of the fight for freedom and, basically, women's rights. Both Helen and Cassandra rebel against the traditional role of women at the time. Cassandra is especially opposed to getting married just for the sake of strengthening her father's political alliances, and she refuses to sit back and do nothing during the war. An extremely strong-willed character, she fights to protect those she cares about, even up to the very end when Troy burns. For young girls especially, Cassandra is a person one can relate to, since McLaren did an excellent job portraying her as a real multi-dimensional person.

However, there were several flaws in the book. For one thing, McLaren condensed the last few years of the war into only a few pages, making the ending seem rushed. And, besides Cassandra, there were no especially memorable figures. Even the other characters lacked some depth, including Helen. McLaren didn't really spend a lot of time talking about the other women who lived through the war, only mentioning them briefly. Helen and Cassandra were the only two main characters, and Helen came off looking like a brainless romantic ditz.

But despite these flaws, which to less critical readers may be all but undetectable, Inside the Walls of Troy is a treat. It's a great introduction into the world of Greek mythology because it presents a simplified version of the events of the Trojan War while bringing those legendary heroes to life. Well worth the money for any historical-fiction lover. ... Read more

Book Description

Sugar and spice and all that's nice? Not quite. It's tough to be a girl. Girls are mean to each other. Most girls will admit that they have been a victim of a mean girl. In fact, many will say that all girls are basically mean. Whether they're arguing about a boy, teasing a girl because of how she looks, or making up rumors to torment others, girls can be just plain ruthless.

This one-of-a-kind book can help end the cycle of meanness. Mean Girls is a call to spiritual strength. A call to stand firm. It calls girls to face the beasts in their lives head on. In short, it's the answer girls need for the problem they never thought could go away. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

These are great books
I've read all the Josefina books! They are great! If you have a daugter who is 6 and up and interested in different cultures Buy her Josefina books. They are a little over priced.

Change and Tradition
Josefina (pronounced "ho-sa-FEE-nah") is a nine year old Hispanic girl growing up on a large rancho in New Mexico in 1824. The first story opens up with Josefina and her three older sisters finding comfort in daily chores while thinking about Mama, who had died a year before. Then, Abuelo (Grandfather) returns from a trip to Mexico City, bringing with him Tia (Aunt) Dolores. From then on, Tia Dolores is the catalyst for change. The educated, independent young aunt brings new beliefs about a woman's role and challenges the more tradional role that Mama had played in the family. Fortunately, Tia Dolores is a wise and gentle teacher who teaches Josefina that learning new things or doing things differently does not mean forgetting the old. Memories of Mama can be found in learning to read and write, repairing her embroidered altar cloth, celebrating Christmas, and in learning to care for the family and household. Josefina learns that her heart can embrace her cultural traditions while her spirit flies free on the wind of personal, family, and cultural changes.

New Mexico Hispanic traditions and the historical lifestyle are accurately portrayed through Josefina's daily routines. The focus on Josefina and her world makes the stories relevant and interesting to the readers. Readers learn about laundry, cooking and baking, food choices, gardens, trips to the river for water, friendships, family roles, manners and codes of conduct, and celebrations. Josefina's family faces tragedy in a flood, hard work to recover losses and maintain daily existance, the emotional conflict of change, and other choices appropriate to the world they live in. Additional historical information for each story is at the back of each book, making this a history lesson that goes down with a spoonful of sugar and much enjoyment.

Each book is only 4 chapters long, and if all you want out of it is a nice story, then this series will deliver it in a historical setting that is new to many readers. Because of the excellent research that was done, this series can be used for new students (children and adults) of Southwest history. However, those who want to look deeper will find that the themes of the stories work well with New Mexico history of the time. In 1821, the Santa Fe Trail opened up, bringing Americans to Santa Fe. They brought new goods, created a merchant class, and brought values that were more materialistic than either the Hispanic or Pueblo people had lived by. Josefina, like other members of the younger generation, would spend a lifetime learning about choices, change, and deciding what traditions to hang onto. The Hispanic culture did change, and the wealthy merchants adapted to an Americanized world while rural communities sought to continue to live by their cultural traditions. Either way, the world that Josefina and her sisters inherited would not hold for them the same roles, expectations, and choices that their grandmother had. It is a credit to the Hispanic people that they held onto so much because they did it against discrimination, and in the face of change. To this extent, Tia Dolores is the symbol of this coming change, and Mama is the traditions that they must choose to remember and honor. I reread this series occationally, and it still brings much to my life. Although the brevity of the books is deceptive, I would stick with the publishers recommended reading age of 8-12 (about second through sixth grades) because there is so much that can be learned and enjoyed in these books that a younger child may miss.

These books hit the mark!
As a grown up, hispanic woman who grew up in New Mexico (whose grandmother's name was actually Josefina), I must say that these books are very factual and well written. Hispanic culture does not change much from generation to generation, and the depictions of the culturally rich traditions of a hispanic family from that area of the country are perfect. These books are a joy to read!

Great!
I have been an American Girl fan since I was 6, and the Josefina books make me an even bigger fan. The stories are engaging and the characters very likeable. The Josefina series is a great way to introduce a child to the way Hispanic people in the early nineteenth century lived. I think that the 2-star rating from the reviewer from Japan was inappropriate, because as she mentioned, the books are written for younger girls, and so are not meant to be long, involved books that cater to more grown-up tastes. They are perfectly written for the targeted age group, and I think girls of that age group would love them.

