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Welcome to Read This Book, a newsletter where I recommend one book that should absolutely be put at the top of your TBR pile. Recommended books will vary across genre and age category and include shiny new books, older books you may have missed, and some classics I suggest finally getting around to. Make space for another pile of books on your floor because here we go!
Many years ago, I was a sex educator and I used to teach sex educators. I have high standards when it comes to books about human sexuality and today’s pick is one I whole-heartedly recommend. It’s not only a great pick for the tweens and teens in your life, but considering the lack of comprehensive sex education in the U.S., there are many adults who can learn a few things from this book as well.
Wait, What? A Comic Book Guide to Relationships, Bodies, and Growing Up by Heather Corinna and Isabella Rotman with colors by Luke B. Howard
Heather Corinna is founder of Scarleteen, an online resource I’ve recommended countless times. Wait, What? is a full-color comic book that can be read in a single sitting. It’s super conversational and casual while being inclusive and accurate. The intended audience of this book are tweens and teens, but, as I mentioned, many adults can find useful information in Wait, What? as well.
The book centers around a diverse group of five friends and responds to some common questions and concerns that folks going through puberty generally have. There aren’t enough pages to dive deep into the answers to the questions; however, succinct and clear responses are offered that are a good starting point for any information-hungry reader.
There is a wide variety of questions throughout the book. There is discussion about particular things happening at a certain time, like when should someone have their first kiss or when should someone get their period (the answer is it’s different for everyone). There are also things that I really wish that many of my peers were taught, such as the fact that different people have different ideas of what dating or going out or going steady are like and you and the person you’re with actually have to agree on what that is for you. Of course there is also information on sex, gender, orientation, masturbation, labels, virginity, consent, and a whole bunch of other topics. But like I said, this book puts everything in a form that doesn’t feel overwhelming.
Wait, What? is an engaging read on a subject that can feel off-limits for some young people. I also recommend this read if you are an adult (a cool aunt, maybe?) that has young people in your life. Always good to have resources!
That’s it for now, book-lovers!
Patricia
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