Menstruation (found 597 titles)

Period.: A Girl's Guide

Authors: JoAnn Loulan, Bonnie Worthen
Publisher: Book Peddlers, The
Publication date: 2001-01
ISBN: 0916773965
Pages: 100
Rating:
Price: $9.99

The start of hormonal changes can be troubling, even traumatic, for young girls. Now fully revised and updated with a parents' guide, Period explains in a straightforward manner the changes all girls go through, answers common questions, and includes a brief description of a pelvic exam.

Customes reviews 23

Very informational (2009-08-30)

I purchased the books for my step daughters who have pre-puberty stage daughters. The books are very thorough, as well as educational.

The book is very graphic, so it will not be used for educational purposes until the grand daughters are are older, and have started menstruating.

Really good basic female anatomy book/periods (2009-07-02)

Really good basic female anatomy book that explains periods. Does not get into sexual intercourse/activity...but does explain how sperm and egg must get together...which is great because you can decide to explain the details or not. There is a chapter that explains a pelvic exam...which I could have done without. Would prefer to explain myself when my 9 year old gets older. Still waiting to review other books...havent decided on this one yet.

PERIOD a girls guide (2009-06-29)

Excellent resource for young girls - I highly recommend this book to all my patients and their parents.

Were there other editions? (2009-03-01)

My family had an earlier edition of this book when I was a kid (I'm 26 now and read it long before menarche at 13). I think it was a special edition for the Asian market because some of the girls in the pictures were dressed in Western clothing and some not.

Anyway, I don't have much to add to previous reviewers' comments - it's a very good, basic, and straightforward guide to menstruation. The only major issue I wish they had included was "how to deal with leaks"...

Good. Period. (2008-10-24)

This book does exactly what it says on the cover. It sticks to its topic in a simple and easy-to-understand way. It makes it less scary for girls going into this phase of development. It can't replace a mom or other female adult's comfort, however.

My Little Red Book

Authors: Rachel Kauder Nalebuff
Publisher: Twelve
Publication date: 2009-02-26
ISBN:
Pages: 240
Rating:
Price: $9.99

MY LITTLE RED BOOK is an anthology of stories about first periods, collected from women of all ages from around the world. The accounts range from light-hearted (the editor got hers while water skiing in a yellow bathing suit) to heart-stopping (a first period discovered just as one girl was about to be strip-searched by the Nazis). The contributors include well-known women writers (Meg Cabot, Erica Jong, Gloria Steinem, Cecily von Ziegesar), alongside today's teens. And while the authors differ in race, faith, or cultural background, their stories share a common bond: they are all accessible, deeply honest, and highly informative. Whatever a girl experiences or expects, she'll find stories that speak to her thoughts and feelings.

Ultimately, MY LITTLE READ BOOK is more than a collection of stories. It is a call for a change in attitude, for a new way of seeing periods. In a time when the taboo around menstruation seems to be one of the few left standing, it makes a difficult subject easier to talk about, and helps girls feel proud instead of embarrassed or ashamed. By revealing what it feels like to undergo this experience first hand, and giving women the chance to explain their feelings in their own words, it aims to provide support, entertainment, and a starting point for discussion for mothers and daughters everywhere. It is a book every girl should have. Period.

Customes reviews 32

An Old Bloke's Fuddy-Duddy Bloody Study (2010-04-10)

The young Ms. Nalebuff should be commended for compiling these stories. It's sad that a book about a very natural condition of women is necessary in the 21st Century. Speaking as a 49-year-old man, I found a few things about period traditions that were interesting. Judy Blume's fictional book "Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret?" was the quasi-bible for young girls, the silly slapping-then-hugging custom or having your ears pierced after the "event" were all eye-openers for me. Also the two pages of euphemisms for a period were quite amusing. But ultimately, this really wasn't worth my time. The book is by and for women. It also doesn't include a very broad spectrum of people. Most of contributors are in the arts or academic circles and the stories quickly become repetitive. There's nothing wrong with that, but the book certainly isn't of the caliber of a Studs Terkel collection like "Working" or "Hard Times." Speaking as a guy, I learn more from a Barbara Ehrenreich book.

