07/01/2018
Gr 9 Up—This frank, conversational, and often humorous look at sex, sexuality, gender, and expression is aimed at teens who identify as something other than heterosexual and cisgender. Langford, a bisexual therapist, sex educator, and parent, presents a wide range of information in short, if somewhat dense and visually unappealing, sections. Chapters tackle biology; puberty; body image (with a heavy emphasis on trans teens and dysphoria); intersex conditions; gender identities such as transgender, genderqueer, and agender; transitioning; dating and relationships; consent; and more. Sexual expressions and orientations covered include asexual, demisexual, gray-asexual, and bisexual, with conversations about erasure. A final chapter aimed at parents offers tips, a discussion of what not to do when one's child comes out, and more. Sidebars go into more depth on other subjects (tucking and binding, the singular "they," homophobia). Langford also discusses outdated terms and slurs. This inclusive, thorough resource respectfully presents information relevant to many queer teens and adults raising LGBTQIA+ kids. VERDICT Shelve this empowering guide where both parents and teens will find it.—Amanda MacGregor, Parkview Elementary School, Rosemount, MN
LGBT teens and their parents will find up-to-date information about a wide range of sexual topics that will help them make more informed decisions about how to navigate puberty and adolescence. Jo’s book is cutting-edge, with up-to-date information, and current thinking about these underserved populations.
Yes! Adults now have a resource geared toward the LGBTQ kids in their lives! Jo has an amazing ability to engage the reader in open, research-based discussion on sexuality. His natural style walks you through all the awkward, confusing, and sometimes humorous aspects of this part of human development.
Just a few pages in and I was already wishing I had this growing up. Jo takes a really warm approach to some of the more complicated aspects of either being queer or raising someone who is. Regardless of your child's identity, this is simply something every parent should read.
Longtime therapist and sex educator Langford has written an indispensable guide to a universe of things sexual and social for LGBTQ+ youth and their parents or caregivers. Written in an accessible and always empathetic style, the book is never dreary or didactic. On the contrary, though it deals with serious matters (some of them life-or-death), it manages its material with a light touch; the author has a sense of humor and, happily, it shows. The content is near encyclopedic, ranging from biology to coming out, from dating to “the religion thing,” and from casual sex to personal safety. It is particularly complete and enlightening in terms of its coverage of transgender matters, cutting through the thicket of confusing jargon that usually surrounds this nuanced consideration. Langford also gives welcome, timely attention to things digital, including porn, online dating, and safety. At a time when too many sex-education courses continue to ignore LGBTQ+ issues and kids, the book is essential in providing necessary information and, yes, reassurance, though the author is quick to encourage his readers to do their own research. Aside from its intended audience, this excellent book will be useful for therapists and teachers. It belongs in every library.
[Jo’s book] is excellent. Very thorough, informative and both youth and parent friendly. I think it is definitely needed within our community…school counselors and staff, therapists, and youth service providers will also find it to be a valuable resource.
[Jo’s book] adds a much needed voice on sexual orientation, gender, and gender identity. There is a wealth of well-researched information that is presented in a clear, easy to read, format. Educating yourself and your child on this integral aspect of their humanity is the first step in protecting their sexual health.
Longtime therapist and sex educator Langford has written an indispensable guide to a universe of things sexual and social for LGBTQ+ youth and their parents or caregivers. Written in an accessible and always empathetic style, the book is never dreary or didactic. On the contrary, though it deals with serious matters (some of them life-or-death), it manages its material with a light touch; the author has a sense of humor and, happily, it shows. The content is near encyclopedic, ranging from biology to coming out, from dating to "the religion thing," and from casual sex to personal safety. It is particularly complete and enlightening in terms of its coverage of transgender matters, cutting through the thicket of confusing jargon that usually surrounds this nuanced consideration. Langford also gives welcome, timely attention to things digital, including porn, online dating, and safety. At a time when too many sex-education courses continue to ignore LGBTQ+ issues and kids, the book is essential in providing necessary information and, yes, reassurance, though the author is quick to encourage his readers to do their own research. Aside from its intended audience, this excellent book will be useful for therapists and teachers. It belongs in every library.
[Jo's book] adds a much needed voice on sexual orientation, gender, and gender identity. There is a wealth of well-researched information that is presented in a clear, easy to read, format. Educating yourself and your child on this integral aspect of their humanity is the first step in protecting their sexual health.
[Jo's book] is excellent. Very thorough, informative and both youth and parent friendly. I think it is definitely needed within our community...school counselors and staff, therapists, and youth service providers will also find it to be a valuable resource.
Just a few pages in and I was already wishing I had this growing up. Jo takes a really warm approach to some of the more complicated aspects of either being queer or raising someone who is. Regardless of your child's identity, this is simply something every parent should read.
LGBT teens and their parents will find up-to-date information about a wide range of sexual topics that will help them make more informed decisions about how to navigate puberty and adolescence. Jo's book is cutting-edge, with up-to-date information, and current thinking about these underserved populations.
This inclusive, though thorough resource respectfully presents information relevant to many queer teens and adults raising LGBTQIA+ kids. VERDICT: Shelve this empowering guide where both parents and teens will find it
Yes! Adults now have a resource geared toward the LGBTQ kids in their lives! Jo has an amazing ability to engage the reader in open, research-based discussion on sexuality. His natural style walks you through all the awkward, confusing, and sometimes humorous aspects of this part of human development.
