Consent (for Kids!): Boundaries, Respect, and Being in Charge of You

In a graphic novel follow-up to her viral animated shorts Tea Consent and Consent for Kids, debut author Brian takes readers through lessons about consent and boundary setting, delineating appropriate responses to violations and modeling healthy relationships along the way. Eight short chapters break down larger concepts into specific situations and equip young readers with knowledge of their rights, identify various relational red flags (abuse of power, control, inappropriate grooming, etc.), and offer ways to articulate and assert themselves. Readers are also invited to reflect on their own behaviors and encouraged to practice asking for consent, listen with discernment, and safely support friends in difficult situations. Brian’s flat drawings in a webcomic style are rendered in grayscale and accented with turquoise. Characters with stick-figure arms and legs reflect a range of ages, skin tones, and physical abilities. What’s remarkable is how Brian expresses such serious, complicated subject matter so concisely and thoroughly, with simplicity and tone-appropriate wit and humor. The result is a digestible, memorable volume meant to spark enlightened action: “CONSENT TAKES PRACTICE. The more that people around you practice consent, the more natural it is for everyone.” A useful, well-executed resource. Ages 6–10. (Jan.)