A treasure trove (2010-02-07)

I couldn't put this book down! As a woman, a feminist, and a historian, I loved reading all of the diverse accounts of menarche, across ages, generations, and cultures. Though many of the stories are from American women (many of them from NYC and Connecticut, as another reviewer pointed out), there are also some stories from India, Turkey, China, Ghana, Kenya, Australia, and New Zealand. Going from 1916 and extending to the Aughts of this century, the stories depict a range of emotions and reactions. I definitely related most to the stories of the girls who didn't know what was going on and the ones who sought to dispose of the evidence in secret because they either didn't know what was happening or because they didn't want their parents to find out. I probably did know I had gotten my period deep down, when I was eleven years old, but I was probably in too much shock or denial, after having dreaded and expected it for at least a year prior, and had also misread or misinterpreted what I'd read in Judy Blume. Like some of the girls, I didn't realise that a period lasts for several days, instead of just seeing some blood and it lasting five minutes! (My shame, secrecy, and embarrassment over my period really only ended when I was eighteen and discovered the beautiful Jewish laws of taharat hamishpacha, family purity, and ever since then I've embraced the monthly bleeding, now a withdrawal bleed instead of a real period due to being on the Pill, as a beautiful, feminist, empowering rite.) Even though their experiences were the cardinal opposite of mine, I did appreciate the perspective of the girls who were excited and told their mothers. One girl, the author's mother, even got her period in the presence of her grandmother, who was extremely happy and excited for her. Another story I related to was "The Invisible Period," where the author got her period while in Kenya and had the evidence discovered by her mother when she got home. Unable to believe she could have gotten her period and never known it, she claimed those were fecal stains!

Contrary to what a few other reviewers thought, I didn't think any of this book to be "inappropriate" for young girls. If a girl is old enough to menstruate (and thus be capable of reproduction, much as one hopes she won't be engaging in such activities till she's much older), or is approaching the time when she will, she's not some little kid who needs to be shielded from anything that's not G-rated. Young girls deserve to be empowered by this knowledge about their bodies instead of kept in the dark or, as I did, badly misinterpret or misunderstand what they might have read on the subject. (I was one of those kids who read too much and understood too little.) I also loved the vintage stories involving belts, and was actually disappointed when I asked my mother, who also read the book, if she still had hers around somewhere and she said no. This is a part of menstrual history, and young women today should know what their mothers, grandmothers, and great-grandmothers went through during that time of the month, both as part of an appreciation of history and to not take for granted how lucky they are today to have modern menstrual products instead of needing a belt. These stories also helped me to understand why my mother is so off-put by how I've chosen to switch to rewashable cloth pads, because for someone of her generation, that must seem like an inconvenience and a step backward.

The book ends with a list of alternate expressions for menstruation (missing my favorite vintage one, "being a lady"!) and information on how to submit one's own story and how to help young women in Africa who literally can't go to school because they lack feminine hygiene products. It also contains an index with the stories categorized by theme (such as disposing of the evidence, believing one was dying, celebrating it, and having menarche while on vacation), decade, and culture. I would highly recommend this book to women and girls of all ages.

NOT FOR KIDS!!!! (2009-09-27)

I got this for my 11 year old granddaughter. While I am getting a kick out of it- I hope most 11 year olds don't know about masterbation and sex.

Great book for young girls. (2009-09-25)

With my granddaughter coming of age I thought this would be a wonderful book to help in the transition...and it is!

Not very current for young girls (2009-09-07)

This is a book of essays from different women, all describing when their periods first started. Some of these women, however, got their periods back in the 60's, when they had to use sanitary belts. Kids these days do not know what those are! They make the story too dated and irrelevant to their lives.

I would have preferred essays by younger women that my daughter could better relate to.

Growing Up: It's a Girl Thing

Authors: Mavis Jukes
Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers
Publication date: 1998-09-08
ISBN: 0679890270
Pages: 80
Rating:
Price: $10.00

The bestselling "It's a Girl Thing" has a new little sister that's just right for younger girls curious about what puberty will bring.

Customes reviews 44

Educational, interesting, honest (2010-03-21)

I was given this book by my mother when I was 9. I am 24 years old now, and still remember what an important role this book played while I was growing up. I was an early bloomer and didn't have older sisters, so I didn't know too much about girls and puberty. While I had a close relationship with my mother, we didn't often discuss "body things." This book was perfect. It answered so many questions I had (and even some I didn't know I had) and made me feel comfortable with the changes I was experiencing. I liked that the author included her experiences with her mother and her own changes, as it made me feel more at ease with the idea that this is something everyone experiences.

I used the book as a starting point for conversation with my mother. I wasn't quite willing to ask my questions or express my fears in person, so I wrote notes in the margins of the pages I had questions about and then passed it along to her with those pages marked. Sometimes she'd write back to me in the book or on a piece of paper, or sometimes she'd come to me directly to explain and clarify.

I still remember and use specific information from this book, such as how to do an effective sponge bath at the sink. The chapter about good touch-bad touch (for lack of a better term) was a source of comfort to me when I experienced some "bad touch" a few years later. This book made me excited to mature and made me want to celebrate being a woman. I hope that, should I have daughters, they will have access to this information presented in such a wonderful way.

good book to start conversation (2009-10-19)

This book was an easy way to open a conversation about a difficult topic with my daughter. She found it easy to understand and even asked some questions after recovering from her embarrassment. I would recommend this book to anyone.

