My girlfriend's pregnant! A teen's guide to becoming a dad

*Starred Review* This unbiased and well-rounded guide to teen pregnancy not only offers valuable information on a sensitive topic, but it also specifically addresses young fathers, who are often ignored in the conversation at large. Through the liberal use of testimonials, the text offers candid accounts of the shock and fear associated with finding out about a partner's pregnancy as well as the unexpected joys of fatherhood. Before getting into the details of what pregnancy and parenthood entails, Shantz-Hilkes asks readers to consider how having a baby will change their life (Will it alter their school or career plans?), and whether they want or can even afford to raise a child though she notes that decisions about a woman's body are hers alone. The author then offers clear and concise chapters on pregnancy and childbirth, parenting (both in and out of a relationship), abortion, adoption, and dealing with stress. From start to finish, this resource is designed to support and reassure young men while helping them make informed decisions. Of particular merit is the book's inclusion of positive parenting experiences, and its debunking of the stereotype that most teen fathers are absent or disinterested in their children. Though the illustrations are often incidental, the information is solid and balanced, glossing over neither the strain nor the pleasures of becoming a father. A valuable book for teen collections.--Smith, Julia Copyright 2015 Booklist

Gr 9 Up-Intended to provide teen fathers-to-be some support and guidance, this book sheds light on a variety of topics: pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting; the different options ahead (keeping the baby, adoption, abortion), how to deal with the relationship with the mother, and how to manage stress. Interspersed throughout are firsthand accounts from men who became fathers in their teens or early twenties. The style is matter-of-fact, and the author is reassuring ("There's simply no right or wrong answer when it comes to staying in a young relationship affected by pregnancy."). Serviceable black-and-white drawings begin each chapter; images of cell phones, flash drives, and speaker icons sprinkled throughout seem irrelevant to the topic. VERDICT This work could be a valuable resource for the targeted audience.-Elizabeth Kahn, Patrick F. Taylor Science & Technology Academy, Avondale, LA © Copyright 2015. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.