Harris, Robie H. It’s Perfectly Normal: Changing Bodies, Growing Up, Sex, Gender, and Sexual Health. Michael Emberley, Illus. Non-fiction. Candlewick, 05/2021. 108[+20]pp. $24.99. 978-1-5362-0720-0, PB $14.99 978-1-5362-0721-7. OUTSTANDING. GRADES 4-8.
For the twenty-fifth anniversary of this groundbreaking children’s sex ed book, Candlewick Press has released a new and revised edition. This fifth edition has updated and expanded material on gender, birth control and abortion access, sexual abuse, and sexually transmitted diseases as well as other topics. Notably they’ve included information on Internet access to sexual information as well as tips on responsible use of the Internet for tweens and teens. It’s Perfectly Normal has been one of the most challenged books since its first printing due to the clear illustrations and accurate information about sex. It depicts human bodies, multiple types of sexual connections, and clear descriptions of birth, pregnancy, and puberty. It is also notable for presenting people of various ages, body types, physical abilities, and skintones. The authors have worked with numerous specialists including pediatricians, obstetricians, therapists, lawyers, and educators to provide scientifically accurate and up-to-date information in each edition of the book. This newest edition is highly recommended for library collections and home libraries.
Rachael Reiley, San Jose State University, iSchool