Book Review: 33 Things Every Girl Should Know: Stories, Songs, Poems, and Smart Talk by 33 Extraordinary Women
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What Parents Should Know
The diversity of contributors will appeal to a wide range of
interests, though some articles are more interesting than
others. The art is bland and monochromatic. Some mature themes
to discuss: Substance abuse, STDs, sexual abuse, dysfunctional
family dynamics, alternate lifestyles.
Common Sense Media Review
"Move!" "Get a Game Plan!" and "Ride the Waves!" are a few
of the entry titles that signal the essentially upbeat tone of
this "collection of girl talk." Designed to help girls navigate
the transition from kid to young adult, the book employs a
mostly feel-good tone.
The contributors have been there and done that, and these women sympathize and exhort, challenge and soothe, as they examine the joys and obstacles of growing up female. Contributions such as "Follow Your Passion," "It's Not a Crime to Love Science," and "Everyone's a Little Strange" reinforce a positive "I'm okay, you're okay" philosophy. This is a good rainy-day or take-to-the-beach book, one a girl can read as much of as she wants, in between daydreaming about her future.
Finding the entry you want can be difficult; in many cases, actual titles of contributions, according to the subjects' biographies, are different than those given in the table of contents. For example, basketball star Rebecca Lobo's piece is titled "Ten Tenets," yet the table of contents lists it as "Get a Game Plan!" Disappointingly, some of the contributor's biographies are more interesting than their entries.
However, teenagers will appreciate the book's respectful tone and the fact that it doesn't talk down to them. This is a well-intentioned, reassuring book for girls growing up.
Common Sense Media is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing information to help parents make media and entertainment choices for their families.
