Reviews (47)

Tastefully presented
My parents used this book to help answer my questions about how babies are made when I was around 5 years old. This book provided just enough informtion to introduce me to the concept of sex and making babies without embarassing me too terribly much.

I notice that some reviewers worry that the book provides children with too much information or is too graphic. I find that the book would be incomplete if some of the information or the pictures were omitted. If they weren't included, I know I would have many questions unanswered as a child. The tasteful illustrations included in the book helped me understand the book's content, rather than forcing me to fill in the gaps with inaccurate and possibly scary images that could have lead to unhealthy views of sex.

As a child, I found myself really studying the pictures, cartoon images that are presented very tastefully and are actually sort of cute. They pictures do show the male and female anatomy, which is important information if a child is to understand how babies are made. They show a man and woman who love each other and are happy, things that would allow a child to have a positive and healthy perspective about sex and making a baby.

As a person who's had personal experience with this book as a child, I highly recommend it. I plan to use it with my own son in a few years.

(One last note: I believe this book is best suited for younger children that are asking questions or could be introduced to the topic of sex or making babies. It might be a bit juvenile for pre-teen.)

Great, understandable, no-nonsense information...
This is a wonderful little illustrated book that can help parents share information about sex and where babies come from with their children. I especially like the fact that this book is presented from the point of view of that sex is an expression of love, rather than just a presentation of physical facts and the mechanics of sex.

Information in the book is presented in a straightforward manner with "no nonsense and with illustrations." As for the illustrations, my wife told me that they also helped her feel better about her own body! How's that for a double benefit?

I appreciate the level of the presentation as well...pitched toward younger children...say, ages 7-10. Children really need good, accurate information from their folks, especially as they are surrounded by various bits and pieces of partial and even mis-information about sex which they hear from peers at school and other places.

The author uses terminology that is appropriate and understandable. A great little book.

While this is a great little book, I recommend using it in combination with another book, "How to Talk to Your Child About Sex" by Linda and Richard Eyre, as part of a combined effort of discussion and reading as you teach your child about sex.

Good luck!

Alan Holyoak

Following my Mother's example 25 years later. . .
I doesn't seem like it, but just over 25 years ago, my mother sat me down with this book and we went through it. She was a teacher and very much loved books so we had our first talk about sex with the assistance of this one. Now, my daughter is 6 years old and asking questions. Although, I don't discourage her from asking, and I don't shy away from the questions, I'm not sure just how much detail I should get into with her at this age. So this book has come to my mind. I will purchase it and sit down with my daughter as my mother sat down with me. It's got cartoon pictures in it that don't make it quite so uncomfortable to discuss. And I prefer to give her the facts rather than for her get made up stories from other children.

Where did I come from?
My mother read this book to me when I was about 5 years old. It answered most of my questions in a straight forward way. To those who complained about the book being too grafic it is only grafic enough to get the message across. I would much rather deal with a small bit of graphicness than to have my child be confused. Now that I am a mother myself I plan on buying this to help teach my daughter when the time comes. If you want to teach your children where babies really do come from and want the real deal, not some fairy tale, buy this book.

Talks tough, with a sense of humor.
This book takes some tough to discuss topics and puts a humorous twist on them, making it a little easier to talk about. With cartoon-type illustrations, and real-life situations, this is a must-have for everyone's library! ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Good, but...
This book is a great way to give kids sex education. It covers all subjects clearly and in an interesting fashion. However, I disagree with the age range it is recommended for. It is recommended for ages 8-10, and, while most of the material is appropriate for this age group, some is not. Children should receive sex education in stages. A child who takes the book and begins to read will learn about body changes and babies being born, but many in the age 8-10 age group are not ready to learn about intercourse. I know this because I have a 7 year old and a 10 year old. My 10 year old read the book "Growing Up, It's a Girl Thing" and was quite thrown by some of the information on periods and body changes. But all of that information was perfect for the stage she's at -- it was the information she needed, but nothing that would worry or overwhelm her. (It is the book I'd recommend for the first step in a girl's sex education.) My daughter is very well read, but not ready for "It's So Amazing." I will hold on to the book until she is.

This book is So Amazing!
Every parent should have this book available for their children when they start asking those delicate questions. It's So Amazing! cover topics from maturation, to reproduction, homosexuality, and sexually transmitted disease in a non-judgemental, factual way. The bird and the bee that are part of the learning audience help children to feel comfortable with their own reactions to the material covered; the bird is excited and anxious to learn more, whereas the bee is apprehensive and not quite comfortable with it all. The illustrations are humorous, helping to lighten such serious topics but without detracting from the importance of it all.

All topics may not be appropriate for most 7 year olds. However, chapters are arranged to start from the most basic topics and progresses to topics that are more sensitive. If the book is read with parent and child together, new chapters can be introduced as the child is ready to learn and understand more. It is also an excellent choice for a child to read alone.

After the experience of learning sex education from the dry, clinical books available that traumitized me when I was growing up, I am very pleased to know that my son's experience will be so very different from my own!

FAR more than what I expected!!!
First off you need to know this is a large book. It's huge. The picture does not at all convey how huge this book really is. It's about two times the size of a normal size book. I really don't think the description is adequate. I expected this to be a basic story book. It is far more than that. This is a very scientific book. It is a lot like the book "A Child is Born" only geared for kids. By this I don't mean watered down or talking down to kids. It is perfect. In fact I would venture to say you could actually use this as your primary educational tool when teaching your kids about sex for the first time. I originally got a book that was advertised as being the best book to read to your kids when telling them about sex. Actually I think this is 1000 times better b/c it has pictures, it tells it graphically but in cartoon style. It is FAR less traumatic for those parents who don't feel comfortable broaching this subject. I will be using this as my primary book from now on. I am fully impressed. It is really underrated if you ask me.