American Girls has another hit!
Like all the American Girls books, these about Josefina are full of great information. The authors are very good about making you feel as if you are apart of that time frame. The best part about the Josefina books is that they also come in a Spanish version. I think that is very important for young hispanic girls to be able to read something about their heritage in their own language. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (3)

Patience and You Will Win
This is the 3rd book in the Young Royals series. This historical novel is based on Catherine of Aragon, Henry VIII's first wife. This opens in 1533, as Catherine refuses to release King Henry VIII from their marriage, renounce her title, or recognize Anne Boleyn as queen. She is imprisoned in a "moldering castle" and allowed no visitors and no contact with her daughter, Mary. This book shows Catherine reflecting on her experiences, beginning with her voyage to England at age 15 to marry Prince Arthur. Their marriage, in name only, lasted 6 months until his death in 1502. Over the next 7 years, Catherine lives with increasing poverty and decreasing prospects of marrying England's new crown prince, Henry. It shows how she hard her life was. It gives you new insight into her life. I think this book is better from 12 years and up.

A wonderful addition to the Young Royals series.
Catherine of Aragon was a young Spanish princess known as Catalina when she left her home in the summer of 1501 to sail to England. Catherine had known since childhood that she was betrothed to Prince Arthur, heir to the throne of England, and that one day she would have to leave Spain to marry him. Now that she is fifteen, that day has come. Arriving in England, Catherine has hope for her future. Arthur appears kind, and it seems they will at least be friends. But due to Arthur's poor health, their marriage is in name only. And just six months after the wedding, Arthur suddenly dies. Now Catherine finds her once-certain future in question. As a woman she is utterly powerless to make decisions about her own life, and can only wait while those in power determine her fate. Will she be returned to Spain so that her parents can negotiate a new marriage for her elsewhere -- or will she be married to Arthur's younger brother Prince Henry, the new heir to the throne of England? Carolyn Meyer brought the world of Tudor England to life in this novel. Catherine is portrayed as a real young woman with hopes and dreams, making her ultimate fate seem all the more tragic. Readers who enjoyed the author's other books in the Young Royals series won't want to miss this one.

Another great young royals book
In the 4th book of Carolyn Meyer's Young Royals series, we meet another one of the Tudor women, Catherine of Aragorn, Henry VII's first wife out of six. It is 1501, and young Catherine of Spain is betrothed to Arthur, the heir to England's throne. She begins by writing of a her journey to England. What was to be a great union of two powers was not to be as Catherine describes her utter loneliness in the English court. Arthur is very sickly and unable to perform the duties of a husband to Catherine. Six mothes after marriage, Arthur dies, and Catherine's fate is thrown up in the air as Spain and England dispute the outcome. There are rumors that she will return to Spain, and also rumors that she will marry Henry. Catherine's life is thrown into chaos for the next 7 years, and she lives through a time of poverty while the two kingdoms fight over her drowry. Through it all Catherine is determined to become Queen of England one day. During this time she comes into acquaintence with Henry, Arthur's younger brother. Catherine takes a liking to Henry and in the end, she does marry Henry and become England's Queen, though quickly the happiness fades. This was another wonderful book in the Young Royals series. Catherine painted a very vivid image of her life in the English court and her feelings toward Arthur and Henry. Fans should definitely also read Mary, Bloody Mary, about Catherine's daughter, and Doomed Queen Anne, about Anne Boleyn, the woman who ultimately stole Henry's heart from Catherine. ... Read more

Book Description

On her day in town with her mother, a little girl starts off with an empty big green pocketbook—just like her mother’s—and along the way collects pieces of her day to put inside, inventing stories for each treasure. ‘Studded with inventive imagery.… A playful and most suitable setting for this winsome story with its timeless theme.’—Publishers Weekly. ‘ Bond’s cheerful illlustrations show a lively youngster exploring and enjoying the world around her.’—SLJ.

1993 "Pick of the Lists" (ABA) ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Classic story that gets read over and over in our house
Fantastic story, amazing illustrations. My daughters and I have both loved this book from the first time that we read it. The story is sweet and you just want this little girl's day to last forever. A must read, over and over.

a favorite in our house
This book reminds me so much of when I was a little girl and went with my mother to run errands. Back then the stores really did hand out keyrings and pocket calendars and my Grandma worked at a dry cleaner so I got to see the "magic machine" a lot when people picked up their clothes. My girls both love this book, even though the oldest is now 13. We have completely worn out the binding of the hardback copy we have!

Fantastic!~
This is truly a wonderful book!
This story is told by the little girl who is going to town with her mother for the morning.
She has a big green pocketbook, just like Mama's, but hers is empty and she can't find anything to put inside it.
Mama says "hurry", because the bus is coming, so the little girl brings her empty pocketbook along anyway.
During the course of the morning, she gathers many treasures and by the time the bus comes to return the girl and her mother home, her pocketbook is full.

The little girl's view of the world is refreshing and enchanting~
She observes that the cool marble walls in the bank smell like pennies~ And she is amazed that, at the drycleaners, the machine knows exactly where to stop for mama's suit.
This is a delightful book that moms and daughters will enjoy, but both boys and girls will like hearing it, and seeing the usual best from Candice Ransom and Felicia Bond's awesome pictures.

Big Green Pocketbook's a hit
My 22 month old daughter loves to read this book with me! i think she likes that the main character is a big girl and she's spending the day with her mom- something my little one can really relate to!