Not for girls of 2009 (2009-08-25)

Early in the book, it discribes the memory of a girl watching her mom manuever with pads and elastic belts and garters (because pantyhose haven't been invented yet). I am 44 years old, and this was before MY time. Why would my daughter need to hear about that aspect of the growing up process in Chapter #1 of this book. She will have enough new info to digest. This was a great book for it's time, but the time has past. There are better books on the market. This one needs to be revised. (The copyright of my book is 1998.)

Awesome! (2009-08-10)

I bought this book for my daughter when she was 12, she is now almost 18 and I am recommending it to a friend with a young daughter.

This book made it easy for my daughter to read by herself, but also made it comfortable enough for us to discuss together. It speaks in a language easy for pre-teens to understand and relate to, adding a bit of humor along the way. I recommend this book to anyone who is searching for a book that her daughter will WANT to read about puberty and all the "fun" stuff that comes with it!

All Questions Answered (2009-05-11)

This book was purchased for my 9 year old daughter who has had friends start puberty already. Since she has heard their side, I decided to buy a book explaining more of what is going on; especially if there were questions she was not ready to ask. After reading the book, she has gained an understaning of what to expect & even had information to give to the girls who have already entered into puberty. There are answers from bra styles to tampons! Although I am not ready for her to grow up, this book has prepared both of us for what will eventually come. I recommend this to all mom's who have pre-teen girls. This book is better than the advice their friends are giving them!

Flow: The Cultural Story of Menstruation

Authors: Elissa Stein, Susan Kim
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Publication date: 2009-11-10
ISBN: 031237996X
Pages: 288
Rating:
Price: $27.99

Customes reviews 20

Easy/fun read with academic/feminist spirit (2010-04-23)

This book is awesome. It has many pictures, well organized information, and the facts and opinions flow really well.

just going with the Flow (2010-03-10)

This is a fantastic book on many many levels. Elissa Stein and Susan Kim take on the discomfort of discussing "that time of month," talk about the awkwardness and then examine menstruation in a way that is sharp, smart, serious, laugh-out-loud funny, respectful, irreverent and best of all, friendly. It's not a science book, but it's not supposed to be one, but as a 40year old dude, I know a lot more about what goes on every 28 days today than I did before reading this book.

They look at the crazy misbeliefs about menstruation throughout history... crazy and still relevant today - some of Pliny the Elder's hypotheses and attitudes about the subject can still be found today, to some extent. In the context of the mysterious uterus (once believed to be a hamster-sized organ that travelled all over the body), they look at PMS, and medical treatments for "womens problems" including the doctor treating "hysteria" with "hysterical paroxysm" (including some involving water jets that today would be blocked by Net Nanny). It's not all fun and games, though, because the treatments also include hysterectomies and the fatal results of hormone-replacement therapy for post-menopausal women (once believed to be a benefit, the human trial of hormone treatments was stopped in 2002 when it turned out to significantly increase health problems across the board).

My favorite favorite favorite parts of this book discuss the role of marketing and advertisements for feminine products and how these have "educated" us over the years. Commercials with mysterious blue liquids! White swimsuits and beach images! The book is filled with gorgeous copies of print advertisements from the last century, from when Kotex was first advertised (convenient way to sell off bandage material from WWI), to images of freedom and freshness (white swimsuits and all) from the 70's and 80's to today. These are fascinating to see, especially with Stein and Kim discussing these ads and the attitudes of the times.

As something that really should be in a note for the paperback edition, when Apple's iPad was announced, the internet exploded with menstrual humor, but most hilarious of all was the official demo video that practically, unintentionally use much of the imagery from the last few decades of femcare advertising. I guess the marketing guys at Apple never paid attention to those campaigns.

Fantastic book - five stars. Really, it's a must-read, an excellent excellent book.

Amazing book with an important message, not just menstrual trivia! (2010-03-10)

This book is amazing. I read it cover to cover in about 2 weeks, and it only took that long because I teach full time and am in grad school. The main point of this book is that women's periods (and related processes such as menopause) have historically been viewed as dirty, wrong, or even diseased (this is not, of course when they're being ignored which also happens way too much), and such views have been used to explain and enforce why women are inferior, create feelings of shame and embarrassment, and make a LOT of money for various pharmaceutical and feminine care companies (often with little consideration of the affects on women's health or safety). However, the authors argue that these ideas (and the feelings they create in both women and men) are not only often outdated, wrong, and disturbing, but even possibly dangerous.

