Hair, There, and Everywhere: A Book About Growing Up »

Children's Literature

Following the lead of Robie Harris and Ed Emberly's series on sexual health and education (It's Perfectly Normal, 1995; It's So Amazing, 2000; It's Not the Stork, 2006), Bailey and Naylor create a lighthearted but informative look at growing up and all that entails. Covering a wide range of topics, the book answers questions about reproduction and puberty; discusses relationships with parents, friends, and romantic interests; and offers suggestions on healthy lifestyle choices. Naylor's comic style illustrations feature teens and children of all races and genders grappling with the issues of growing up. Detailed drawings provide anatomical information that is clear and simple to understand. Bailey covers the sometimes embarrassing topics of growing up with ease and confidence, which will help readers feel comfortable with the changes that come with adolescence. Curiously absent is any discussion of sexually transmitted diseases such as AIDS. An important aspect of the book is the encouragement given to its audience to seek the counsel and advice of supportive adults such as parents, counselors, and ministers. Included is a list of helpful resources such as crisis centers like the National Suicide Prevention Hotline or Covenant House and informational websites such as kidshealth.org. Overall, this book can be a useful guide for kids and their parents as they try to navigate the tricky waters of growing up. Reviewer: Heather Christensen