Lovely bond between mom and daughter
This is a wonderful book for mothers to read to or with their daughters. A simple day of errands turns into something magical between them and a hand-me-down green pocketbook holds the key to a delightful day. ... Read more

Book Description

Rogerson Biscoe, with his green eyes and dark curly hair, is absolutely seductive. Before long, sixteen-year-old Caitlin finds herself under his spell.And when he starts to abuse her, she finds she's in too deep to get herself out... ... Read more

Reviews (93)

DreamLand by Sara Dessen
I liked DreamLand by Sara Dessen. I have to be honest when I first started reading the book I wasn't interested in it. When I had a chance to really read the book i liked it and couldn't stop reading it. It was about a typical teenage girl who has trouble inside and outside of the home.She has to deal with her older sister who just completely left with out saying a word . She had to deal with her family changing because of her sister running away. When she met an older boy name Rogerson that seem to make her life better for awhile at least she thought. When she met Rogerson she started doing things she never thought she would do. She started smoking,drinking and wasn't having time for her friends. After awhile she noticed that Rogerson was acting stranged and one he just started hitting and he never would stop. She was so afraid to tell anyone about him hitting her. She felt like the only person she could tell wasn't their(her sister). She thought if her parents found out they would think less of her but every one could tell the change in her. one day while her mother had a party and the girl (Caithlin) wasn't there he began to get angry. When Caithlin finally arrived he hit her worse than he ever hit her before.A neighbor saw them and called the cops and her mother and rogerson went to jail.Her parents could not beleive that their child was getting hit by her boyfriend.That was just a brief summary of the book , it was really good and i would like to encourage more young females to read this book.

Dreamland - A Deep and Worthwhile Read
Dreamland, by Sarah Dessen is the story of high school junior, Caitlin, and her relationship with the dangerous and intriguing Rogerson. On Caitlin's 16th birthday, her 18 year old sister, Cassandra, whom everyone had considered perfect, ran away from home to be with a boyfriend she had only known for a few months instead of going to Yale for college, as she was supposed to do. Caitlin's whole family was devastated and, after being dragged into cheerleading by her best friend, Rina, Caitlin felt that she was being forced to become a replacement for the talented and athletic Cass, something that she knew she could never do. Desperate to do something different, Caitlin became involved with the mysterious Rogerson. Unfortunately, Rogerson was far from a good influence on Caitlin, getting her involved with drugs, encouraging her to ignore school and cheerleading to be with him and, eventually, using her as a punching bag. The story Dreamland tells is one of an average high school girl searching to find where she belongs, and finding herself in a place that is very wrong indeed.
This novel is excellent for high school students and for their parents. Dreamland does not merely address abusive boyfriend/girlfriend relationships, but also relationships with friends, family, and within oneself. Parents should be encouraged to read this book because, since it seems very realistic, it could help them relate to their child by teaching them what and how teenagers think and feel. Surprisingly enough, the major conflict in this book is not person vs. person, boyfriend and girlfriend fighting one another, but person vs. self, Caitlin searching to know what she should do about her various problems.
There is not a lot of symbolism in Dreamland, but when there is it is very appropriate and well placed. One of the major symbols is the "dream journal" Cass left for Caitlin on the night she ran away. In the book, Caitlin frequently thinks about the journal. To both Caitlin and the reader, the "dream journal" symbolizes Caitlin's relationship with her missing sister. Probably the most important symbols in the book are photographs. At one point in the book, Caitlin takes a photography class with her mother and their neighbor. The class comes to represent Caitlin's sanity and the pictures she takes represent both how people seem to be and how they really are when they thing no one is looking.
In all, Dreamland, by Sarah Dessen is an outstanding book. It is good for people of many ages, although it is technically a "young adult" novel, and the story does an excellent job of drawing the reader in. Dessen's characters, their behaviors and their rationales are all very believable and easy to relate to. Not only is Dreamland a good read, it is also an insight into the lives of teenagers who are forced to deal with difficult situations.

deliciously different
The thing that struck me while reading Dreamland is the same element that causes many people to label the book 'disturbing'... the focus on how Caitlin let herself be abused and hurt. The language is beautiful and honest, and the characters are remarkably sympathetic- not in the sense that the reader feels sorry for them, but that the reader understands the reasons behind their behavior. Dreamland may be dark and gloomy, but it is also painfully honest, realistic, and compelling. A must read for anyone that isn't under the delusion that all teen literature has to be coated with happy pills!

Very Depressing
I thought this book would be good, as I loved Sarah Dessen's other books, That Summer and Someone Like yOu, but this was very bad (in my opinion). It started off okay, but it got so much worse. It was horribly depressing. Someone else said it made her midly sick. Me too. I felt so depressed, and it was summer! Don't read this unless you like abusive boyfriend/sad books

Depressing
When I began to read this book it sounded like a fantasy novel. But it turned into a story about drugs. If you like depressing scary stories this is the book for you! I would suggest "THis Lulaby" instead. ... Read more

Book Description

Keladry (known as Kel) is the first girl to take advantage of the decree that permits girls to train for the knighthood. The only thing that can stop her is Lord Wyldon, the training master of pages and squires. He does not think girls should be knights and puts her on probation for one year. It is a trial period that no male page has to endure and one that separates the friendly Kel even more from her fellow trainees. But Kel is not someone to underestimate. . . . ... Read more

Reviews (216)

Different from Alanna, but great anyway
I originally thought that this series would be just a carbon copy of the Alanna books. Well, I was wrong. yes, there are similarities (Kel is good friends with the prince for instance), but on the whole, it is very different.