The information is the book was eye opening to say the least. I realized that many of the questions I had were shared by countless women, and I have a much better understanding of my body now. Many topics were addressed that I was not even aware of, and I have been studying this sort of thing for a while. I am so glad they talked about feminine care items, issues with mass produced items, and possible alternatives. Am I going to rush out and change how I do things? Probably not, but it's nice to have information that's current and presents both the positives and negatives. The amount of information in this book is astounding. On this basis alone, I have recommended it to every friend I have (even some of the men!). That the authors present this information with humor and honesty was very refreshing and kept me interested (this is not a dry, boring textbook!).

Is there an agenda in this book? YES! Arguably, there are several. Still, the most basic one, that women need to stop feeling dirty or embarrassed or ashamed, by a completely natural process which we pretty much all go through is one that I think almost every woman can support. The idea that women's needs should be addressed in a style that is most healthy for women (and maybe even the earth) instead of what will put the most money in the pockets of big companies is another one I think we can all get behind. Even the authors admit that some of the "pro-menstruation" stuff out there is a little much, but just because some of it is not your cup of tea is not a good enough reason to dismiss it all.

The authors lay all of the information to support their argument in a rather organized fashion, and the research seems pretty sound. There is a lot of information about historical views or actions, but most of them contribute to the overall point of the book. As mentioned, the humor is fun and keeps things moving. Some of the information was scary or infuriating, but in the "women need to know this is going on because it affects our health" way. A very little bit of it was down right icky, but again, mostly relevant and important. Overall, I would recommend to any woman to read (ok! at least skim) this book because I really feel there is a lot of truly important information here which I certainly have not found elsewhere. I highly suggest you read this book as I really cannot say enough good things about it.

Educational and entertaining! (2010-03-07)

I think that Elissa Stein is a quality person. That influences my review of the book. I got to know Elissa on Twitter. She is a really genuine person, and I think that she has tried to get a really good message out. I am a man, so most people wouldn't expect me to be interested in this book. However, I am interested in feminism. What I liked about this book is that it was a lighthearted introduction to ways that industry has intruded, for lack of a better word, in to the private lives of women vis a vis menstruation. The book is easy to read and draws the general reader in with its playful tone. The book is clearly intended to draw people who wouldn't otherwise be interested in the subject in.

I feel that the book is a good addition to the contemporary literature on feminism and society. This is because it is written in a friendly, accessible way, and people can absorb it easily and be entertained while getting a history lesson on gender inequality in the United States in the twentieth century. I admit that I did not finish the whole book because of how much other stuff I have to read--I generally skim most books--but I read the first few chapters in one sitting, and I definitely would have finished the book if I could have . This would be a really nice travel book for a vacation or a plane trip.

I have a friend who read the book, and she learned a lot. I am very glad to have introduced the book to her. I think this is a particularly good book for young women who are curious about how society has viewed menstruation.

SO GOOD! (2010-02-16)

I couldn't put this one down! Just try it -- you won't be disappointed! Then pass it along to every woman you know!

The Period Book, Updated Edition: Everything You Don't Want to Ask (But Need to Know)

Authors: Karen Gravelle
Publisher: Walker Books for Young Readers
Publication date: 2006-05-30
ISBN: 0802777368
Pages: 160
Rating:
Price: $9.99

Customes reviews 23

A reassuring, wonderful tool, especially for younger girls in puberty. (2010-05-03)

My daughter entered puberty at 9, and I bought this book for her at 10. We looked through it together, and the pictures and small sections (easy to read, short) prompted many questions from her. Because the book has short chapters and small, easily identified sections within chapters, a young girl -- who may not have the attention span of an older girl -- can skip around, just view the pictures and read shorter sections to get just enough information to satisfy. I had on hand a few different mini and maxi pads, which she then wanted to 'try on,' giving the information and pictures in the book a more realistic dimmension.

Book for 10year old daughter (2010-02-01)

My daughter was thrilled at the new level of confidence she gained from reading these books. I recommended them to other mothers of her friends and they too purchased the books. These books gave my daughter a way to supplement our talks with answers maybe she was too embarrassed to ask me. Parents should talk to their children about such matters but giving them additional "fun" material such as these books offers additional benefits.

............how do you title this one..... (2010-01-08)

A helpful book, however read it first. Yes you may call me a protective mom but there is a time for every child to learn those lessons in life. My 6th grader is not quite there yet. She's read the entire book with the exception of pages I tore out. She had a couple of questions but for the most part it covered it all and then some.

