Reading Shout-Out: Sex: A Book for Teens
Yes, the cover is provocative. However, this book should be everywhere teens are, for one reason only: It offers solid information that dispels the myths that attach to certain behaviors (such as what can and cannot transmit an STD or make you pregnant). I can't think of a topic it doesn't take on. Best of all, it is cautionary, not so much in a "thou shalt not" manner, but in a "if you are going to _____, make sure you ________ first" or "this might not feel good for everyone" way.
Sex: A Book for Teens isn't only concerned with the mechanics, but with legality (general guidelines about the age of consent), the emotional side of intimacy, (advice on how to, and not to break-up, and what to do after), and the importance of verbal communication throughout any aspect of a relationship.
It's is well-structured, too, with a page of thought-bubble Questions after every chapter, including one "There are no stupid questions--except for this one," which closes each. If nothing else, those questions will get a laugh.
Author Nikol Hasler hosts of "The Midwest Teen Sex Show," which is equally worth keeping an eye on: here. This is the sort of thing I wish had been around when I was a teen, as much for its pragmatic approach as its comfortable voice.
The only reason this is a shout-out instead of a rave is that it takes a narrative arc for me to be blown away by a book.
If you're a teen, please make sure you find a copy of this book. If you're the parent of an adolescent and not looking forward to The Conversation, read this book first. I respect your right not to share it with your teen, but I suspect you will find it helps you figure out what your child may already wonder about.