While the problems Kel faces are similar to the one's Alanna faces, they are quite different. Instead of being as good as the boy pages while pretending to be a boy, Kel has to be as good as the boys right through everyone's sexist ideas.

She is also very unfairly put on probation - and must prove herself extra so she will be able to stay to her seconed year.

Kel's character is also very different from Alanna's and she finds different forms of fighting challenging.

There is a different training master and training to be a knight is considereably different now than before.

Several characters from previous books made short appearances - Daine, Numaire, Roaul and a little bit of Alanna in the beggining of the book.

Although the book doesn't mention it, i do think that Kel may have wild magic - although I don't know why niether Daine or Numair mentioned it to her.

I also would have liked Alanna to be in the book a little more - I really like her. Kel recieves a few anonymouse presents which I think are from Alanna because she was not permitted to talk to Kel. This does hint to the fact that Alanna will have more space in the books to come.

The style of Pierce's writing has changed since Alanna - it's not better or worse, just different. Overall, a good book.

I can't wait for Page to come out in paperback!

Another wonderful Tortallan series
Ten-year-old Keladry wants to be a knight like her hero Alanna the Lioness. After she rescues some kittens from a spidren monster, she becomes more determined than ever to go to knighthood-training school, so she can learn how to protect the weak and small. Kel is the first girl page since Alanna (who was disguised as a boy at the time), and the odds seem to be against her: The training master thinks girls shouldn't be knights; some of the boys play vicious practical jokes on her, trying to get her to drop out. Kel shows her courage when she is the first student to stand up to the school bullies. As always in Tamora Pierce's fantasies, there are plenty of good, likable characters, such as the Shang Wildcat, Daine (who converses with animals), King Jonathan, the mage Numair, good old Sir Myles, Neal of Queenscove, and Lord Raoul. And then there are the animals: Kel's faithful horse, Peachblossom, and the sparrow Crown and her flock, who prove quite dangerous to Kel's enemies. There are some exciting confrontations with immortal monsters. "First Test" is the first book in Ms. Pierce's third Tortallan series, Protector of the Small, and it's just as much fun as the two earlier series. I'm now looking forward to reading the next book, "Page."

Great Book!
When I got this book out of the library, I didn't want to finish it until I could go on to the next book. When Keladry of Mindelan (Kel) goes to Corus to become a Lady Knight, she finds it harder than she expected. Battling against Lord Wyldon, the training master, Kel builds up a reputation for protecting the helpless. Thus, the name for the quartet,"Protector of the Small."

Amazing
I loved this book! She didn't get through it so easily as in most books, she had to fight every step of the way. She had her fear of hieghts to contend with, that's what makes her such a strong character! This is a great book that definetly will inspire and make you read the next in the series!

Nice Idea
(...)There is so much background information about the land of Tortall in the Alanna books that is left out of this book. I guess Ms. Pierce didn't want to repeat herself but someone reading this book first may feel the background is too sketchy.

If you love fantasy and magic (like I do) you may be disappointed in "First Test". This book has almost no magic in it and reads almost like a historical of midevil times. Actually what I thought of when I read this book was what happened at The Citadel (military college) several years ago. When they first opened the school to women there was intense resistance. The poor girl (I have forgotten her name) who was the first female "accepted" was put through absolute hell and was not able to stick it out more than a week. But she paved the way and the next girl was successful. Now a woman going to the Citadel is not even a blip on the media's radar screen.
So it is interesting in "First Test" to see how Keladry makes it through her first year of training to be a knight. The book has relevance to our times too. Even though it is similar to what Alanna goes through, there are some key differences. In fact, the diffences actually bugged me a bit. Why didn't Kel ever seem to go into town? Did Alanna have an older page sponsor? Anyway, I didn't think that was that big a deal. What bothered me much more was how bland this book and Keladry are. Not much seems to happen here so if you're looking for adventure, forget it. And Keladry is about the most boring, stoic heroine you can imagine. Actually, her personality is perfect for the first female knight-in-training but that doesn't make for a very interesting person (or book). Still, I love the way Keladry is changing minds not by talking but by doing.With her amazing courage and fortitude she is a wonderful role model for young women. Actually, a much better role model than Alanna. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Leslie Hiller's world is growing smaller. It used to be large enough to include her worrisome but loving mother, her doting father, her close friend Cavette, and all the other people and places that made up her upper-class, A+ life. But now it has shrunk to the size of a dinner plate full of food--which she scrapes out her bedroom window to avoid eating. Leslie, a perfectionist who loves to be in control, finds she can't control the fear that she will somehow fail to be the perfect daughter, perfect student, and perfect friend. So she decides to master the one thing over which she is certain she has complete domain: food. Even when it becomes apparent to everyone that her severe dieting has become a life-threatening habit, Leslie still can't stop: "I want to be happy. And being happy means being thin."

Author Deborah Hautzig, who recounts her own painful battle with anorexia in a very personal and heartfelt afterword, gives Leslie a frighteningly realistic voice that will ring true to teens everywhere. First published in 1981, Second Star to the Right has risen again to give a new generation of young adults valuable insight into the addictive world of anorexia, and hope for getting out from under the cruel thumb of the disease. (Ages 12 to 15) --Jennifer Hubert ... Read more

Reviews (36)

Excellent portrayal of this disease
I too suffer from Anorexia. Leslie and I could be the same person. It was great to read a book about eating disorders that didn't focus on the PHYSICAL aspects of the disease, but on the person suffering and what their life is like. I spent a month in a hospital this summer. My guess is that I'll be back in the same program fairly soon. Leslie's conflict between recovery and the disease is one which I fight every day. Finally, there's a book that describes accurately how someone with and eating disorder feels!

