Wendy Darvill and Kelsey Powell, The Puberty Book (6th edition), Hachette, 28 June 2016, 224pp., $24.99 (pbk), ISBN: 9780733635496
Between them, authors Wendy Darvill and Kelsey Powell have backgrounds including nursing, education, family planning and medical education – and it shows. The Puberty Book, in its sixth edition, has been fully updated to include current information, statistics and internet resources, and since its first publication in 1995, has eased the minds of thousands of Australian children and their parents.
Using child friendly language and accurate information, The Puberty Book discusses all aspects of growing up – social, emotional and physical. Clear headings make it easy to locate and read relevant information and, as concepts are grouped under chapter headings, other similar topics come to hand readily.
Each chapter includes questions from kids; a great inclusion which makes the issues real and personal, and allows readers to identify with questions and feel comfortable that they are not the only one wondering. ‘Did you know?’ sections offer facts and figures to support the ideas being described, and may be a smooth conversation starter for anyone having trouble voicing their questions or thoughts.
Even if you understand the concepts and know the facts, finding a way to express those ideas without stress and concern can be a minefield for many of us. Darvill and Powell have it covered across any topic you could imagine. In a world where advertising, misinformation and social pressure are greater than ever, this concrete, accurate and reliable source of ideas and information is a beacon of safety when it comes to the wellbeing of our naive but maturing children.
Suitable as a read-alone for kids, a share-and-chat book or as a resource for parents, this book is a must have for every household with prepubescent children.
Reviewed by Katie Bingham