Asking about sex & growing up A question-and-answer book for kids

Gr 4-6-Cole employs the same question-and-answer format and much of the same text as in her 1988 title (Morrow). She offers straightforward information about topics such as physical changes in puberty, masturbation, birth control, pregnancy, homosexuality, and STDs. Minor changes include lowering the age of the onset of puberty and substituting trendier names for characters (e.g., Olivia for Sharon). Sections on AIDS, birth control, and homosexuality have undergone more extensive alterations to incorporate new medical information and societal changes such as moves to legalize same-sex marriage. The most striking change in the book's appearance comes from the new black-and-white illustrations that replace the previous edition's line drawings. Thomas's wide-eyed preteens sport modern hairstyles and clothing. Most are Caucasian, and all are slim, attractive, and perky. The author continues to emphasize the importance of parent-child discussion, although she has eliminated her list of recommended resources. Libraries with the original book will want to replace it with this edition. Others should consider adding it as a source of basic information for curious preteens.-Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University, Mankato (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.