I could completely relate with this tale of anorexia!
I, too, suffer from life-threatening anorexia nervosa. Even at my present weight of 58 pounds, thin enough can never be achieved. This past year has been extremely rough, in and out of hospitals and treatment. Just when I felt hopeless, my friend contacted me with a pile of literature on anorexia, and this book was a breath of fresh air. This disease that is killing me, the monster of anorexia, and as I read about Leslie being in the hospital, torned between recovery and falling deeper into the hands of the illness, I was crying, because it was almost as if I was reading about ME. Leslie and I are so much alike-perfectionists, kind, sincere, always wanting to be the best. This book couldnt tell it all better-please read it! please! this is a wake-up call and should not be ignored!

One of the best books ive read in a long time
I loved tihs book sooooooo much. I picked it up at the library and couldnt put it down. I could realate to the main character(leslie) and i just felt so grateful to read about someone who saw things almost the exact same way i did. Anyway, if you have ever struggled with an eating disorder i definatly recommend this book for you will be able to relate and be spell-bound by it. I hope that anyone who has been debating with themeselves over whether to read this or not will defianatly pick up the book and give it a chance. Even if you have never struggled with an eating disorder, it will allow you to get a brief glimpse into the mind of an anorexic and see that people dont choose to get like that. Anyway, i sincerly hope you pick this book up and enjoy it as much as i did.

A Must
Little things had stuck with me as much as this story, Leslie potrays a lot of things about youth that are still valid. The plot is vivid, Leslie's relationship with her mother is an honest representation of mom and daughter.

I would recomend this book to anyone, there are so much things you can get out of it! And its not at all preachy or moralist.

gets into the head of an ed
It's hard to explain to people without an eating disorder what craziness goes on in the mind of an eating disordered person. this book does it. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Call it fate, call it intuition, or just call it common sense, butsomehow young Alanna knows she isn't meant to become some proper lady cloisteredin a convent. Instead, she wants to be a great warrior maiden--a female knight.But in the land of Tortall, women aren't allowed to train as warriors. So Alannafinds a way to switch places with her twin, Thom, and take his place as a knightin training at the palace of King Roald. Disguising herself as a boy, Alannabegins her training as a page in the royal court. Soon, she is garnering theadmiration of all around her, including the crown prince, with her strong workethic and her thirst for knowledge. But all the while, she is haunted by therecurring vision of a black stone city that emanates evil... somehow she knowsit is her fate to purge that place of its wickedness. But how will she find it?And can she fulfill her destiny while keeping her gender a secret?

With Alanna: The First Adventure, veteran fantasy author Tamora Piercehas created a lively, engaging heroine who will charm middle-school readers withher tomboyish bravado and have them eagerly searching for the next book in theSong of the Lioness series. Like Brian Jacques's tales of Redwall, this popularquartet is an entertaining fantasy series for younger teens. (Ages 10 to 13)--Jennifer Hubert ... Read more

Reviews (497)

One of my favorite Fantasy books
The first Tamora Pierce book that I ever read, this book grabs you and pulls you in. Alanna is a young girl of noble birth, who doesn't want to become a lady. What she wants is to be a knight of the realm, so she switches places with her twin brother Thom, and goes to the Corus, the capital of Tortall. She must dress, talk and act like a boy to avoid being found out. She must overcome many obstacles, her lacking swordmanship, her fear of her gift, and her changing body. She makes friends and enemies, saves lives and does many amazing things. Alanna is a wonderful heroine because she is so human, she has her flaws and her strengths, a temper, but she is fiery and determined all the way. This is a definite MUST READ!

A HELPFUL review!
Ambitious, brave, and bold. That is a pretty good description of Alanna of Trebond. Alanna, the heroine of Alanna, The First Adventure,is a ten year old girl with one huge goal: to become a knight of Tortall. There is also one huge problem: girls are not allowed to become knights. Alanna, however, has a plan. Since she is old enough, she is going to be sent to the convent to learn how to be a lady. Her twin brother, Thom, is going to be sent to the palace to be trained as a knight. Thom hates fighting and wants to be a sorcerer. Alanna loves fighting and is scared of magic. So the twins decide to switch places.

Alanna, The First Adventure is a very well written book. The characters are believable, and the book keeps your attention. One of the especially good things about Tamora Pierce's style is that she gives Alanna her weaknesses and fears like the rest of us. She doesn't just have to concentrate on becoming a knight, she also has to face (unlike some other authors' heros) all of the problems that "tweens" and teens have. Setting the scene is another one of Pierce's talents. I can easily picture the kingdom of Tortall ( the land where most of the book takes place). Pierce has created a whole different world that not many writers could create. The only exceptions I can think of are Patricia C. Wrede, Brian Jaques, C. S. Lewis, and J.K. Rowling. Alanna, The First Adventure is not too long or short, (though I find The Realms of the Gods, another of Pierce's books in which Alanna appears, a bit tedious). Of all of Pierce's books that I have read, Alanna, The First Adventure is by far the best.

