Review by Booklist Review
Author and gynecologist Rodgers focuses this inclusive puberty guide on vaginas, welcoming anyone with this bit of anatomy as her audience. First, a brief consideration of vaginas and female bodies throughout history--from ancient mythology to female genital mutilation to continuing protests over women's health and sexuality--explains why different cultures have considered learning about female bodies "inappropriate." Rodgers counters with an inviting, conversational style that puts readers at ease as she explains expected topics, like physical changes during puberty, first periods, period care, consent, and contraception, as well as such less-covered topics as the hymen, pubic hair care, vaginal discharge and smell, how differences in labia are normal, masturbation, and gender identity. Each topic is introduced with short, chunked text passages--important concepts appear in a larger, bolded font--and a wealth of helpful illustrations. It's the latter that also makes this guide highly recommended. Not only does the art feature female bodies in a range of sizes and skin colors, it also includes a variety of abilities and identities, including hijab-wearing girls and trans and nonbinary vagina owners. Most notable are a detailed diagram of female anatomy and illustrations of a pregnant mother with her fetus, both of which show women with brown skin. An important puberty resource that will leave readers educated, empowered, and feeling included.
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Generous in scope and detail, this illustrated guide to menstruation, vulvae, and more by TikTok star and doctor of obstetrics and gynecology Rodgers is an approachable, empowering resource for readers undergoing puberty and approaching adolescence. Using direct, scientifically accurate, and body-positive language, Rodgers opens with history about reproductive education and briefly discusses why it's important to know how one's body works, and why people across different generations and cultures may find the subjects addressed "inappropriate." By covering topics such as consent, gender identity, and safe sex alongside scientific observations, Rodgers endeavors to provide readers with necessary tools to make informed decisions about the care and keeping of their own bodies. Le Large's highly stylized and casual illustrations depict an inclusive array of bodies with vaginas and diagrams that break down myriad subjects, such as hymens and types of discharge, striking a successful balance between easily absorbed content and sobering health education. The creators take evident care in demystifying prevalent inaccuracies by outlining deliberately compiled and artfully delivered information meant to help readers "understand the normal parts of growing and changing," asserting that, while "not all of the topics may relate to you... understanding what others are going through is important." A glossary concludes. Ages 10--14. (Feb.)
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Review by Kirkus Book Review
An illustrated book about vaginas and the bodies that have them. In an ideal world, young people would freely access accurate information about bodies, including those with vaginas. Inspired to fill the deep information gap that exists on this topic, Rodgers, a gynecologist with daughters, has created an educational and empowering book that normalizes change and difference. With inviting sections that reflect genuine questions ("Why do we have vaginas?" "What's it supposed to smell like down there?"), Rodgers addresses key topics like puberty, pubic hair, and periods and offers thoughtful discussions of gender identity, consent, and sexting. She acknowledges that some topics may rouse discomfort but enthusiastically asserts, "You own your body! You deserve to understand it so you can be empowered to make decisions about how to take care of it." Rodgers' body-positive tone and Le Large's inclusive illustrations make for a fun, accessible book that offers readers from any gender an entry point to understanding vaginas, their function, and their care. Highly effective double-page spreads feature a spectrum of vulvas and hymens in different skin tones and shapes and period blood in a range of colors. People depicted are racially diverse, too, and this visual inclusivity underscores Rodgers' resounding message: Everyone is different, and we can be proud of our unique selves. A helpful glossary and index will guide readers to find the information they seek. A refreshingly affirming exploration of an often taboo topic. (Nonfiction. 8-18) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
