This work answers questions about abortions in accessible and compassionate terms.
This debut picture book explains what an abortion is, reasons for getting one, and reactions afterward.
In this unusual work for children 8 and older, Manes, an abortion doula, brings a humane spirit to the subject. Pages display one or two sentences with the cheery, tropical-colored illustrations taking up most of the space. Young readers are told that when a person gets pregnant, the result may be a healthy birth, a miscarriage, or sometimes an abortion, defined as “when someone decides to stop growing their pregnancy.” To keep a pregnancy from growing, individuals could see a doctor who performs a procedure or take medicine. The text explains that people have different reasons for abortions, including that a pregnancy would make them ill. The important point is that it’s their decision. Afterward, they may have varied feelings, but “they deserve to be treated with love and respect.” A note asserts that the book aims “to be a resource for young people who are curious about abortion” or know someone who has had one. Observing that “folks of all different gender identities have abortions,” the author employs inclusive language throughout. Explanations are clear though somewhat skimpy; for example, what does a “procedure” consist of? While one image shows a clinic’s exterior, most of the pictures by illustrator Emulsify depict smiling, happy people of diverse races, abilities, and gender identities; bright interiors; or attractive landscapes and flowers, boosting the affirmative tone.
This work answers questions about abortions in accessible and compassionate terms.Pub Date: N/A
ISBN: N/A
Page Count: -
Publisher: Self
Review Posted Online: Sept. 1, 2021
Review Program: Kirkus Indie
Teachers may find this well-meaning guide useful, but it won’t be top-of-mind for most children.
An earnest introduction to a secular mindfulness practice.
After introducing basic vocabulary and definitions, Stewart explains meditation and breathing techniques using the metaphor of a toolbox. Seven more chapters provide detail about how to apply the tools to the inner self, emotions, thoughts, actions, heart, home, and outside. Some chapters include guided visualizations. Each includes broad journal prompts and encourages the use of the Mindful Me Activity Book (sold separately). The final chapter reminds readers that mindfulness is a practice that takes time and attention. Stewart is careful to not guarantee specific outcomes and leaves the choice of how and when to use the exercises open to readers. Still, repetition of similar points and her earnest tone sometimes come across as preachy. Older children may find the self-conscious, repeated use of the branding phrase “MINDFUL ME,” instead of simply “mindfulness,” patronizing. In the introduction, Stewart claims 12 benefits to mindfulness practice that “scientists and doctors have discovered” but cites no studies or sources to support this assertion. There is a nod to inclusion with illustrations showing a child in a wheelchair and another with glasses, as well as children with varying skin tones and hairstyles. However, middle-class assumptions and values permeate the situations used to explain the technique, as in the assumption that readers will have their own bedrooms, or indeed quiet rooms at all, to retreat to.
Teachers may find this well-meaning guide useful, but it won’t be top-of-mind for most children. (Nonfiction. 8-12)Pub Date: April 1, 2018
ISBN: 978-0-8075-5144-8
Page Count: 32
Publisher: Whitman
Review Posted Online: Feb. 2, 2018
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Feb. 15, 2018
BOOK REVIEW
BOOK REVIEW
BOOK REVIEW
An excellent addition to the “growing-up” shelf.
A medical doctor and a registered nurse answer questions about puberty collected over years of experience conducting classes for young people and their parents or trusted adults.
Questions about body changes; feelings; friendships and relationships; sex, sexuality, and gender identity; and babies reflect preteen concerns, are loosely organized by subject, and are answered honestly and informatively. The dos-à-dos format (girls’ queries on one side, boys’ on the other) has the advantage of allowing readers to concentrate on their own issues but also to explore the ways others think. The authors have specialized in adolescent health care for over 30 years; their understanding of and sympathy with the age group are evident. Often the answers include gentle reminders that families and cultures differ; the young readers should also be consulting parents or trusted adults—there are even helpful suggestions for how and when to approach sensitive subjects. This revision of a 2012 title includes many of the original questions and sensible answers but has been expanded to reflect today’s changing attitudes and understandings about gender fluidity. Young people with a range of hairstyles and skin tones are shown engaged in various activities—alone, with one another, and with adults. The design, helpful diagrams, and occasional appealing illustrations have not changed significantly, but the new information will make this a sensible purchase even for those who own the first edition.
An excellent addition to the “growing-up” shelf. (Nonfiction. 9-12)Pub Date: Aug. 21, 2018
ISBN: 978-1-63217-179-5
Page Count: 224
Publisher: Little Bigfoot/Sasquatch
Review Posted Online: May 22, 2018
Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 15, 2018
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