Recommended for 9 year olds and older
This is a very comprehensive book about everything your child will need to now about childbirth and childbearing till about mid teens (including such issues as multiples, IVF). The reason I recommend this book for 9 year olds and older is because of the complexity(read confusion) of some of the egg-sperm pictures and even more important the book introduces the concept of intercourse. One of the pictures featured has a couple kissing under the blanket, the term sexual intercourse is introduced in the book.
It also has the introduction to the sexual maturity. Having a 6 and 3 year olds and expecting an addition now, I was looking for a simpler book to introduce/ answer questions about childbirth that would be appropriate for my older kid and did not find this book fitting the purpose.

The best book about sex education for kids
We first learned of this book from the library. It is so wonderful that I had to purchase it. My son and his fifth grade class are just beginning the sex education curriculum. I wanted him to be fully aware of what he was going to be learning before they began this study. I was amazed at how ready he was to learn. I didn't think he was this ready to hear all of this. Boy, was I wrong. It explains things in a way that is non-threatening to the child. It is a completely animated story. It explains the plumbing differences between the sexes. It even explains what the different meanings of the word sex. It also shows examples of different kinds of love you can have for people and things like stuffed animals. This book is very detailed on where babies come from and how they are really made. The book also has a light side to it. The bird character wants to learn more about it all and his friend the bee doesn't want to hear any of it. I think that is exactly how a lot of children are when it comes to this subject. It explains that some of the things in the book might seem wierd or gross to the child right now and that it's okay to feel that way right now. So when my son does have questions after class, we can talk about it and look at it together (in private) with this book. I can't say enough great things about this book. ... Read more

Amazon.com

"Hanging Low, Keeping Cool," "A Hairy Question," "Feeling Private/Feeling Guilty," "You Don't See Any Blind, Crazy Morons Around Here, Do Ya?"

Can you guess what all these chapter titles are about? Give you a hint:everything you ever wanted to know about (but were afraid to ask)... You got it,boys and puberty! Author Lynda Madaras and her daughter Area Madaras haveexpanded and updated their sensitive, detailed, often witty guide for boys onthe cusp of adolescence. To help boys realize they are not alone in theirconcerns about masturbation, body hair, growth spurts (or lack thereof), femalepuberty, voice changes, perspiration, shaving, and sexuality, this classic guideis written in a down-to-earth, nonjudgmental style and filled with answers tothe many questions boys have as their bodies begin the transformation intoadulthood. As a result of thousands of reader letters over the years, as well asthe ever growing body of information about puberty in boys, the third editionhas been revised to include more detailed discussion of penis size (the authorsget more questions about penis size than all other topics combined), updatedinformation on acne treatment, expanded sections on eating right, exercise,steroid abuse, and weight training, and important facts about STDs, AIDS, andbirth control. Filled with anecdotes, illustrations, and diagrams, the guide isdesigned with the understanding that some boys and parents will want to read ittogether, while others will want to pore over it on their own. Either way, thisresource will prove to be incredibly useful for boys and their parents overthese strange, exciting years. The companion volume for girls, What's Happening to My Body? Book forGirls is a must-read as well. (Ages 8 to 15) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (19)

Not for preteens
I bought the third edition of this book hoping it would be something my ten year old son could refer to if he has questions he is embarassed to talk about. The book is very factual without being overly clinical, but some of the topics discussed at lenght are more suited for older teens. The exhaustive list of slang names for male and female body parts really isn't necessary -- adolescent boys seem to do well in that department all by themselves! I also feel that the chapter "Girls and Puberty" has far more detail than a pre-teen boy needs or can handle. The book would be much better if it were presented in a loose-leaf format so I could give my son the sections he is able to handle at his age. I also wonder why the author has removed chapters on the important topics of birth control and STD's, which she says were in her previous edition. The book will certainly help me in my talks with my son, but I'm still looking for the right book for him to read on his own.

What;s Happening to My Body? Book for Boys: A growing up Gui
I initially borrowed an earlier edition of this book to read, as my son is 11 years old. My husband is very uncomfortable in discussing puberty with his son, and even with me. He was a very late bloomer and therefore, not a great resource on when things may occur or start to occur in my son. I read the book and then sat down one night with my son. As we sat on the couch, I read the book to him, as he looked on. We laughed some, we talked some, we giggled some, we learned a lot. His father came in during our conversation and sat down. Dad then was able to become part of a discussion that had already started and did not have to bring up himself. This worked great for our
family. I found humor, so did my son. It did have a lot of slang terms, but every child may not know exactly what they mean, and this way, my son now does and can be better educated in the slang and in the correct names. Too graphic? I do not thinks so, there were certainly some chapters we did not address
at this time, as they are more appropriate for another (older) time. The book is around the house so he can read it as he wants, there is nothing in the book that I do not want him to know. Very educational for me as well as I grew up in a family of females and therefore had no idea at what ages certain things happened to boys. My son then was able to talk to me about some of the changes that were happening to him. He then had other questions? I was able to discuss these questions with him intelligently and comfortable in my facts. He was very nervous about going through puberty, now he is not. I believe this a book for the family, not just to be handed to the child. Every child has questions that need to be answered, this book has most of the answers. I found it nonjudgemental. It did not discuss abstenance in its chapter on birth control, I wish it had, but the book will help us as a family discuss the topic of birth control and we can add in our moral values as we teach, learn and discuss.

My 10 yr old REALLY thought this book was GOOD!
He said it explained a lot about some things he just didn't feel like asking me or his father about. I am glad I got it for him. He feels much more comfortable with his pre-teen body now.

