Period.

This book is an absolute must to give a copy of to any girl who is approaching puberty! It is published in the popular format of a graphic novel. I was fortunate enough to have been given good reading materials, plus a parent who would talk to me about things. Many young people do not have people in their lives who they know they can talk to, and get accurate information. This book is similar to those I had in the 1960s and 1970s, but discusses more up-to-date products and options, and discussed other issues, including PCOS, endometriosis, infections – and even choosing to stop your periods. It tells you about common things, and brings up issues you want to bring up with your doctor or other medical professional.

On page 35, talking about leaks at night and what to do to prevent them or how to clean them, I was disappointed that the one my mother told me of decades ago which I used throughout my life was not included: Use a dark-colored towel, preferably an old one, between you and the sheet. These days, there are also disposable pads with a plastic backing sold in pharmacies, and even reusable pads with a moisture barrier.

The possibility of reusable, washable pads was brought up in the section on pads, but they were left off of page 44 when talking of products that lessen the effects on the environment.

It’s sad though that there had to be the warning about safety and privacy when using an ap on a phone, but it’s great that it’s in the book as to warn people in advance a but this book did a wonderful job of putting the warning in a sentence about how someone's period data can be used, monetized, or abused. That's a topic for another (long) book,

I appreciated the diversity shown in the drawings of the people in the book. All of the groups represented deal with the same things, and in the same choices of ways.

This book was great! I loved how informative it was while also being lighthearted and fun. There was a lot of really good information!.

Great introduction to periods for young readers. The book does an excellent job of breaking things down step-by-step both in terms of how the body works and how period products are used while leaving room for more detailed discussion with a trusted adult. I really feel like it will give kids the vocabulary they need to discuss these issues with their pediatrician. I also appreciated that it took a measured approach on positivity - there are some characters who are excited for their period and others dreading it just like there will be a range of readers looking for answers. The discussions of PCOS and endometriosis at the end are pretty rushed so I don't know how much a young reader will understand from them, but again hope they'll at least have the vocabulary now to ask their doctor if they're experiencing a problem period. Appreciated how inclusive the book is - avoiding lots of gendered language, saying that if you've got a uterus you're likely to get a period, and acknowledging that periods may cause stress related to gender identity. Thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for the chance to read early.

What an excellent book! I work in primary education and I'm also a doula, so this is something I know has been missing. It's medically accurate, developmentally appropriate, and gender inclusive. Highly, highly recommended.

This is a great informational book for kids to understand what will happen when they get their periods, what options they have, how to use menstrual products, and much more. I really appreciated the diversity in the characters, not just in racial diversity but gender identity. They deal with issues like PMS, spotting, problems that might arise, etc. It is all presented in graphic novel format with text bubbles and black and white facts.

If anything I would worry that my youngest daughter who will be needing this sort of book soon might get the impression that things are going to be a lot worse than they are. There’s a lot of talk about things like what to do if you can’t get a tampon out, stain someone else’s sheets on a sleepover, bleed profusely and so on. While it’s good to cover all these things I wish it had been more reassuring and also a bit more positive about the whole thing. That said, it’s a great resource.

I read a temporary digital copy of this book via NetGalley.

As a cis woman this book would have been handy when I was a pre-menstrual teen to prepare me for everything my teachers and family didn't cover. This book could prevent anyone who has periods from feeling alienated by their own bodies. This book would stop misconceptions before they could occur and prepare many people with wombs and ovaries for a potential future that would occur for them. Though the book is aimed for pre-menstrual people it is accessible for people of all age ranges including terms like endometriosis which could have anyone understand possible issues they may have with their menstruation.
The illustrations are brilliant and truly encapsulate the inclusivity of this book. By using terminology such as people with ovaries allows inclusivity for trans, non-binary, gender fluid and intersex people, as well as those who prefer scientific terminology using menstruation instead of periods or my favourite 'shark week'. Even some of these euphemisms are addressed in this book. The mayo clinic thought this book out thoroughly and I would like to read any other books that concern pre-teen and teenage medical issues, of which I may recommend to fellow teachers.