Pierce's book teaches us a lot of things. It really shows that you can accomplish almost anything if you put your mind to it, but that does not mean it's going to be easy. Actually achieving your goal will usually include hard work and challenges. Alanna is a good role model for pre-teen and teenage girls because of her bravery, ambition, and her "I can do it and I won't depend on others" attitude. Alanna, The First Adventure also makes a few good points, such as the fact that there is such thing as an "honorable thief". It shows that sometimes a few friendships can be better than many, most of the time those few people will be by your side no matter what secrets you posses.

My only complaint about Alanna, The First Adventure is that it seems a bit unlikely that Alanna could manage to keep her sex secret while she is a teen. But other then that, Alanna, The First Adventure is a wonderful fantasy book that I believe many people would benefit from reading.

3 reivews by three 5th grade girls
AC says: "Ok book. Too slow, too much detail. I like the story of the book but don't like how the author wrote it"

AM says: "great book. I like the details, they lead up to the excitement. Good story"

TG says: "very good book. Lots of action. Lots of drama and excitement."

Easy to read for a fifth graders. Might be inapporpriate for younger than a fifth grader.

Has magic, adventure, fighting, immortals, friendship, knights, and lots more.

Perfection
The Lioness Quartet is one of the best series of books I have ever read. It goes on my "special bookshelf" with Harry Potter, Gone With the Wind, and Pride and Prejudice. When I first got these books, I bought them in a series from Amazon, I was about eight or nine and I did not put them down until I was done. Since then I have read and re-read them what seems like a hundred times, and they have the marks to show for it (the second in the series is swollen from being dumped in the tub). For any young girl who loves fantasy this is simply a must-have.

The story follows Alanna of Trebond, a twin, and very much opposed to the sort of life a young noblewoman should have. When the story opens, she and her brother, Thom, are eleven and are being sent off to school by their indifferent father so that they may become a lady and a knight respectively. After a few moments of disgruntled reluctance, the two decide that they will switch places, allowing Alanna to disguise herself as a boy and become a knight in her brother's place, while Thom will head to the convent and train to be a sorcerer.

Thus, Alanna becomes Alan, and aided by an old family friend, the manservant Coram, she embarks upon a completely new journey at the palace in Tortall. At first bullied, or hazed, she soon becomes fast friends with the crown prince, Jonathan, and his close friends. While struggling to maintain her classes, which are made more for pushing the pages and squires to their breaking point, she also has to hide her secret from anyone. Fairly soon on in the book, she makes friends with the King of Thieves, George. As she grows up little by little she also meets the Duke Roger, Jonathan's older cousin and second in line for the throne, after Jon, for whom she has no pleasant feelings and distrusts heartily.

The books is filled with magic and intrigue, romance and history. It has good friends and bad ones, it develops every character beautifully and leaves noq uestions unanswered. And the best of it is that there are three more to read after this one, all as beautiful and clever as the first.

This book was so beautiful and good that simply writing about it makes me want to re-read it. Alanna's friends were so well portrayed they came to be my friends. I can see and smell the castle and fell her pain and understand her struggles. This book should be mandatory for any young girl reader.

Impressive at any age!
I first read this book when I was in 6th grade, and I re-read it several months ago, and it's just as good now as it was then! I'm still impressed with how well written it was. The plot was impressive, and the characters were great! The only thing I didn't like about it was the fact that Alanna jumped right into bed with the prince. I understand why it was in the story, but it was a tad cliche. Although in the end, it did add to the story, and make it even better! So all in all, I loved this book, and recommend it to anyone and everyone! ... Read more

Book Description

Revolve Devos is the perfect gift for any Revolve Girl! It's a 42-day guide (6 weeks!) to making over your mind, body, and soul. Teen girls will grow in their faith through the daily Scripture readings and devotional thoughts that give practical suggestions and insight for having a life makeover - God's style! The interactive 4-color design and "Reader's Digest" size are perfect companions for the busy, mobile, and trendy teen girl. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

WONDERFUL Book!!!!
I gave this book to my 13 year old sister when she started high school this year. This is an EXCELLENT book for adolescent/teen girls, even for adults (I am 25 and absolutely loved this book)! It has great advice & words of wisdom about self esteem, being true to yourself, and having the confidence to reach all your goals & believe in yourself. I would absolutely recommend this book to girls of ALL AGES! I would have given it 10 stars if I could!! ... Read more

Book Description

Illus. in full color. "Almost as soon as Alice arrives at Angelina's school, the two mice learn that they have much in common such as their love of dance and gymnastics. This is their story of a friendship found, lost, and renewed."--School Library Journal. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Cute Cute Cute
That's exactly what this book is. Cute. The illustrations are absolutely beautiful, and the story is enjoyable. Angelina and Alice are both mice. One day they meet each other and become friends because they both like the same things. When other kids (mice) at school begin making fun of Angelina, Alice joins in. Angelina is left with no friends, and no partner in gym. I won't tell you what happens in the end. You'll have to find out for yourself.

I recommend this book to children and adults alike.

one of my 3-year-old daughter's favorites
This is one of these children's books that the adult reading it can enjoy as well. This was the first book about Angelina Ballerina that we read, and it sent us off to find all the other one's as well. Delightful illustrations. ... Read more

Book Description

Art for the Heart is a Girl Zone book. Featuring girls' own voices in Girl Talk sidebars, the Girl Zone series is a joyful, empowering and diverse collection of books that explore topics of interest and importance to girls and young women ages 9 to 14.