Parents; yes- Teenage boys; no way.
I was looking for a book for my stepson, (he's almost 12) and noticed that this book received a lot of positive reviews- so thought I'd try it. I just wanted a book that my wife and I could read first; turn him loose with it on his own, then talk with him afterwards about what he thought of it. Unfortunately, we won't be giving it to him, and here's why:
This book doesn't really relate to 8 to 15 yr old boys- on their own level. The words are way too big, and the book's approach is way too clinical. I remember being a teenagage boy, and I think it's safe to say that if you try to work words like "bulbourethral glands" or "pre-ejaculatory fluid" into the conversation- you lose 'em REAL fast. No kid would EVER sit around reading it! Then about every 10th page, you'd find a crude drawing of everything from simply naked boys; to cross-sections of penises, breasts, and vaginas. It ranged from clinical to slightly creepy, and just put yourself in the shoes of a teenage boy: you may want to know what it feels like to touch a female breast, but cross-sections of milk ducts can be a little scary to think about. And really- who actually needs an arrow pointing to a "nipple", in order to know what (or where) it is? "Oh THAT's a nipple! How illuminating! Can't WAIT to get my hands on that uterine lining"!:-) Which brings me to my main complaint about the book: We searched cover to cover, but found NO sense of humor in the approach- and I believe that if you want to help teenage boys to be comfortable about the topic of sexuality - you need that. Let's just say that if you want to give your teenage boy a book that he'll actually read, enjoy,and benefit from - Keep looking.

Hated it!
I bought this book for my 14-year-old nephew. When the book arrived I scanned it and found it had a lot of sexuality information that I disagreed with. I thought this book was going to be straight health & science...this is what happens to your body as it matures, this is what you can expect. Instead, I found it had opinions on sexual orientation,... etc. Abstinence wasn't given equal time. I thought the title of this book misrepresented its content. This book just wasn't for our family. I returned it for a refund. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

A middle schoolers piont of veiw
I have to say I haven't completely read this book, but I stumbled across it while doing some research at my school library. Personally, I think it's great that this book is so open...sex shouldn't be hidden away in the closet. In this day and age, it's important to talk about sex, and books like this are helpful. Many kids my age have sexual encounters, but still don't know all the basics. I live in an international community, and some parents leave their children in the dark. Further more, no matter how well a parent educates their child, there are ALWAYS questions, trust me. It's good for anyone, to be able to get answers, because talking about sex with your parents is very rarely comfortable. However, a lot of the illustrations in this book disturbed me. I know at my age it's not nessary to be embarresed, but some of the pictures were...too detailed...too graphic. It's great to be open about sex and love....just make sure it doesn't go too far.

It's Perfectly Normal
Kids talk about sex A LOT. The problem is they often pass on incorrect information. This book is perfect to make sure that what they learn is correct, accurate and healthy. I read 1/3 of this book to my 9-year-old daughter and despite the late hour, she was mesmerized. The pictures are explicit, but is necessary so that children make no mistake about what is being discussed. It also has funny cartoons that address people's attitudes about sex, and which a kid can relate to. I like the part where it covers the various definitions of sex: gender, desire, reproduction, intercourse and homosexuality. Kids really do get warped concepts of sex and this book covers all the ways people talk about it (silly jokes) and their attitudes about it. The book also covers anatomy, puberty, families and babies, birth control, and staying healthy. It's well organized, well-written and concise. I recommend every parent who hears the word sex uttered from their child's lips, read this book to him/her. Even teenagers can benefit from this information.

WARNING! This book needs supervision
Although this book is informative I do not believe it was meant for the shelves of a school library! Parents or guardians should go over this book with their children/young adults. The drawings are very graphic and do not belong in the hands of the inexperienced without supervision. Our Jr. High School currently has this book on it's shelves because of the high reviews and the "kids" check it out to pass around with their friends. It isn't being read but the pictures get a great deal of exposure. Please check with your school library for this book on it's shelves.

Very shocked
While I agree that the things discussed in this book are important to teach your children I strongly disagree with the graphic nature of the illustrations and some of the content in this book. I have also read that some organizations like Planned Parenthood are pushing this book to be placed in grade school libraries. If this is true I as a parent of a pre-school daughter am OUTRAGED that our public schools are allowing this. I don't believe this is appropriate material for children that young. This is borderline pornography. I also believe parents should be the one to share this information with their children not some teacher with a slanted bias toward some of the content in the book, ie..homosexuality, abortion, how to use a condom, etc. Parents should go to their schools and see if this is happening and voice their opinions.

Not for preteens...
I personally do not think that I would use this book at all for any age child or teen, but I am very concerned that its "recommended" age range is 9-12. I wouldn't want my 9-year-old child seeing drawings of naked men and women, learning how to put on a condom, and reading about how scientists are "working hard" to make the abortion pill available to the general public. This book treats abortion very lightly, making it appear to be something not serious that people do casually, not the life-altering and painful decision that it is. If you really want to use this book at all, I would wait at least until your children enter high school. ... Read more

Book Description

"If you're having trouble talking to your children about sex--knowing what to say and when to say it--then here is the book for you.The talented team who created the acclaimed Dino Life Guides for Families is ready to help. With characteristic sensitivity, they present answers to tough questions.Here is an introduction to sex along with the ways girls and boys differ...and are the same.What's the Big Secret is the beginning of one of the most important conversations you and your child will have." ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Good balance
I read this book to 2 10-year olds who were pretty naive. They "got it", without being too embarrassed. It handles all topics appropriately, and gives both reader and listener a few moments for laughter to break up the big news.

Great book but not really for kids under 7....
Last summer I read this book to my then just turned 7 & just turned 4 yr old and the youngest was completely clueless as to what I trying to get across. The oldest understood somewhat, wasn't all that interested, but still managed to let a few giggles out. She took the book and read it herself. When I later asked her if she had any questions for me, she had none but commented that it was "embarrassing". The book was put away to age a little longer....
Earlier this week I re-read the book to both of them, now almost 5 and almost 8. The 5 yr old is still clueless and bored with all of it. The 8 yr old seemed a bit more interested and less embarrassed. She took the book and again read it to herself and asked a few "why" questions but nothing I couldn't handle.
In my opinion, this book is great for 7 - 10 yr olds (1st - 3rd grade), not the pre-school - grade 3 that it is catagorized. Enough for 7 - 10 yr olds to comprehend and enough for this age to know. Not overwhelming in technical terms or detail nor is it written in baby terms. I agree with a previous reviewer. When the teen years arrive, more information, terms & detail will need to be divulged but for this pre-teen age. For pre-teens, this book is perfect.

