Publishers Weekly Review
Moen and Nolan (Oh Joy Sex Toy, a collected volume of their webcomic, for adults) apply their signature corny humor and straightforward handling of sex to this accessible guide that covers the "in-between stages" of intimacy, "from having a crush to... putting a condom on something." In bite-size sections that each begin with a question ("What is... aftercare?"), teen characters engage in meaningful and nuanced dialogues about aspects of identity and physicality (e.g., body image, gender and sexuality, kinks, and safe sex). Via realistic scenes and conversational dialogue balloons, characters create a blueprint for exploring their own vulnerability ("I haven't done anything before? At all??") and supporting others' ("I'm really glad you told me"). Responsibly representing a wide array of anatomically diverse "generally estrogen-rich" and "generally testosterone-rich" bodies, this guide's pale-hued art also showcases variations in ability, body shape, ethnicity, gender identity and expression, and pairings, creating a refreshingly inclusive read that takes individual desires and needs into account. Though some text-packed pages can be difficult to digest, they nevertheless provide vital information, embracing the complexity of relationships ("We're all constantly learning and growing") and offering comprehensive, no-nonsense information on sex and sexuality. Useful back matter suggests further reading and resources. Ages 14--up. Agent: Monika Verma, Levine Greenberg Rostan Literary. (Mar.) |
School Library Journal Review
Gr 9 Up--Don't be afraid. Yes, there are drawings of naked bodies in this book (mostly in the "Body Image" section), and, yes, readers will learn about some of the ways the human body is wired for pleasure. And the detailed drawings of genitals are not solely in service of explaining how babies are made. But every panel of this book, every anatomical drawing, every conversation over tea or in a tent, is loaded with crucial information about consent, respect, consideration, and boundaries. A magnificently varied cast of characters confess their insecurities to their best friends, siblings, crushes, lovers, and hookups and in return receive reassurance, information, and practical advice. Readers will learn about a laundry list of activities, including sexting, masturbation, gender, and fantasies, along with health issues such as safe sex and a couple of the less pleasant aspects of relationships: jealousy and rejection. Moen and Nolan have been making comics about sex for years--their comic Oh Joy Sex Toy has even been exhibited at the Tate Modern in London. Moen's richly individualistic characters keep the pages turning, despite some fat word balloons--the result of personality-rich dialogue and precision, which is important when it comes to topics like identity and relationships. A palette of browns, pinks, and grays continues the celebration of bodies of all shades and shapes. A sprinkling of profanity (including the odd F-bomb) must be noted as it may affect a school library's ability to shelve it. VERDICT Real talk about relationships and sex.--Paula Willey, Enoch Pratt Free Lib., Baltimore |