THE CONFIDENCE CODE FOR GIRLS

This junior version of The Confidence Code (2014) encourages pre- and early-teen girls to crack the Code, building the skills they need to meet challenges with “Why not?” instead of “No way!”

Confidence is “that incredible energy when you find your courage and try something that’s not easy,” and the book’s goal is to help readers discover their individual codes. It is divided into three sections, each culminating with one of the Code’s three elements: “Risk More!” “Think Less!” “Be Yourself!” The authors suggest readers begin a “Confidence Notebook” in which to do the book’s activities, including “Confidence Warm-ups” and “Your Turn” exercises, as well as take “Confidence Quizzes” and puzzle out “Confidence Conundrums.” “Girls of Action” and “Confidence Close-ups” sidebars profile real girls and their confidence struggles and triumphs. Featured girls include Amiya Zafar, an American Muslim boxer who fought to wear her hijab during bouts; Cordelia Longo, an Asian-American girl who worked to make sanitary products free in her school; and the transition journey of a girl named Toni who was born “Tony.” “Quick Quotes” from real girls, cartoon illustrations (with a commendably diverse cast), and faux hand-lettering provide lots of engagement. Backmatter includes a lengthy list of resources and endnotes, both of which provide a trove of information from reputable sources.

Needs to find its way into the hands of anyone who ever identifies as a girl.