Not for attachment parents!
While this book is colorful and covers many common questions, it is not for attachment parents - or any parent who wants to teach her child a more natural parenting approach.

It does have one breastfeeding picture, but it also includes pictures of baby bottles and a baby bottle-feeding, newborns in a hospital nursery, a hospital birth with the mom lying on her back (which is very difficult and can lead to unnecessary Caesareans), and a newborn crying (which is not really natural, and rarely happens in a waterbirth), and a bit of rudeness (a child calling another child "silly").

The book also states that puberty can start at "ten or twelve or fourteen" but many children are starting earlier these days (possibly from the growth hormones in cow's milk, a good reason to switch to organic milk), and they may feel worried if they read that statement.

Two better books are Welcome With Love by Jenni Overend and A Child Is Born by Lennart Nilsson.

GREAT for my young step-daughter
I bought this book for my 6 year old step-daughter. She's started asking questions about what a boy looks like and why I won't be having a baby with her daddy (she thinks it just happens because you get married). The pictures in this book are just right for a 6 year old, and there isn't too much information. It certainly settled her "need to know" crisis, and The "I'll show you mine if you show me yours" incident on the playground that I had a nightmare about.

Very good
I read this with my 8 year old daughter. She loved the book, and understood the information without being embarrassed. I really liked how it explained the differences between good, loving touches; and bad, uncomfortable touches. I would say this book is best for children over the age of 6. It may be too advanced for the younger ones. ... Read more

Book Description

"It seems like everyone else has the script. Everyone else knows what's happening and I look around and say, Duh."

Of course, the truth is that no one has the script because there is no script to follow. Chances are you'd find that almost everyone else has questions and worries a lot like yours, if you could get them to admit it. This brand-new, completely updated and revised edition of Changing Bodies, Changing Lives is full of honest, accurate, nonjudgmental information on everything teenagers need to know about today.

Am I the only one who

• can't get up the nerve to ask someone out?
  
• got my period so early?
  
• doesn't even know the right way to kiss?
  
• feels pressured to use drugs?
  
• still hasn't hit puberty yet?
  
• wants to avoid the gang scene?
  
• worries when my mom doesn't come home at night?
  
• is scared that I might have AIDS?
  
• can't decide what form of birth control to use?
  
• has no idea how to tell my friends I'm gay?
  
• goes on eating binges?
  
• has never had an orgasm?
  
• is shut out of the popular crowd?
  

Being a teenager is tough. With the information and the ideas inside this book, you'll have what you need to make these years the best they can be.
... Read more

Reviews (8)

a great resource for any preteen or teen
I am 20 years old and recieved this book at the age of 12. It was an amazing resource for me throughout my preteen year, and teen years. I was able to get non biased information, just the facts, whenever I was too embarased to ask someone. I am now looking at buying one for my 11 year old brother, so that he can learn from it the way I have.

Book for talking to preteens about many topics
This book is a very good spring board to help talk or at least begin talking about key topics to,or with preteens. This could be at own home or home of grandparent/friend/sister/brother/aunt/uncle/Godparent/spouse/neighbor/or at a pediatrican's/orthodontist's/dentist's/nurse's/psychiatrist's/psychologist's office or waiting room. At school,camp,business office or waiting room,local or school library, bookstore reading room,hospital,or at a shelter, wherever preteens are. It can be helpful for the preteen to browse through, read independently, and/or together with parent,guardian, significant other,teacher, friends, doctor,school administrator . Some kids could be ready to read it on their own independently,in privacy or out in the open in conjunction with others, now, or in the future. It could also be used as a gage to see where a child is developmentally by a parent,significant other,teacher,groups of adults or/preteens/researcher, college or graduate school student(eg. in a book club, study group, school course,and with others eg.those listed above).
As you can see Knowing and Changing;a Guide For Preteens is a book for many places,many uses, and for many people.

Every teen and parent should own one
This is the best book on being a teenager that I have ever read! And this should mean a lot to you coming from a teen (I'm a 15 year old male). It's different from other books in that it encourages teens to make their own decisions in life. It doesn't come out and say, "No! Sex is bad! You will rot in hell if you have sex before you are married!" Instead, it gives equal reasons of why to have sex and why not to and then describes all the means of birth control. But it doesn't just deal with sex, it also touches on emotions that you might have through adolecence, masturbation, what you can do if you do become pregnent, and even drugs.

Review from a High School Student
My Human Development class was required to read this book during this school year (freshman year). I have to say that I found this book informative but the majority of the information I already knew in some form of another. The quotes are very interesting yet one becomes drawn in by them, ignoring the point the quotes try to make. Any teen should be given this book or one like it, just to reasure him or her that (s)he is not alone in being a teenager.

Every teen should have this book!
This book is an outstanding volume for all teens. It is full of information that they need for making healthy choices through their teen years. It does not promote any single ideology, or push a certain set of values or choices. It gives information that the teen may only get hodge-podge through friends, conversations with parents or some school programs. Also, the book is full of quotes from interviews with teens. So, the teen hears the feelings and ideas in a form that they can "hear", not an adult voice telling them what to do. Far more approachable for teens. This one's a must! ... Read more

Amazon.com

"I kept wanting it to happen. When it did I remember thinking, 'It'sabout time.'"

"I was worried at first. Then it really wasn't so bad after all."

"I remember my brothers weren't allowed to hit me in the chest anymore. I waskind of pleased about that."