Right to the Point (2009-12-26)

great book for pre-teen, pre-puberty girls - written in their language
and a great lauching pad for conversations

Perfect for my daughter! (2009-09-17)

This is a great book. I just read it and am planning to read it together with my 10-year old daughter. This was recommended to me by a friend as a "timeless" book to learn about a girl's/woman's body. It's a straightforward, educational way to teach your daughter about the changes she will be (or is already) going through. I highly recommend it.

The Woman's Yoga Book: Asana and Pranayama for All Phases of the Menstrual Cycle

Authors: Bobby Clennell
Publisher: Rodmell Press
Publication date: 2007-04-04
ISBN: 1930485182
Pages: 256
Rating:
Price: $24.95

Customes reviews 7

A Wonderful Resource Book (2009-10-27)

I am a yoga instructor interested in therapeutic applications of yoga, with a speciality in Stress Reduction. Even though this book is meant for easing menstruation, I believe the poses recommended are good for the health of female reproductive organs in general, and therefor can have a wider application.

The book offers clear instructions, great illustrations of the poses, and a caring tone of voice. I include this book as part of my resources for the therapeutic yoga classes I offer.

Nancy Tan is the author of QUIET MIND, HEALTHY BODY: The Art of Low Stress Living

great timing!!! (2009-10-19)

it arrived so quick ,I placed the order and it arrived in a day or two the most.

Perfect for Practicing With On the Full Moon--and Rest of the Month! (2008-06-19)

My daughter and I both love The Woman's Yoga Book! Since today is the full moon, and women's cycles are influenced by the phases of the moon, I feel inspired to write a review of this lovely book.

Senior Iyengar Yoga teacher Bobby Clennell brings decades of yoga study and teaching experience to The Woman's Yoga Book. As other reviewers have noted, her writing style is clear, friendly, deep and nurturing. This book reflects her personal practice and many trips to India to study directly with the Iyengars. She is a core faculty member of the Iyengar Yoga Institute of New York and teaches yoga workshops and retreats throughout the United States and abroad.

The beginning of the book presents an overview of the history of menstrual beliefs and practices, examining how modern concepts developed and how ancient traditions from pro-feminine cultures can help us regain a healthy perspective of our body rhythms.

Clennell points out that because today's woman starts her period earlier and has fewer babies (or none at all) she can have between 350 and 400 menstrual periods throughout her lifetime, as opposed to the 100 periods that most women experienced two hundred years ago.

I was delighted with Clennell's emphasis on honoring the menstrual cycle. In an era where women are encouraged to medicate themselves and suppress the cycle, a book like this is sorely needed.

Clennell rightly emphasizes that we are living in a culture that encourages women to ignore the very thing that makes us different from men: cyclical hormonal rhythms. For all our advances in social equality, attitudes toward menstruation are only slightly more enlightened than in the past. The media encourages us to suppress symptoms with drugs, keep up outer appearances and get over it as quickly as possible.

Yoga teachers need to be aware that the young women students in their classes may already be taking one of the new experimental pills that promises a "lifestyle revolution" by eliminating periods and putting an end to premenstrual syndrome.

Bobby Clennell gives sequences for each phase of the menstrual cycle, from the premenstrual phase (supported bridge pose stabilizes mood swings), menstruation (restorative poses allow the body to rest), and the post-menstrual phase (inversions allow the body to cleanse and recover). By ovulation, when a woman is at her peak, her yoga practice has built back up to its full strength and variety. In addition, The Woman's Yoga Book offers solutions for a variety of menstrual and premenstrual problems, including amenorrhea (failure to menstruate), menorrahgia (excessively heavy periods) and dysmenorrhea (painful periods).

A former professional animator, Bobby Clennell has used her skill in creating over 735 illustrations. Two photographers took hundreds of photographs of the author on which she based the illustrations. The illustrations show variations of poses and, when necessary, how to come in and out of each pose. Clennell makes even the most complicated poses simple to comprehend.

This book is useful to a wide range of practitioners. Women new to yoga can practice with this book, and teachers will have a vast storehouse of information at their fingertips. I urge any teacher offering workshops on yoga and the menstrual cycle to recommend this book to their students.

This is a book for any women's health practitioner who is curious about how yoga works. It is a book that could lead doctors and other health professionals to refer more women to yoga classes.

The publishers, Linda Cogozzo and Donald Moyer are themselves longtime Iyengar Yoga practitioners and the clarity of writing I have found in all their books is unsurpassed!

--Suza Francina is a certified Iyengar yoga teacher and author of Yoga and the Wisdom of Menopause, and other books for people at midlife and older.

The woman's yoga book (2007-12-26)

I find this book very easy to follow, written in language I understand from taking classes in Iyenga yoga. The illustrations are clear and accurate. Each pose includes information on its benefits, and also information on when to avoid the pose. Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to improve their understanding of yoga poses and wishes to start or expand their yoga practice at home.

