It's Perfectly Normal: Changing Bodies, Growing Up, Sex, and Sexual Health by Robie H. Harris, Michael Emberley (Illustrator)

From the Publisher

"Alternately playful and realistic, Emberley's . . . art reinforces
Harris's message that bodies come in all sizes, shapes, and colors — and that each variation is 'perfectly normal.'" — PUBLISHERS WEEKLY (starred review)

When young people have questions about sex, real answers can be hard to find. Providing accurate, unbiased answers to nearly every imaginable
question, from conception and puberty to birth control and AIDS, IT'S PERFECTLY NORMAL offers young people the information they need — now more than ever — to make responsible decisions and to stay healthy. Already used as a trusted resource in twenty-five countries around the world (and translated into twenty-one languages), IT'S PERFECTLY NORMAL marks its tenth anniversary with a thoroughly updated edition that includes the latest information on such topics as birth control, hepatitis, HIV, and adoption, among others. This definitive new edition also reflects the recent input of parents, teachers, librarians, clergy, scientists, health professionals, and young readers themselves.

Publishers Weekly

In this intelligent, amiable and carefully researched book, Harris ( Before You Were Three ) frankly explains the physical, psychological, emotional and social changes that occur during puberty--and the implications of these changes. Taking a conversational, relaxed tone, Harris also discusses such subjects as sexual orientation, sexual reproduction, pregnancy, birth control, sexually transmitted diseases and sexual abuse. The author intentionally and effectively repeats certain crucial information, especially on the subject of the possible consequences of sexual intercourse. Alternately playful and realistic (and occasionally graphic), Emberley's ( Ruby ) watercolor-and-pencil art reinforces Harris's message that bodies come in all sizes, shapes and colors--and that each variation is ``perfectly normal.'' Cartoon panels illustrate various complicated processes (e.g., menstruation, the fertilization of an egg, childbirth). Appearing on each spread are two characters--an easy-going bird and an apprehensive bee--whose comments add levity to this solid volume. Ages 10-14. (Sept.)

Children's Literature

This book is more for the middle schoolers since it offers more detail and subject coverage than other books on the same topic. It is not for the faint-of-heart. Sexual reproduction, abstinence, abortion, birth control, sexual abuse, STD's (sexually transmitted diseases), HIV/AIDS are all discussed. There are lots of color drawings, presented in a non-threatening way by using a bird and a bee for discussion, and by using language easily understood by kids. My kids (ages 11, 13, & 14; 2 boys, 1 girl) read the book and unanimous stated that they liked this book and were glad it was available in the house-but they would never let anyone see them select it from a library shelf. It is a book that should be read and discussed with an adult and especially a parent.

Children's Literature

The author's and illustrator's understanding of and respect for children in evident throughout this book. Ms. Harris covers the same material as Ms. Patterson in It's OK to Be You, but treats the issue of homosexuality more explicitly and non-judgmentally adds information about aborted pregnancies. She's also included information about sexual abuse and sexually transmitted diseases, including AIDS, and an index. A bird and a bee add light-hearted commentary.

School Library Journal

Gr 4-8-A wonderful guide for young adolescents setting sail on the stormy seas of puberty. Packed with the vital information they need to quell fears and make wise decisions, this ``sex manual'' uses of clever cartoons to enliven and expand the text. Frank yet playful, they portray a reassuring array of body types and ethnic groups and illuminate the richly informative, yet compact text, allowing readers to come away with a healthy respect for their bodies and a better understanding of the role that sexuality plays in the human experience. Birth control, abortion, and homosexuality are given an honest, evenhanded treatment, noting differing views and recommending further discussion with a trusted adult. The dangers of STDs, teen parenthood, and sexual abuse are examined. The inventive use of a bird and a bee that react to the topics throughout artfully contrasts the differing views of early and late bloomers. Like any book that depicts naked bodies and sexual activity, this one is sure to inspire a few giggles in the stacks and be likely to disappear. But what it offers in scope, currency, and a cheerfully engaging format is quite special. An ideal introduction to ``coming of age.''-Virginia E. Jeschelnig, Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library, Willowick, OH

Product Details

• ISBN: 0763624330
  
• ISBN-13: 9780763624330
• Format: Paperback, 96pp
• Publisher: Candlewick Press
• Pub. Date: July 2004
• Edition Description: 10th Anniversary Edition
• Edition Number: 10
• Sales Rank: 5,759
• Age Range: 12 and up
• Series: The Family Library