Fact Friday and Arc Review: Welcome to Your Period! by Yumi Stynes & Dr. Melissa Kang

Image: Candlewick Press

Welcome to Your Period! by Yumi Stynes & Dr. Melissa Kang.170 p. Walker Books US/ Candlewick Press, January 12, 2021. 9781536214765. (Review of arc courtesy of publisher.)

Fact Friday features Welcome to Your Period! by Yumi Synes & Dr. Melissa Kang. The human body undergoes tremendous change over the course of a lifetime. Perhaps no time is more challenging than puberty. It's a challenging and confusing time for both boys and girls, who are often embarrassed to ask questions about the changes happening. This fun, frank book was originally published in Australia. It explains everything curious (and terrified) girls might want to know. The reassuring, conversational tone makes the reader feel like she's listening to a big sister. 

Lots of art (B&W in the arc, but full color in finished books) informs as well as entertains. Gender issues are addressed in one chapter. There's even a chapter for boys, who really should learn about this stuff too.* The book concludes with a list of vocabulary and resources including who to follow on social media, apps and podcasts.

Welcome to Your Period! releases on January 12, 2021 and belongs on every library shelf. Knowledge is power. 

*I sat all four of my sons down as they hit puberty. I put a box of condoms and a banana on the table and demanded that they use one every single time AND learn all about the menstrual cycle and ovulation. #1 son laughingly told me that he was shocked to learn that his college gf and her sorority sisters had no idea when they ovulated!