I am so glad there is a book like this out in the world. Everyone needs to read this to help anyone who has or will have a period.
I think it has good information and has inclusivity.
Will be adding this to our library collection as soon as it comes out.

Thanks NetGalley for this ARC

I grew up with the quintessential “The Care and Keeping of You” as my main resource for all things puberty and periods. I’m so excited to have an updated, contemporary, and digestible alternative with PERIOD.

This graphic book is accessible for children and the adults in their lives. This is an excellent resource for everyone - regardless of whether they expect to have a period some day or not. It’s important for young boys and young trans girls to learn about periods so that they know how to be good friends to those in their lives with periods.

Some things I feel this book does really well:
• easily digestible glossary alongside the traditional glossary
• mindful of children who live in multiple homes or travel frequently
• advice regarding digital safety and privacy with period tracking apps
• inclusion of menstrual cups and period underwear!
• a discussion on adjusting your period supplies to be more environmentally friendly
• discussions regarding medical issues and reasons for delayed puberty

things I wish this book did better:
• explicitly said that trans men might have periods too
• more explicit options for stopping your period - parents might not know that there are options for younger period havers

Overall I think this would be a great addition to any child’s library, for classrooms, and for anyone wanting a tool to discuss periods with the people in their lives.

4.0 stars. Great little quick guide with loads of information. I appreciate the racial and gender diversity. As a school nurse, I am so glad that this book recommends speaking with the school nurse. This is a great starting guide. It did lose a star for comparing a tampon to a gun, complete with "pew pew" noises. This is absolutely unnecessary and should be removed from the final print. There is no need to encourage gun culture. Especially in a book for children.

If you know you aren’t ready with all the answers regarding periods or if you are young and shy/confused when it comes to periods, no worries!
Just get this book when it comes out. And I am so glad this comic book on periods has provided most of the answers that youngsters ask and doubts about when it comes to this topic.

We know that even adults are just as reluctant to ask or answer questions related to periods. I feel even us adults are going to learn a lot from this read.

Well crafted with lively young characters, interacting among themselves, seeking answers, feeling less weird (cos we can’t say we can’t even when we know all the answers but it’s start!). Love the art style and the well written dialogues.

Short but just the perfect gift for the ones who really need this book.

Thank you, Mayo Clinic Press Kids, for the advance reading copy.

This was such a very helpful graphic novel. This goes into great detail at what its like to be a young girl getting their period. This book lets us know what happens with the body and how the female reproductive system works.

It lets us know the multiple products we can use to manage our periods. These products are disposable pads, tampons, menstrual cups, period underwear, and reusable pads. How to be more environmentally friendly while on your period.

Also helps with those who struggle with their Gender Identity. Those with heavy periods and those with conditions such as PCOS and Endometriosis.

This was very informative and it's something I wish I had when I was going through that when I was going through puberty and dealing with extreme heavy periods.

I'm constantly amazed at how much more frank and detailed books like this are then the ones I was told to read as a young person.

I wish this book had existed when I was a kid. What a comfortable and informative way to learn about periods and menstruation. I love that this book is inclusive and speaks about all genders getting periods, not just girls. It also has a wonderful section on how adults can talk to kids about periods and how to deal with any emotional discomfort they might feel.

This was a comprehensive, yet easy to digest graphic novel all about menstruation. It is similar in style to books like “Any Body” and the body books by American Girl. I appreciated that it tackled misconceptions surrounding aspects of having a period and was inclusive to non-binary and trans people. It offered a lot of options for people, emphasizing that everyone will have a different experience, but that periods are a natural part of life. I think this book would be good to put in the hands of a middle grader.
(Thank you to the publisher for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.)

How far we've come. I think of my day, where you just figured it out. Or didn't. I think of my daughters, who got the basic information, but not details like these. This book has the right tone for girls who might be nearing their first period. The illustrations are cute, and also similar to a graphic novel, which will draw girls in. Best, though, this book answers the questions girls might have. What do I do if the tampon gets stuck? What happens to my body when I'm having my period. What kinds of items are out there that they might want to use (cups, pads, tampons.) You get the idea. Do yourself a favor and and get this book. If your child isn't nearing her period, get it and put it aside until it might be needed.
Thank you to Mayo Clinic Press Kids and NetGalley for an e-ARC of this title in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

As a doctor working in obstetrics and gynaecology this was a must for me as I am a big advocate for normalising period talk.

