DOING IT RIGHT

Pardes, who has a degree in human sexuality, here delivers a lot of information in short order. Topics covered in concise chapters include puberty, sexual readiness, protection, pregnancy, masturbation, sexual and gender identity, STDs and rape and abuse. The overall message focuses on the importance of doing what feels right; there is an assumption that teens are sexually active, although abstinence is mentioned. Poor organization in some sections detracts from the clarity of the information (some terms are used several times before being defined and there is no glossary; resources are sometimes mentioned more than once before websites are given). Also, some information is lacking or downplayed (difference between Herpes 1 and 2; risks of HPV; when birth control pills become effective). However, the topics are important, most information is accurate and the conversational tone will allow teen readers to take in the wealth of information. The resource chapter contains short lists of fiction (without annotations or explanation), related nonfiction (most published before 2000) and websites; additional websites are embedded in the text as appropriate. (Nonfiction. YA)