What mysterious condition are these now grown-up girls talking about? Ah, yes,puberty! With scads of personal stories and an abundance of useful, detailedinformation about girls' changing bodies and feelings, author Lynda Madaras andher daughter Area Madaras have expanded their guide for girls on the verge ofchange. First published in 1983, the bestselling classic has been revised andupdated several times over the years to keep up with ever evolving facts andwisdom about puberty in girls. In this third edition, the authors continue theirstraight talk on the menstrual cycle, reproductive organs, breasts, emotionalchanges, puberty in boys, body hair, pimples, masturbation, and all the otherfun, scary, and interesting things that go along with growing up. Filled withanecdotes, illustrations, diagrams, and honest, sensitive, nonjudgmentalinformation for the young girl, the revised edition also addresses the newscientific facts about when a girl actually begins puberty (earlier thanpreviously thought), advice on "female athletic syndrome," eating disorders,unwanted attention because of early development, and information on eatingright, exercise, AIDS, STDs, birth control, and so much more. A welcome,reassuring book for parents and daughters, designed with the understanding thatsome girls and parents will want to read it together, and some will want to readit on their own; without a doubt, though, all will benefit. Got boys?Don't miss What's Happening to MyBody? Book for Boys. (Ages 8 to 15) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (36)

Good info, but better for older readers...
I have to agree somewhat (not completely) with one of the reviewers... This book is not well suited for girls who are nine or ten (my daughter is nine and a half). It's got a lot of good information, but some of the illustrations are too graphic (my daughter found the ones of male genitalia very disturbing, and she is not immature for her age). The age span on this book should be adjusted upwards to more like 12 and up, not 9 to 13.

That being said, this book covers a lot of ground, and for the most part does so well. It has a lot of important information found in books of this type: stages of puberty, signs to look for, the female reproductive cycle, bras, getting one's period, and so on. All these things are presented clearly, although again, I feel they're geared more towards older girls, rather than pre-teens.

All in all this is an ok book, but not excellent, and is not appropriate for the age range it's listed for. Buy this book for a 12 year-old or up, but don't push the envelope with younger girls, they don't need the pressure that such graphically displayed information provides, which can overwhelm them.

All girls should be as lucky as I was...
I am 21 years old now and stumbled upon this page looking for "our bodies, ourselves". When I was about 10 years old my mother gave me this book as a way to help bridge our inability to communicate well on personal topics. It helped me immensly, as well as a few of my girl friends who's mothers (gasp!) never said a word to them about anything they were going through. I had one friend who didn't understand when her mother told her their were "napkins" in the hall closet when she needed them, and that's all she ever said to her daughter. I reccomend that ALL mothers (and fathers, too) give their daughter at least one book like this, in addition to open, frank conversations. There is nothing pornographic about the pictures in this book. They are NOT photographs - they are drawings that are informative, rather than specific examples. Madaras is careful to explain that her illustrations are not what every girl's body looks like - and explains how things can vary. I read this book over and over again when I needed it, and was able to easy navigate to the information I was looking for. One of the most important aspects of this particular book for girls is that is has information about what is going on with their male counterparts, which helps girls feel less insecure when they read about how embarrassing things can be for the boys. I highly reccomend this book to girls 9 and up, but if your daughter is immature for her age, 10 or 11 might be a better age to introduce her to some of the information, as the book deals touches on topics such as sex and AIDS - which are better left to the parents' disgression at that age.

Great
My Mom bought this book for me when i was 12 and it really helped. It answered all of the questions that i wanted to know but was too embarrassed to ask. Plus it had things that other girls my age had writen in. I recomend it to girls 12 and +

ALL A YOUNG GIRL NEEDS IN A BOOK ABOUT BECOMING A WOMAN
This book covers every topic a girl is curious about as she enters puberty, (a few she might not be curious about yet, but will need to know about BEFORE she is twelve. With children becoming sexually active at 13 and not knowing how easily a girl become pregnant and teen AIDS on the rise--this is information that every girl needs to have. Buit are parents ready to let them have it before they need it, so they can be prepared to make informed choices and know why NO is the correct answer???

ONLY FOR PARENTS WHO WANT THEIR DAUGHTERS WELL INFORMED
This book has draeings and diagrams and honest language about body changes and sexuality and it answers many questions that most 9-14 year old girls are thinking. (Many don't ask because they are either too shy or too afraid). Warning, if you think giving children information is going to cause them to be sexually active, don't buy this book. Because it has all the information a preteen could want. ... Read more

Book Description

PREGNANCY AND BIRTH-GOD'S MIRACLE OF CREATION ALL OVER AGAIN.Before I Was Born is the second book in the GOD'S DESIGN FOR SEX series, written to be read with children ages 5-8.With an age-appropriate, straightforward text and informative illustrations, Before I Was Born explains sex as a special gift God gives to a husband and wife and covers such topics as: 1) Why God made boys' and girls' bodies different; 2) God's plan for loving marriages and families; 3) The basic facts about intercourse, presented in the context of marital love and intimacy; 4) Conception and fetal development; and 5) Childbirth and breastfeeding.Created to answer the questions inevitably asked by young children, Before I Was Born will help you give your child a vital head start in understanding God's intended purpose for procreation and sex. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

very appropriate for Christian families
I had a hard time finding a book that I was comfortable giving to my 8 year old daughter, but this book did the job! We are a Mormon family, and I am very happy with this book, as it puts sex into the context of being a gift from God for husbands and wives. It refers to Bible scriptures, and discusses sex as a way to begin a family within marriage. The pictures are beautiful watercolors, so they aren't shocking for a child to view. It explained how sex works, and helped to begin a comfortable discussion with my daughter. I am very impressed with this book, and would recommend it to anyone wanting to begin a similar discussion with their children.

overwhelmingly Christian
The info is complete, but I could really do without the preachy Christian world view.

Having said that, if you are a devout Christian and a frustrated with having you beliefs undermined, then this is the book for you. Good knowlege, and solid writing.

For Everyone Else: a better pick would be:
Where Do Babies Come From?: For Ages 6 to 8 and Parents (Learning About Sex Series, Bk. 2)
by Ruth S. Hummel,

Both books are solid picks for Public and School Libraries, dependant on your service area

Informative at a childs level
My husband and I have two boys under the age of ten and we are facing issues with sex. Our children are hearing about sex from children at school and on the bus. We are a Christian family and want our children to have Christian views on something so important. We bought the whole series and our boys now have all the answers they need from us. Thank you so much for this series.

