Yay!!!! We made the New York Times children's book review!!!!!!!!!!!
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/05/27/books/review/you-know-sex-bodies-gender-puberty-and-other-things-cory-silverberg-fiona-smyth.html
"If your kids have reached the point where things are
excruciating, or just more complicated, they might be the perfect audience for
“You Know, Sex,” written by Cory Silverberg and illustrated by Fiona Smyth (the
award-winning team behind “What Makes a Baby” and “Sex Is a Funny Word”).
At more than 400 pages it’s a comprehensive look at
sexuality, body differences, body autonomy, gender, puberty, consent,
menstruation, reproduction — the whole shebang. As I read it, I was overcome
with joy that kids will have access to such an engaging resource. (By
comparison, I recall receiving a three-panel pamphlet at school produced and
printed by a menstrual products company. Thanks, Playtex!)
The pure energy of Smyth’s art sets the tone for the entire
work. Her bold colors make the subject matter feel like a celebration rather
than something quiet and private. The characters aren’t just diverse, they’re a
veritable rainbow of skin tones. They’re also relatable and beautiful while
openly challenging social constructs about conventional beauty. The scenarios
she draws take on our culture of racism, colorism, ableism, body shaming and
more, with empowering results.
Silverberg’s writing is fearless, digging into the messiness
of the human experience with an eye toward justice. Here is that rare voice
that can talk about the hardest things kids go through in ways that are
thoughtful, lighthearted and always respectful of their intelligence.
This is not your everyday puberty resource.
“You Know, Sex” is an important book, and not only for the
breadth of issues it covers. Silverberg portrays adolescence with tremendous
honesty, and demonstrates a clear love for young readers.
In an age when many adults are turning away from providing
kids with the information they need to grow and thrive (I’m looking at you,
“Don’t Say Gay” legislators in Florida!), here is a kids’ book that discusses
things like nonbinary and trans identities, variously shaped clitorises and
penises, H.I.V. stigma, sexual pleasure, miscarriage, asexual feelings and
abortion. It gives kids an opportunity to explore these real aspects of living
in the world, on their own timetable and at their own pace — without resorting to
internet porn. (Oh yeah, it also talks about porn.)
While L.G.B.T.Q. and other marginalized communities are
often relegated to the periphery in kid lit, here they play a central role. All
our identities, bodies, families and emotions are embraced, so all readers can
feel seen, “normal,” valid and connected. Isn’t that what every adolescent
needs?
Silverberg has two outstanding abilities. First, to present
tough topics in a warm, human-centered and affirming style. Second, to help
kids figure out the answers to their questions by reflecting back at them the
humor, pathos and raw beauty of adolescence.
Adults, too, should read “You Know, Sex,” as it counters the
harmful narratives around sex and bodies with which we’ve all grown up."
NEW YORK TIMES: Rachel
Brian, animator of the “Tea Consent” video, is the author of two books for
young people: “Consent (for Kids!)” and “The Worry (Less) Book.”
.jpg)
