Period Book

With the help of her 15-year-old niece, Karen Gravelle hits her mark with this accessible guide for adolescent girls. Frank and at times funny, the book focuses on changes that occur during puberty, specifically those accompanying menstruation. Though the scope is, intentionally, not as comprehensive as many handbooks on adolescence, the authors address nitty-gritty, practical details not usually included in such tomes (e.g., tips on improvising a sanitary pad). In addition to answering a range of ""What if?"" questions that would be embarrassing for many girls to ask, the authors also cover such subjects as what to expect from a visit to a gynecologist; living with pimples, cramps and ""weird emotions""; and how to communicate better with parents. A comforting chapter about physical development draws an important distinction between being ""normal"" and being ""like everyone else."" Though sometimes silly or clicheed, Palen's cartoon illustrations echo the candor of the text and reinforce its kid-friendly approach. Ages 8-up. (Mar.)