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! 

Middle Grade Monday: Queen of the Sea by Dylan Meconis

Image: Candlewick Press

Queen of the Sea by Dylan Meconis. 400 p. Walker Books/ Candlewick Press, June, 2019. 9781536204988. (Review of finished purchased copy.)

Happy Labor Day Monday, TMS Readers! Today is my last day of summer vacation. I plan on finishing my 91st book today. If it rains, I might be able to squeeze in a 92nd.

Middle Grade Monday features a gorgeous MG graphic novel debut called Queen of the Sea, written and illustrated by Dylan Meconis. This rich and atmospheric tale takes place on a tiny island off the coast of Albion and is told by Margaret, an orphan, who is being raised by the nuns who live on the island. It's a work of fiction, but loosely based on the story of young Queen Elizabeth I. 

We learn of life on the wind-swept, mostly barren island. The inhabitants work hard and have contact with the outside world only twice a year, when a supply ship arrives. Occasionally, the ships arrive with new residents, as in the case of William and his mother; and, later, an unexpected ship with the arrival of a mysterious "prisoner." 

The art is luscious—pen and ink and earth toned watercolor. The paper is creamy and the book has some heft. There's a lot of dialogue to follow, which might require some rereading. Queen of the Sea is a thoughtful, suspenseful yet humorous tale that will stretch your graphic novel wings. Hand Queen of the Sea to your graphic novel fans as well as fans of historical fiction. Highly recommended! It's also getting a bit of well-deserved Newbery buzz.