9 puberty books for girls

As told to Adah Nuchi and illustrated by Meg Hunt, Workman Publishing. This book is the ultimate guide to everything growing up (and we mean everything) from changing bodies, to new feelings and everything in between. It’s written as if readers found this awesome guide while at summer camp filled with all the secret tips, advice and wisdom of those that came before them. $20, amazon.ca

Written by Margaret Blackstone and Elissa Haden Guest, HMH Books for Young Readers. Ah, puberty. It brings both physical and psychological changes, but Girl Stuff explains them all. Preparing for a first period, dealing with unwanted zits and the torrent of new emotions—all this is covered. With quotes from girls about their personal experiences, illustrations, explanations of what happens to girls and boys, and what to expect as puberty approaches, this book is great for girls who have lots of questions and are ready to learn about their changing bodies. $13, indigo.ca

Written by Valorie Schaefer, American Girl. With this series, the American Girl empire makes it easy to transition from the little-girl doll phase to the next stage: reading about how girls’ bodies change. Recommended for eight- to 10-year-olds, this book offers advice on early puberty, information about buying a first bra, tips on eating healthy and puberty facts from experts. $13, amazon.ca

Written by Cara Natterson, American Girl. This is the next American Girl book, for ages 10 and up. It deals with peer pressure, physical and emotional changes, personal care, and a girl’s developing body (in more detail). With puberty happening earlier and earlier, some tweens may still be playing with their American Girl dolls when they start to notice their body changing. $15, amazon.ca

Written by Lynda Madaras, William Morrow Paperbacks. This informative and sensitively-written book was selected by the American Library Association as a “best book for young adults.” Girls age 10 and up will appreciate the real-life stories and down-to-earth style. It also tackles challenging and sometimes difficult-to-discuss topics such as sexually transmitted diseases and anorexia and bulimia. If you like the tone of this book, Madaras—whose background includes more than 20 years as a sex and health education teacher—has also written A Growing-Up Guide for Parents and Daughters, intended to start discussions and teach about appropriate Internet resources for nine- to 15-year-olds. $19, indigo.ca

Written by Karen Gravelle, Bloomsbury Press Agency. A girl’s first period is a huge milestone, so it’s crucial to be prepared and know what to expect. Aimed at younger kids, this easy-to-read book is written with a sense of humour. Gravelle describes the female anatomy and reproductive organs, of course. But she also covers the practicalities, like how to use pads and tampons (with helpful illustrations). If only this book had been available when we were growing up. $13, indigo.ca

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