An Important Topic about an important issue
To the parents who wrote that children ARE NOT thinking about these issues, you are really fooling yourself and in denial. I'm certainly not pleased to be facing this topic with my seven year old, however children are questioning these issues a lot sooner than we ever did.
This book is a good tool to explain to an already inquisitive child.

why bother?
There is no point to these books. kids that are 5-8 really dont care about sex and the consequences. They wont remember it, and by the time that they start to care, they will most likely be atheists anyway. God has nothing to do with sex. Your creationism ideals are old-fashioned and have no place in modern society. The facts are that the human race was produced from natural selection and survival of the fittest. Kids are going to have sex anyway, no matter how much you preach to them. You shouldn't force your childern into your own religious dogma. If you really need to teach children about sex talk to them yourselves instead of having a lifeless substitute. ... Read more

Book Description

Our youth are bombarded by worldly messages about sex and love. Without God's help, remaining sexually pure is nearly impossible. Dannah Gresh's And the Bride Wore White exposes our culture's lies about sex, and prepares young women and girls for the world's pressures-giving them seven "secrets" of biblical purity. ... Read more

Reviews (36)

"And the Bride Wore White"--a must-read for teen girls!
I believe that the book "And the Bride Wore White" is one that would greatly benefit junior and senior high school girls today. Dannah speaks from the heart regarding relationships with "guys", your relationship with God, and how to keep them both where they belong. She clearly shares with her readers the benefits of staying both physically and emotionally pure. Her stories about her dating experiences are relevent today, giving girls solutions to problems that can be life changing when handled appropriately. It was a great book to read, easy to follow, and a blessing to me as a mom and former "teen girl".

And the Bride wore white
I have never been so inspired by a book such as this. I strongly advise all teenage girls to read this book,it could change their lives completely. Dannah is an inspiration to all who read this book and the honesty and sincerety of this story involving Dannah's teen years is heartwarming and a real tribute to her faith in God. Please do not miss the blessings you get from reading the trials and tribulations Dannah shares with her readers.I am very proud of my daughter-in-law and have learned a lot about her and love her even more.

BOOK GOOD ENOUGH FOR ADULTS
I am reading the book and I am single 38 years old. I find the book extremely helpful. I think if you want to have a pure life for God as a single woman I think this book would be a good one. I am ready to give the book to several of my friends. I find that it is a decision about being pure. I plan to also share the book with my church website and suggest the teen and possibly the preteen girls of the church read this book and the boys read "Who Moved the Goal Post?". The chapters are just right for the teenagers. I plan to get the leadership book so that I can lead a Bible Study group on this. Thanks so much Dannah and Bob.

A junior high youth leader's perspective
I bought this book to "skim" for information that I could use for my junior high youth group girls. I couldn't stop reading! I stayed up late to read to the very last page.

The nonfiction text is full of true accounts from all kinds of girls and women and that kept the pace of the book very readable. While some nonfiction can get bogged down in details and over-explaining, Dannah Gresh is a gifted storyteller and uses beautiful language with a gentle, encouraging style.

I found this book extremely helpful for use in our church's junior high youth group. Since that time, the author has put together a leader's guide, but I made my own lesson plans based on the book and it was a wonderful experience!

I did find, though, that the junior high girls didn't read it as voraciously as I had. Their older, high school sisters loved it, so I'd say the reading level is 9th or 10th grade.

I highly recommend this book!

Practical advice that's already been given.
There are scores of book on purity on the market today, and they're all starting to sound the same. The seven secrets don't feel like secrets after already being familiar with abstinence/purity. The author's intentions in writing this was that no one ever told her HOW to live chastely. One radical and increasingly unpopular idea about how to live is this: Read the Bible. There are many references and guidelines to help. 1 Corinthians 7:1 is a starting point.

The writing style felt awkward as though the conversational approach was forced in some places. The text is littered with way too many parenthetical phrases (which became annoying). Nevertheless, the reader will be able to see the author's desire for women to value themselves and have a strong relationship with God.

I've read and re-read this book several times, and I still can't shake the sense of feeling just a little deceived. The fact that the author didn't marry as a virgin doesn't make her any better/worse than someone that did. I don't like her ambiguity about it throughout the book only to confirm it near the end in very certain terms. She does make reference to her "sexual sin" a few times, but that's such a subjective term that it's open to interpretation. I don't believe the author intended to deceive the anyone at all. However, the way she presents her story discredits her honest approach to some degree. Bringing everything out in the open in the beginning would make the book more effective.

Overall, it's not a bad book and it's not groundbreaking either. How much you enjoy it will depend more on what you already know about purity than on what the author has to say. Be sure to use the "Look Inside" feature before buying. ... Read more

Book Description

The classic guide to teen sexuality—updated and expanded with information on sexually-transmitted diseases; contraception; sexual abuse, healthy relationships; hotlines and resources; and much more. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Accurate, Honest and Made For Real Human Beings
Working within a private practice, I constantly find young people and parents who are looking for understandable answers to their questions about sex, responsibility and growing up in a healthy way. I have personally read over a dozen books on this topic, but this is the one we have in our waiting room and that we recommend to our youth and parents.

This book provides accurate, honest, understandable and realistic information to those who need it most. Our teens love it, and parents find it to be a Godsend. If there is one book each family should have it's this one.

The best book for teens I've ever read!
Working as a health and sexuality educator in Miami, as well as being a mother of three, this book delivers the information teens really want to know in a way that is understandable and interesting to them. Another big plus is that this book has the most illustrations of any other book on the subject, which holds my students and teens attention as well. I always recommend this book to the staff personnel, teachers, parents and students I meet at the health facilities and schools I visit. This truly is an invaluable handbook!

