Period Power

November 1, 2018

Gr 7 Up-The founder of health and education organization PERIOD, weaves together the story of how brands, governments, and media companies shape the cultural conversation surrounding menstruation. From the outset, Okamoto's progressive perspective is clear: the stigma around periods contributes to discrimination. Beginning with a practical guide to safe and popular period products, the author follows with chapters on how periods are discussed on TV, how periods affect those who are homeless, and how periods relate to the concerns of intersectional feminism. While providing historical context and statistics to back up her claims (all of which are thoroughly cited at the end of the book), Okamoto also provides practical information on how readers can participate in ongoing efforts to destigmatize menstruation. She also provides information on organizations working to change legislation or provide no- or low-cost period products to people who are at-risk. Okamoto makes a point to use gender-neutral language throughout the book, explaining that periods do not only affect cisgender women. In every chapter, Okamoto informs without casting shame and presents a distinctly political point of view in a way that's conversational and affirming to myriad experiences. VERDICT Part health guide, part manifesto, this book has the potential to become the next go-to book for teens looking for more information about their bodies.-Madison Bishop, Plymouth Public Library, Kingston, MA

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