Must have for women (2007-11-12)

This has become my 'go to' yoga book. After using this book for only a month, I was cramp free for the first time in years. The illustrations are so detailed, it is easier to use than practicing with a DVD. Can't recommend it enough!

The Garden of Fertility: A Guide to Charting Your Fertility Signals to Prevent or Achieve Pregnancy--Naturally--and to Gauge Your Reproductive Health

Authors: Katie Singer
Publisher: Avery Trade
Publication date: 2004-04-26
ISBN: 1583331824
Pages: 320
Rating:
Price: $19.95

The Garden of Fertility is a guide to using fertility awareness-that is, reading fertility signals in order to prevent or achieve pregnancy. Certified fertility educator Katie Singer explains how to observe and chart fertility cycles to determine when a woman is most fertile to increase chances of conception, or to exercise birth control naturally-a method that, when followed precisely, is as effective as the Pill. Unlike other books on fertility awareness, The Garden of Fertility also describes how to use the charts to gauge gynecological health and offers nonmedical options for strengthening reproductive wellness. This book provides all the information women never learned in sex education class, but should have.

Customes reviews 15

Great book (2009-09-08)

I am really happy with this book. It is an easy read and is full of good info. My first time reading this type of book and I would recommend it to my friends. I think it is more designed for someone who is preventing pregnancy.

Vey informative (2009-08-20)

This book is extremely helpful if you are looking to understand your fertility at greater depth. I think that this book should be required reading for anyone who is sexually active. Knowing how to prevent pregnancy without using hormonal contraceptives is so important. I also love Katie Singer's comments on health and diet. I have been studying health for over 15 years and have found that the diet discussed in this book to be one of the most grounded, well rounded and practical diets around. I like that Singer gives sound advice on how to use supplements and diet modifications to balance your body that you would know about by observations form charting. I charted my cycles for 6 months and noticed that I was showing signs of low progesterone levels. I followed Singer's suggestions for increasing progesterone levels and have had several cycles in a row now with no signs of low levels. I have used this method of birth control combined with condoms at my peak fertility times successfully for over 10 years. I am now going to use the information in this book to help me achieve pregnancy. I have recommended this book and method of birth control to anyone who will listen.

The Garden of Fertility (2008-12-21)

Katie is a good friend and this book shows a unique ability to understand and explain the natural approach to female reproductive health. If you're interested in getting or not getting pregnant, Katie can tell you how to do it naturally.

Great informative book (2008-08-05)

I really enjoyed reading this book. I had been questioning staying on birth control pills for a while and this book helped me to comfortably come off the pill. I am still learning how to chart but knowing that I am gaining more knowledge about my body is a great experience in itself. I think too many times we rush to a doctor for pills and don't think of the harmful effects we could be doing to ourselves.

I don't mind Katie's information on the diet we eat. I think everything is up to you to decide what you want to eat or not. She is giving you the tools to make your own judgments.

Valuable and Educational (2008-07-15)

This book teaches the basics of female reproductive anatomy and physiology (valuable in itself), and then explains how certain signs indicate when a woman can and can't get pregnant. Fabulous! I suggest reading it well before you think you might need to use the system for either achieving or preventing pregnancy so you can learn all the signs your body is giving you. It takes a few months to see the patterns and get confident using the system.

The Period Book: Everything You Don't Want to Ask (But Need to Know)

Authors: Karen Gravelle, Jennifer Gravelle
Publisher: Walker Books for Young Readers
Publication date: 1996-03-01
ISBN: 0802774784
Pages: 128
Rating:
Price: $8.95

Called "warm and positive" by Booklist, this user-friendly book about menstruation and puberty doesn't just give the facts, ma'am: it addresses many private worries that girls may have a hard time talking about and offers truly practical tips that most girls have had to figure out for themselves -- the hard way. Light-hearted cartoon illustrations help keep the tone sympathetic and upbeat.

Customes reviews 49

the BEST period book EVER (2009-12-06)

Just gave this book to my 13yr old & she immediatly read all the way through it. She & I both really like this book. Makes it easy to talk about & gives good practical advice! if you have a daughter "coming of age" give her this book!
I had already given this book to my young cousin & a friend's daughter several years ago & they loved it then too!

Looking Back (2009-10-12)

I found this book on my bed when I was about to enter the sixth grade. I didn't read it immediately, but when I did I absolutely loved it. Ten years later I still have this book tucked in my bookshelf, and highly recommend it to any parent that has trouble bringing up the subject. I know some reviewers have worried over the small amount of "sex talk" in the book. But looking back that information prepared me for the future, and made me much less squeamish about the subject of sex around my parents. The book made me feel like they felt I was adult enough to know (or finally admit I knew in some cases)and made it much easier to talk to them about various issues in the future. It's earned my everlasting appreciation and I can't imagine not using it in the future when I have kids of my own.