Every Parent Needs This!
I recently read an article about how many parents simply are unaware of what kind of information teens needs when it comes to sex and this book was recommended. I purchased it and read it in 3 nights! And the article was right, now that I read all of this I am much more confident about speaking to my 14-year-old daughter about these issues. There was actually so much I didn't know, especially about what teens are going through these days. The other nice thing is that not only do my daughter and I talk about these issues now, but I gave the book to her to read. She comes to me for my opinions on what she reads and just simply loves all of the information because it is written in such an easy to read style. Excellent resource!

The Underguide Guide of tennage sexulity
Well this book of The undergroung teenage sexuality well is about how did you should take care of your body when you have intercoase. Also this book its very intesting to all the teenage who their parents dont talk to them about sex. I think this book should be read by all ages because thereare some teenage dont know about there reproductive parts.

This has it all
Glad someone out there finally understands what is going on with young people and is giving us the information we want! Some of my friends like the abstinence section, some us need the contraception section, but what I like best is that not only is this about sex, but it let me know that I am not alone in a #$%@@ home life and that I can make it, and how. Adults don't realize what we go through and everyone thinks EVERY young person is treated right - well their wrong. I'm glad I got this information and I'm glad I'm not alone. This is a GREAT book-two thumbs up! ... Read more

Amazon.com

The title of the first chapter of this workbook, printed in a wavy,spooky font, is "What's Happening to You?" Appropriate, when you think about theemotional and physical changes wrought in a boy's body as he enters puberty.Based on the bestselling classic by mother-daughter team Lynda Madaras and AreaMadaras, What's Happening to MyBody? Book for Boys, this workbook by the same authors uses games,drawings, photographs, quizzes, personal stories, checklists, and otheractivities to help boys learn about the transformations that will take place intheir bodies during puberty. Similar to the My Body, My Self for Girlsworkbook, but with a more masculine slant (and obviously, a lot of differentinformation), this is an invaluable resource for boys with questions, curiosity,and a need for reassurance. Topics covered include skin and hair changes, bodyimage, acne, reproductive organs, voice changes, masturbation, and more.Although What's Happening to My Body? explores these issues in greaterdetail, this workbook enables boys to delve into the nitty-gritty of puberty ona more personal level. One exercise, called "Racewriting," asks boys towrite--whatever comes into their heads and as fast as they can--about theirfeelings about growing up. Then there's the "Test Your I.Q. with This P.Q."true-false puberty quiz. Tremendously useful side features list acne do's anddon'ts, ways to cope with erections ("wear baggy pants and long shirts if theykeep happening, just remember that it's probably more noticeable to you than toanyone else"), and dangerous side effects of steroids. Written in a lively,nonthreatening style, the authors have placed a strong emphasis on honest,straight talk about the concerns that boys are bound to have as they approachadulthood. (Ages 8 to 15) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Book Description

Today's children hear about sex all the time-on television, in the movies, and from their friends. But what they hear and see does not always give a healthy or even an accurate view of sexuality.

This unique book, the only one of its kind for preteens, uses a question-and-answer format to offer straightforward information on a wide variety of subjects that often concern and mystify young people.

Reviews (8)

Could it get any worse!?d
This was a pretty dumb book I already knew all of this stuff!

Not the best choice.
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.

Simple, well written but best for adolescents...
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.

Great Info, Too Many Pictures
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!

Great questions.
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. ... Read more

Reviews (36)

A great resource for pre-teen parents!
I purchased this book over a year ago when my daughter was nine. After a short perusal I decided it wasn't quite time to bring it out, but have kept it in the back of my mind for 'the right time'....it amazes me how quickly 'the right time' sneaks up.

This book is well organized into several sections and addresses the basics of various 'sex' topics: sex and sexuality, physiology, puberty, the 'scientific' side of reproduction, health issues, and family life. The discussion is both frank and appropriate; assuming your child has begun asking questions and/or started through puberty.

The chapter layout provides the ability to address topics one by one or as you see fit. 'Sensitive' topics such as homosexuality, birth control, abortion, and STD's are covered (distinct sections if you are not ready to address them ) along with some history and 'varieties of public thought' discussion.

The illustrations are commendable - all of shapes, sizes, ages, and colors. The author integrates the various slang body terms - addressing both their humor and/or disrespectfulness as well as discussing gossip, teasing, superstitions, and all the confusing things that abound. Many of the other positives are addressed in earlier reviews.

My one critiscm is lack of pronunciation guides or 'sounds like' references. I think it's critical to provide confidence in saying the words correctly - for both children and parents! (Though a good incentive to promote use of the dictionary.)

A great resourse for pre-teen parents!
I purchased this book over a year ago when my daughter was nine. After a short perusal I decided it wasn't quite time to bring it out, but have kept it in the back of my mind for 'the right time'....it amazes me how quickly 'the right time' sneaks up.

This book is well organized into several sections and addresses the basics of various 'sex' topics: sex and sexuality, physiology, puberty, the 'scientific' side of reproduction, health issues, and family life. The discussion is both frank and appropriate; assuming your child has begun asking questions and/or started through puberty.

The chapter layout provides the ability to address topics one by one or as you see fit. 'Sensitive' topics such as homosexuality, birth control, abortion, and STD's are covered (distinct sections if you are not ready to address them ) along with some history and 'varieties of public thought' discussion.

The illustrations are commendable - all of shapes, sizes, ages, and colors. The author integrates the various slang body terms - addressing both their humor and/or disrespectfulness as well as discussing gossip, teasing, superstitions, and all the confusing things that abound. Many of the other positives are address in earlier reviews.

My one critiscm is lack of pronunciation guides or 'sounds like' references. I think it's critical to provide confidence in saying the words correctly - for both children and parents! (Though a good incentive to promote use of the dictionary.)

Pornographic? I think not.
As a summer camp counselor who works with 9 to 11 year olds, and as an 18-year-old who is still young enough to remember how uncomfortable puberty can be, I cannot stress enough the importance of sex education at a young age. After reading reviews of this book stating that the content was too graphic, I decided to take a look for myself.

