Book Review
Short Summary
What’s Going on Down There? was written by Karen Gravelle for most young boys aged 8 to 12.
It was originally published in 1998 and republished in 2017. She also asked for the help of two boys aged 11 and 13 in writing this book, giving her a good perspective of what the book’s target audience really want to learn about in terms of puberty, sex, and growing up.
What This Book Is About
The book answers the questions young boys have about growing up but sometimes find it hard to ask. The book covers topics like:
- Our bodies
- Changes that happen during puberty
- How girls are also changing
- Sex and how babies are made
- Different methods of contraception
- How to stay healthy
- Questions and answers
- Sexual orientation and gender
- Sexual Harassment
Reflection and Comments
This is a chapter book which some children especially older tweens prefer. Please keep in mind that there are also a few lines in the 1998 version that have been changed, such as a quote where it says that boys can be a lot more aggressive than girls.
In general, the book takes a direct non-judgmental approach and ensures that most of the discussion on body parts, pregnancy, and making babies are biologically accurate. It even debunks common myths young boys hear about penis size and masturbation.
As always it’s best to go through the book first to see if the content is something that aligns with what you want your kids to learn about puberty and sex at the age where it is right for your child.
Buy a Copy of This Book
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You can buy a copy of this book online. If you are in Australia, we recommend you purchase via Booktopia or Amazon Australia. If you are in India, you can purchase your copy from Amazon India. For all other countries, you can click the Amazon US button below and you will automatically be redirected to your local Amazon page.
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