In an introductory note to her book aimed at adolescent girls, Cattrall, who played Samantha Jones on Sex and the City
, tells readers that she wants to share "my personal journey through some of the same challenges and decisions that you're about to face as your world starts to change and expand." Her advice-filled narrative is indeed highly personal, recounting in detail many of her own experiences as an adolescent, a young woman and an adult. Cattrall candidly addresses such topics as developing self-esteem and a positive body image; discovering one's own sense of style; the importance of good nutrition, exercise and sleep; plus coping strategies such as understanding dynamics among family members and friends, dealing with "toxic cliques" and the "queen-bee mentality," and dating and sexuality. The author, who at 16 moved alone from her small Canadian hometown to New York City to attend theater school, repeatedly underscores the value of knowing oneself and of taking risks. Her message is surely valid and consistent, yet the text in some spots ricochets from one topic to another, and the writing is occasionally murky ("Dealing with unhappiness can also help you understand how to navigate your emotions when bad things really do
happen"). Fans of Sex and the City
will most appreciate the copious photos of Cattrall and her references to the characters on that show. Marf's jaunty cartoons give this volume a lighthearted look. Ages 12-up. (Oct.)