What I found was a refreshing and frank discussion covering almost everything a preteen would want to know. From physical changes to contraceptives to masturbation, a 9-12 year old can easily have his or her questions answered without feeling shame or embarassment. I was impressed with the overall tone of the book - it was very reassuring, and emphasizes that everything that happens, however and whenever it does, is "perfectly normal." The illustrations throughout the book best depict this, as they feature bodies of every shape, size, age, and ethnicity. In fact, the illustrations are one of the most effective parts of the book - they are detailed enough to give kids an accurate depiction of a human body, yet not so vivid that they are intimidating.

As for parents that are afraid to give their kids a book of this nature, keep in mind that your kids are talking about sex more than you know or may want to know. The high volume of sexual content that kids are exposed to, be it through the media or though hearing about it from their friends, makes it an absolute necessity that they are given proper, accurate information. Preadolescence is also a time during which a kid's sense of self is exceptionally fragile, and it is imperative that they are reassured that what they are going through is, as the book implies, "perfectly normal."

Sorry, folks. Sex IS embarrasing to talk about...
I've read and heard lots of thing about this book and checked it out for myself. Quite frankly, I think this is a great way to let kids educate themselves, simply by reading it. YES, it is embarrasing. But remember when you were a kid and you snuck into your parents rooms to look at your dad's porn? Or you found "The Joy of Sex" or "Our Bodies, Our Selves"? Cartoon drawings are far less offensive than learning about sex in this way and the idea of these books is to open a dialogue...it ain't pretty either way. And kids... you gotta deal with it. I take serious offense to a parent allowing a kid to right a review about this book to say how embarrasing it was for them to read. If it weren't embarrasing, I would think your kid was the dalai lama reincarnated.

Great book - even better because it annoys the right wingers
Not only does this book serve its purpose of providing children with a sane, fair and intelligent approach to human sexuality, it really, really annoys the right-wing freaks. That alone makes it worth every penny. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Based on the bestselling classic, What's Happening to My Body? Book forGirls, this workbook uses quizzes, exercises, personal stories,checklists, and other activities to help girls learn about the changes that willtake place in their bodies during puberty. What's Happening to My Body?explores these physical and emotional changes in greater detail, but theworkbook/journal invites more participation, so that girls can really getinvolved in the sometimes bewildering, wonderful, and scary transformations thattake place as they become women. Written in a peppy, fun style, with a strongemphasis on honest, straightforward discussions, the workbook covers such topicsas menstruation, acne, pubic hair, breasts, growing pains, and sex, with suchchapter headings as "The Big M," "The Female Sex Organs: An Owner's Manual," and"B.O. and Zits--Is Puberty the Pits?" The information provided and questionsasked are smart, sensitive, and highly relevant to girls entering puberty.Questionnaires ask girls to decide what they would do in different situations(Jan's breasts have started to develop, but she lives with her dad and isembarrassed to ask for a bra. What suggestions do you have for Jan?). Women, doyou wish someone had given you some remotely useful information when youwere an adolescent? Do a girl in your life a favor now and give her My Body,My Self for Girls. And don't worry, boys, there's a workbook for you, too: My Body, My Self forBoys. (Ages 8 to 15) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Best Book for Us!
I've looked at a lot of books and this one is great,! Unlike other books, it does not mention anything about boys, yet. I feel like for a young girl, "Let's learn about your body first" boys later. Also unlike other books, it doesn't go overboard with talking about a first trip to the gynecologist or anything explicit about sex.

I love the workbook idea so you can compare and see where your at and maybe have some fun at guessing what part of puberty is coming next and which order it is going to happen in. Whether, it's big feet, sweating, boobs, or periods.

I bought this for my 1st daughter in 4th or 5th grade. She's 14 now and she still looks at it every now & then just to see where she's at. Now I'm getting a second one for my other daughter who will be entering 5th grade.

I love it so much mostly because it's only about girls and puberty. I don't want to overburden my girls with more than what's going on with themselves at this age. Eduction about boys & girls starts in 6th grade. I've seen plenty of other books, mostly borrowed from the library, and some go too much into detail, including a few that actually talk about "the act" and exactly how boys & girls go together complete with drawings!

THIS BOOK IS PERFECT!

Lovely and Fruitful!
This was a wonderful. The bit about the horses running in the field of corn was my favourite! Sammy the Lamb was my best character. I hated snoopy the snoop, though.

What's Happening to my body?-It taught me alot!
I am 11 years old and I am not afraid of Puberty anymore! Now that I have read this book and completed the activities, I feel great! All girls that feel puberty is a drag, or if you just need to know more, get this book! I give it a perfect 10 for outstanding achevement by the excellent author duo.

Excellent all by itself!
I bought this workbook for my 11 year old daughter without the companion "What's Happening to my Body" book. The book is easy for a young girl to understand, interspersing medical terminology with common slang (nothing crude) and it is illustrated with lots of line drawings. It is extremely comprehensive, taking what is commonly taught about puberty one step further.

My daughter really enjoyed the activities in the book, from researching the 'female' history of the family to developing new family traditions. Due to that particular exercise I now have to celebrate 'first periods' by taking my girls out to dinner when the moon is full !!! I highly recommend this book. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Not For Kids Who Were Adopted
I do not like this book overall. While it does have age appropriate discussion of sex and pregnancy with a Christian focus, the text is too long in my opinion for a child of the target age to sit and listen. My primary objection is that this book is not appropriate at all for adopted children. The stories are told entirely from the point of view of a birth child. The comments and discussions focus on the idea of children being born into the family, nursing to be fed, and so on. There is a very tiny discussion about all families being "different" and a particular child not looking like his birth parents b/c he was adopted; this plus the strong focus of the text on birth families would alienate a child who was adopted rather than inform him/her. If you are looking for a facts of life book and your child was adopted, do not get this book.