When you imagine an artist, what do you see? Do you picture Picasso, Van Gogh or...yourself? Art Therapist Mary Wallace shows how anyone can be an artist. Through a series of projects, girls will explore and celebrate one of the most incredible creations in the universe -- themselves!

Art activities include: - Art Journal. Make a unique visual journal to hold all of your artistic ideas. - My Studio. Use your imagination to create your own art studio: the perfect place for you to relax, think, dream, and create. - A Quilt of Me. Create an abstract self-portrait with a quilt-style collage. - Friendship Necklace. Celebrate friendship with this beautiful beaded necklace. - Mandala. Get in touch with your spiritual side through the ancient art of the circle. - Spiral Weaving. Express your positive energies in a colorful spiral design. - Illuminated Manuscript. Decorate stories and poems using this medieval technique.

Mary's clear writing, helpful tips, and carefully chosen activities are designed for any skill level. Comments from girls create a "chat room" feel, and colorful sidebars give additional information about art throughout the ages and from around the world. ... Read more

Book Description

Protector of the Small #3

At the age of 14 and standing five foot ten, Keladry of Mindelan is a squire. A squire serves and learns from a seasoned knight for four years, then faces a final test. That final test is the Ordeal, which takes place in a magical room called the Chamber. There, a squire encounters the parts of him- or herself that the Chamber deems the most difficult to face–be they fears, failings, or unrepented wicked deeds. Does Kel have what it takes to survive the Ordeal? ... Read more

Reviews (178)

Amazing!
Keladry of Mindelan, the first girl to serve openly as a page and squire in the realm of Tortall, is in her squire years. When taken on by Lord Raoul of Goldenlake and Malorie's Peak, who is the Knight Commander of the King's Own (the 300-man protection force of the realm), Kel quickly learns the many perspectives of battle. She aquires a baby griffin, in addition to her dog, Jump, and a fifty-odd flock of sparrows. An astonising kiss at Midwinter leads up to her confusing romance with Cleon of Kennan. Conservative challengers quickly mount to a admirable jousting record. But will she pass the final test to be a knight: going into the Chamber of the Ordeal?

This was the kind of book I truly couldn't put down all the way through. I'd like to mention Tamora Pierce's wonderful humor, and the fact that she intertwined the story plots of different charecters into one so well. Kel's crushes, which slowly grow into an unlikely romance (Cleon? Who would see that coming?)add a nicely normal pre-teen element to Kel's mostly abnormal world. Some may think Cleon was a big change, and that it was annoying how Kel was "hopelessly fickle" (which she was), but surely no one hasn't had many crushes throughout school, especially at her age. The likeable charecters (Raoul, Daine, Lalasa, ect;) are well set apart from the dislikeable ones (Joren, Garvey, Ansil of Groten) with a few in the middle, like Lord Wyldon and Duke Turomot, to connect them. Though I did think Kel's admiration of Lady Alanna was a tiny bit overdone. But nonetheless, Kel's sensible, determined nature makes her a great role model for pre-teen and teen girls.

one of tamoras best books!!
ok first of all i have to say HOW CAN SOME OF YOU NOT GIVE THIS BOOK 5 STARS?!?!?!?! with that said, lets start talking about the book! as you all probably know, raoul is kels new knightmaster, and so she gets to travel around with the kings own. because of this we get to see pleanty of violence and fighting, but if you cant stand that, why are you reading a book about knights? kel and raoul grow to have a wonderful relationship, they respect eachother just as alanna and myles did in the first books of the song of the lioness series.

next we get to other relationships. everyone complains about neil being out of the picture, but personally, i think the book works just as well without him. i mean, i loved him soooo muchin the first two books and i always hoped they would hook up, but they didnt so its time to move on! dom seems amazing and im glad he was included in the book, its nice to see that im not the only one with a new crush each week. and then of course theres cleon. i love cleon, he seems wonderful and really in love with kel. you could always tell in "page" and even a bit in "first test" that cleon had the hots for kel, i just didnt think that tamora pierce would pursue that and keep it going. i really hope this relationship keeps going into the fourth book, "lady knight". marriage would be wonderful, numair and daine didnt get married when i wanted them to, and alanna ended up marrying GEORGE, who i liked, but he could never ever replace jon in my mind. kel and cleon just need to change cleons mothers mind.

oh and there is one more relationship that none of the reviews ive read have mentioned: there is a bit of romance between raoul and someone... you have to read the book to find out who!

anyway, this book is wonderful, and althoughits age is like 9-12, im going itno grade ten and i still love it and all of tamoras other books, so please, go and read this book!!!

The Best Book Ever. Excedes(is that right) Harry Potter
I think that Mrs. Pierce outdoes her self ever time. But this time, she r(...)eally outdid herself. I don't think she, or anyone, could do better at all. You can almost fall in love with the charecters.

FABULOUS!!!!!!!
I just finished reading this book, and it was absoultely fabulous!!! so far, the best book in the series. I haven't read the next one yet, but having just finished this one, I'm dying to find out what happens next.

In this book, Kel serves her 4 years as a Squire, and it all leads up to a final test- the Ordeal- which will determine if she gets her shield or not. Kel also has to face her worst fears and enemies, puts everything she's learned to the test and even finds love... but I shouldn't give away too much, so I won't say anything more.

