The Care & Keeping of You 2: The Body Book for Older Girls

Gr 5–7—This follow-up to the popular Care and Keeping of You (American Girl, 1998) is written for slightly older girls, with more in-depth information about puberty and menstruation. Navigating through all the changes a body goes through can be a challenge-even for the most confident of girls-and this title has a calm, measured tone to reassure readers that these changes are a normal part of growing up. The four sections focus on "body basics" like good hygiene and height prediction; "girl stuff" like breast development and menstruation; "It's All in Your Head," which focuses on mood changes and body image; and "Your Body, Your World," which discusses managing relationships with family and friends. The friendly illustrations support the overall tone and style. This book can be a great conversation-starter for parents and preteen daughters-especially for those who may be anxious about approaching the whole puberty and growing-up issue. Its neutral, matter-of-fact approach will help show readers (and their moms) that all the changes they may be feeling are perfectly normal.—Elaine Baran Black, Georgia Public Library Service, Atlanta