Title Says It All! (2009-06-29)

I gave this to my dtr a few years ago and found it tucked under her pillow several times while making her bed over that 1st year. When she started her time, she was prepared (we also talked about it a lot) and I appreciated how this book covered some technical details that I would have missed!

Private book for young ladies (2009-05-18)

This book is great for young ladies to read along with a talk from an adult about preparing for her first period.

Tastefully Put. (2008-08-07)

This book is great to add to the conversation when it is time for "THE" conversation with your budding daughter.

Class Favorite

Authors: Taylor Morris
Publisher: Simon & Schuster MIX
Publication date: 2007-11-06
ISBN: 1416935983
Pages: 304
Rating:
Price: $5.99

"It all started three days after I officially became a woman -- the message of mass destruction arrived. It was February 14, to be exact. Happy Valentine's Day."

Sara Thurman has never considered herself part of the popular crowd - she's got her best friend Arlene and that seems like enough. But when Sara's mom sends a special Valentine's Day delivery to her class, all of a sudden Sara is very famous - only for a horribly embarrassing reason. It seems everyone at Bowie Junior High knows something about Sara that she'd rather keep to herself and the harder Sara tries to blend in the more she ends up sticking out.

Not only that, but it suddenly seems that Arlene doesn't have time for her anymore, and she has an unbearable crush on Jason who doesn't have any idea who she is (until now, that is). Worst of all, nothing's felt the same since Sara's dad left home. It all has Sara wondering if things will ever return to normal -- especially if she can't even remember what normal feels like. Sara can't figure out why it seems that everyone else has it easier than she does - would things be better if she were popular? Sara decides that if she can't beat 'em then she'll join 'em -- and she hatches a top secret mission to become....Class Favorite.

Customes reviews 9

Better for Younger Audience (2008-09-06)

All that Sara Thurman wants is to be popular. Unfortunately for her, disaster after disaster (or as disastrous as middle school can get) comes her way. Sara keeps on getting publicly humiliated, which doesn't help her goal at all, or so she thinks.

It all starts when she "becomes a woman." Sara's mom finds this out and sends Sara flowers. Unfortunately, the flowers reach the wrong destination, Sara's middle school to be exact, and everyone finds out about Sara's secret. Sara puts all the blame on her best friend Arlene because Arlene was the only person she told the secret to. Soon, another friendship develops with the new girl Kirstie, who helps Sara create a list of everything that will help Sara become popular.

When I first read the cover of this book, I thought oh no, not another one of these. But I was glad when it turned out that the main character was not one of those popular girls with all their problems, but someone from the opposite end of the spectrum, the girl with few friends who wishes she was more popular. I also did not expect the ending of this novel, but it was better than the ending I expected.

Sara's character is very believable, and so are her issues dealing with her friends, family, school, and boys. There's a much drama as there can be in a middle school, but I found that some of Sara's issues were overdramatized. There are a lot of lessons to be learned from this novel, including that popularity is overrated and that people aren't always who you expect them to be. I liked watching Sara grow and mature, and overall, this book was a good read. I recommend this for middle schoolers, and even if you are older, I think you can still enjoy this.

My Class Favorite! (2008-09-02)

Sara Thurman never thought she was part of the popular crowd. When Sara's mom sends her a special Valentine's Day delivery to her school, all of the sudden her world spirals downhill. Everyone at Bowie Junior High now knows something about Sara. She's afraid her best friend Arlene spilled the beans about those special flowers sent to her school, and turns to make friends with the new girl, Kirstie.

In between the frequently hilarious, yet quite embarrassing pranks that are being played on her, Sara remains calm and catches the eye of her long-time crush Jason... who admits that he never really even noticed her before now.

While her heart is breaking over the big fight with Arlene, she and Kirstie decide that she should aim for the stars, and make it their secret goal to get her elected as class favorite for the 8th grade. Worst of all, nothing has been the same since Sara's dad left home, and she can't even remember what normal feels like anymore. It's all got her wondering about the popular crowd, would things be better for her if she were one of them?

Overall it was a great book. Sara takes all of the embarrassing mishaps with pride and integrity, keeping her cool when she really feels like she is about to explode on the inside. After she destroyed "The Ball", and had all of those humiliating products shoved up her locker... even Shiner seemed to help her out in her time of need, showing that friendship is truly a gift to be cherished. Taylor Morris adds witty Texas humor to this book, often referring to the Texas paraphernalia, like cowboy outfits and hillbilly's with boots.