All in all, its a great book- you won't be able to put it down, and you won't be disappointed, and, you absolutely MUST READ it!!!!

another favorite
I think that Tamore Pierce has continued with her brilliant novels and that squire is a book of extreme quality. In Squire, Kel continues her struggle to overcome predjudicwe against her and become a knight. I won't give anything away because i'm a firm beleiver in not giving away the slightest detail that might ruin something for some one. Read the book, it's wel worth the time. ... Read more

Book Description

Drawing from the life and character of Mary, Shannon Kubiak writes to teenage girls about another teenager who was asked to respond to the most challenging spiritual question God ever asked of anyone: Will you bring my Son to the world and incur society's disapproval in the process? Exploring the spiritual choices that Mary made when she said yes, Shannon then turns those questions to Christian teen girls of today. ... Read more

Book Description

Though born without great beauty, wealth, or title, Anne Boleyn blossomed into a captivating woman. She used her wiles to win the heart of England's most powerful man, King Henry VIII, and persuade him to defy everyone--including his own wife--to make her his new queen. But Anne's ambition was her fatal flaw. This is the true story of the girl everyone loved to hate.
Carolyn Meyer's engrossing third novel in the award-winning Young Royals series tells Anne's fascinating story in her own voice--from her life as an awkward girl to the dramatic moments before her death.
... Read more

Reviews (17)

Great Book!
This book unfolds the life of Anne Boleyn, a ill-favored girl that lived under the shadow of her sister throughout her childhood. Anne's sister, Mary Boleyn, was the prominent type beauty during the 16th century in England. Mary had been the mistress of King Henry VIII. However, as young Anne came to England from the French court as a stylish graceful lady, she soon caught the eye of King Henry. Anne Boleyn played her "games" upon the men in the English court and did all she could to win the heart of King Henry, the most powerful man in the nation. Anne's ambitions and strong will guided her through her struggling to be queen, the every peril in her life, and her uncertain path to power. Anne Boleyn was a mysterious yet prominent female figure of the Tudor family and her only daughter, Queen Elizabeth I, became on of the most prominent rulers in history. Though Anne Boleyn was executed when King Henry lost his interest in her, Anne's wits and determination led her to the fullfillment of her words to Mary, "One day, I shall be queen and you will kneel before me!"

Oh, beware, Mistress Anne...
"Wait and see - someday I shall be queen of England, and you will kneel at my feet!" declares thirteen-year-old Anne Boleyn haughtily and angrily to her show-off of an older sister, Mary. A mole on her neck, a sixth finger, dark-haired, thin-framed, and pale - how could such an "ill-favored child" amount to anything, her parents wonder. Don't underestimate her, Boleyn family. She inherited her ambitious nature from you, and she'll do anything to prove herself. She'll win the heart of hot-blooded Henry VIII one way or another.
Oh, beware, Mistress Anne. You don't know what you're getting yourself into. Henry cast aside one wife for failing to get him a legitimate male heir. What makes you so sure you won't fail, as well? Keep prodding and tantalizing, and you will get yourself in deep trouble...
I highly recommend this one. The Tudor family has always fascinated me, especially Anne Boleyn and her daughter Elizabeth, and I love a good historical fiction romance! You'll love it, too!

Wonderful but hard to understand
This was a very good book. I love history and Henry the
VIII so this was perfect. It was a little hard to understand. But other than that I loved it!!!

...
This book like the others in the young royal collection was very well written but I thought it lacked some of the qualities that made it great. I (as a Henry VIII buff) loved how she protrayed Mary in Mary, Bloody Mary and I thought she was fair to her character and didnt look over her faults. I dont believe she did this in Doomed Queen Anne. Anne Boylen had her faults and if you look at history I believe it is evident that she very power hungry, and in many intaces very cruel. I believe the author glossed over that part of her character to make her appear more likeable.

I loved every page of this book!
I loved this book, from beginning to end. It was so cool to see all these events in history from Queen Anne's own viewpoint. I learned a lot about her and about her interesting life. I have read all the other books in the Young Royals Series and Carolyn Meyer is now my favorite author. I would recommend the whole series to everyone, but this book was my favorite in this series. It was so well-written. I just couldn't wait to find out what would happen next. I also didn't want the book to end. I'd give this book more than 5 five stars! ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (10)

Illustrator's Mom rates this book
This book came to my attention because my daughter, Barbara,did the illustrations. I have both a 16 year old and a 7 year old Granddaughter , we asked the older one to read the book and comment and she liked it VERY much. Thought it was very informative without talking down to the young person. The 7 year old will get a chance to read it soon.Of course we've passed the book around the family and Barbara's siblings and their spouses agreed that the illustrations were terrific and they liked the text very much. While I was reading it I took it to all my appointments and many people asked me about the book and took down the name so they could order it for their daughter, niece, granddaughter. They were all impressed with the writing as well as the pictures!

Ages 9-12---NEVER
I was really shocked when I started browsing this book before I gave it to my 11 yr old. This is absolutely NOT appropriate for the age group that it is listed for. I think this is possibly ok for a 16 yr old.
Whatever you do, read it yourself before you give it to your daughter-or else you will be in for a ton of questions-that you may not have bargained for.

Recommended ages 8-12? yeah, right!
Of course the book contained the usual about periods, anatomy and bras, birth control & STD's. Then it goes into "could I be gay?" Details of orgasam and masturbation (in my opinion encouraging it), The real shocker was when the book gets into talking about foreplay and even has a section discussing anal sex! Is this book for real? I purchased this book for my 9 year old and thank God I flipped through it first! My friend wouldnt even give it to her 15 yr old! I wouldnt consider this book unless your child is over age 16! I was embarrassed that I bought it!