Girlology Hang-Ups, Hook-Ups, and Holding Out

October 1, 2007
Gr 7 Up-This sequel to "Girlology: A Girl's Guide to Stuff That Matters" (2005) focuses on body issues, dating, sexuality, and adolescent health. Chapters address topics such as boyfriends, gynecology, body image, drugs and alcohol, and sexfrom birth control to STDs. Each section starts off with fictionalized mini-dramas that highlight the chapter's theme. Following the open-ended scenario, the narrative is formatted in a Q & A style and concludes with "Think It Through," featuring a flow chart demonstrating outcomes based on different choices. The early chapters are pretty straightforward and nonjudgmental in tone, but the later chapters, particularly those dealing with sex, take on a sharper tone, employing scare tactics to encourage readers to be safe. The authors put the burden of sexual responsibility firmly on female readers and caution them that boys think only of themselves and their pleasure. This slightly overbearing attitude may instruct readers but it also has the potential to turn off teens looking for unbiased medical information."Elaine Baran Black, Georgia Public Library Service, Atlanta"

Copyright 2007 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.