The author adds a quiz to the book by starting each chapter with a question. It adds a nice touch where you can see Sara's transformation throughout the quiz.

This book is a great summer read and flowed along very quickly. Two thumbs up!

Loved It (2008-03-08)

I loved this book. She had tons of embrassing things happen to her. That brings her closer to everyone except her bff because Sara blamed her for one bad thing. She got Jason, she forgave Kirsti and she didn't get Class Favorite but she was Class Courageous.

Courtesy of Teens Read Too (2008-01-04)

You think Junior High is tough? Ha! It's nothing compared to Sara Thurman's eighth grade year! It all starts when Sara finally "becomes a woman" and - get this - her mother sends her - PERIOD flowers! On Valentine's Day! Yeah. You heard right. Ever try to keep a secret in Junior High? Only one person knows who sent those flowers besides Sara, and that's her best friend, Arlene. You can imagine Sara's hurt and confusion when she realizes everyone knows why she got the flowers. And it's only lunchtime!

You've heard of Murphy's Law? You know: If something can go wrong, it probably will. And it does for Sara. Things go from bad to worse. To top it off, she and Arlene have their first ever fight in front of everyone. How can she trust her best friend when Arlene's the only one who could have betrayed her?

Luckily for Sara, she's made a new friend. She met her that same fateful day that she received her red-tipped, white roses. Together, they vow to turn Sara's embarrassment into a nomination for class favorite. They watch the popular girls. They read magazines and clip out pictures and articles. Soon, they have a list of things Sara must do to become popular, which Sara follows faithfully. Will the popular kids notice her? Talk to her? Will her crush, Jason, like her new look? And will she and Arlene ever be friends again?

Taylor Morris has captured the heart of an eighth grader in CLASS FAVORITE. The characters were believable, although, at times, I felt they just as easily could have been sixth or seventh graders. I feel certain that any girl who has ever wished to be part of the popular crowd will totally relate to this book. And because it made me laugh out loud more than once, I give it five stars!

Reviewed by: Cana Rensberger

love this book! (2007-12-26)

This book made me laugh out loud by myself AND in public. Sara Thurman is the perfectly imperfect hero of all the girls who feel like everyone else got the cliff notes on how to survive high school social life except for them. She's like the best parts of Tracy Flick and Amelia Bedelia combined. I love this book!

A Time to Celebrate: A Celebration of a Girl's First Menstrual Period

Authors: Joan Morais
Publisher: Lua Publishing
Publication date: 2003-12-27
ISBN: 0974630454
Pages: 112
Rating:
Price: $12.95

A Time to Celebrate shows the menstrual cycle as a gift and a healthy function of the female body. It is a book a mother, father, sister, aunt, grandmother, friend or mentor can give to a girl to celebrate her first menstrual period. This momentous time in her life should be recognized like all other occasions and her transition from girlhood to womanhood honored.

This book portrays a positive picture of menstruation which helps empower girls and teaches them to love, care for, and respect their body. The more a girl knows about her body, the more she will take control of it and make the right choices for herself.

Included in the book are charts for keeping track of her period and feelings, and a journal for writing her thoughts and creative expressions.

It is never too late to celebrate this time and make it a special rite of passage. Every girl should have a copy of this book even if she has already started her period.

Customes reviews 4

Not worth it (2008-03-02)

This "book" is about 80% journal pages and 20% info. I sent it back. It should be represented as a journal. I had to give it one star because the review system will not let you give it no stars.

Perfect Menarche gift (2007-03-23)

Love this little book of information and empowerment... I wish I'd had this book for my first period. So glad my niece and daughters will get this little gem amoungst other gifts in their "First Moon" gift box.

Amazing.... (2006-05-05)

What a wonderful Book....now that my oldest Daughter is going to have her first Period, her first time of Life-Change, the Book is the most wanted and needed Help. Even though i always said, that i will be able to explain the new Lifesituation to my Daughters when the Time comes....there were still reservations...How do I start? Where do I start? Wonderful drawings, and the best....structured like a Diary, to keep Track of the cycle! Thank you Joan Morais for this book....

Petra

A Time to celebrate (2004-01-09)

Joan, Where were you when I needed you? I wish I had the chance to have a book like this when I first started my period at the tended age of nine. I thought I was dying. I felt I was the only girl with the 'curse'.Y our book is what every young girl should read. This is a perfect gift for my great nieces. I purchased your book just for them. A Time to Celebrate encourages and tells young girls just how to how to celebrate their menses and to love themselves. What a great idea!

Janie Bess

Author of
Visions from God

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