From School Library Journal
Gr 4 Up-All teens should be knowledgeable about the hormonal onslaught that pumps through their bodies, transforming their looks and affecting their moods. This book is geared to boys with "developmental disabilities." It explains basic information that includes body changes in growth, hair, skin, voice, and feelings. It is not a sex guide though it does not shy away from emerging sexuality. The simple language is deliberately clear and direct, enhanced by several black-and-white anatomical illustrations. Probably the most essential message is that children and young adults need to be aware of inappropriate physical contact and not become victims. Special-needs children and teens are particularly vulnerable due to their dependency on others. An important section is "Public or Private," which differentiates between what is appropriate and understanding what is not. While this is an important resource for parent, caregivers, and pre-pubescent and pubescent boys, there are some weak spots. The author's use of slang to keep the text familiar and approachable makes the book immediately dated. She refers to couples as "sweethearts," and makes comments like, "Shaving the hair on your face can help you look clean." Yes, but not shaving may make you look movie-star cool, and this side of teen attitude is ignored. The frequent use of exclamation marks becomes annoying. All in all, though, this volume will come in handy in addressing a subject area that is frequently avoided.-Alison Follos, formerly at North Country School, Lake Placid, NYα(c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review
Puberty tends to hit us all like a bag of bricks. The Boys' Guide to Growing Up: Choices & Changes During Puberty is a practical advice guide for preteens and young teenagers as Terri Couwenhoven advises boys through this time of transition, dealing with all of the changes that barrage one during this time, dealing with everything from acne, hair, strength, and those pesky girl things. The Boys' Guide to Growing Up is worth considering for the young future man in one's life. --Children's Bookwatch, December 2012
With its reassuring tone and straightforward style, The Boys' Guide to Growing Up is not only an excellent addition to any sex education collection, but also fills a unique niche by addressing the needs of boys with intellectual disabilities. --CAPHIS Consumer Connections
About the Author
Terri Couwenhoven, M.S., is an AASECT certified sexuality educator who specializes in working with people who have intellectual disabilities, their families, and the professionals who support them. She is the author of Teaching Children with Down Syndrome about Their Bodies, Boundaries and Sexuality: A Guide for Parents and Professionals and The Girls' Guide to Growing Up, both published by Woodbine House. When she is not teaching, she is Clinic Coordinator for the Down Syndrome Clinic of Wisconsin at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin. Terri has two daughters, her oldest has Down syndrome.