On the whole I like the design; it's fun, colourful and definitely appealing. The drawings have a wide variety of representation: girls of different skin tones, more traditionally "boyish" in appearance, some in wheelchairs... I love it!

However, some of the pages were a bit cluttered with lots of speech bubbles in a small space, making the order you are meant to read them in confusing. Minimising the amount of speech and including things such as list or bullet points could be more accessible.

Gender-inclusive terms are used such as "if you have a uterus" rather than "girls", but interestingly it isn't explicit what a uterus is. As a 12 year old (or younger) looking for information, would they necessarily know?

Towards the end there is a line about numbers to call for help but these aren't included. This itself isn't a problem as website themselves are more helpful across different countries (and obviously wouldn't show up on phone bills if they are worried!).

I really like the inclusion of causes of irregular periods like PCOS and endometriosis - the book acknowledges these are uncommon causes of problems in teens, but naturally they will come up in a Google search!

I would love to see a more explicit mention of pregnancy. Having sex and not having periods = risk of pregnancy, even if you used protection. A couple of sentences about contraception (not just in the glossary at the back) and pregnancy tests would be great. Also it might be worth including causes of more frequent/irregular bleeding (not just less!) such as bleeding after sex may be caused by an STI so see a doctor.

On the whole a great little book, very inclusive and informative without being overwhelming.

thank you netgalley!!
this is a super informative book all about periods for young folks. while it was pretty thorough and I definitely would have found a lot of it helpful as a young person, I do have a few qualms.
mostly, I think the organization is pretty confusing. it's styled like a graphic novel, with lots of different characters and TONS of speech bubbles. toooo many speech bubbles. many times the speech bubbles don't even connect to the person who is supposed to be speaking, or multiple speech bubbles will be connected as if coming from one person when in fact it's meant to be a conversation between two people. the characters also make a lot of jokes or little interjections while information is being delivered that I found confusing. I think it definitely can work! but the delivery here didn't land. overall, the delivery felt a bit clunky.
I also thought that there could have been more time and care spent on who has a period, it's mentioned briefly and it is inclusive, but it's kind of brushed over.

This graphic novel is a great tool to educate people with uterus about getting periods. It is a great resource to introduce periods with out any weird graphics. There is multiple characters that are very diverse in thoughts and opinions on their period. I think there is probably someone in this book that everyone can connect with. It may also be a good tool to educate those that do not get periods so they know what to expect. It is more geared for those with uterus however can be shared with anyone. Each chapter talks step by step what do when or before you get your period. It is a great tool.

I received an ARC copy of this book. All thoughts are my own!

A really lovely book! It gives all the nitty gritty information people with periods need all while being fun, entertaining, and inclusive. I enjoyed how real this book is with periods and how it focuses on normalizing it for first time period-havers. The book answers a lot of good questions while still engaging the reader and making them comfortable. Would definitely use this book with a student who just started their period.

Absolutely in love with the imagery - kids love graphic novels and this is a huge way to support that. I love the diversity of characters. I absolutely love the "what if" this happens scenarios. The chapter on PMS hasn't been done before in a lot of kids books - definitely needed and fulfilled here. I will 100% be buying this book when it comes out for our family library.

Period is a kind, accepting, informative and loving explanation of the menstrual cycle for young persons, told through a comic book format. I really enjoyed the artwork and the characters, they guided us through topics such as different period products, and what occurs biologically in the uterus.
My favorite part was that this book included a transman/non-binary person as one of our guides. Everyone with a uterus will have a cycle- it’s important to see diverse people in educational books. There was even mentions of experiencing gender dysphoria, and advice on what to do if you experience those feelings.

This is a great, empowering book about menstruation that I wish I had when I was growing up.

What every uterus-owning human needs before entering puberty. This comic-style book is engaging, awkward, and truthful. It goes into great detail on how to manage periods in a no-nonsense straightforward way that is so relatable. This is a great puberty book that solely focuses on periods, and doesn't really drift into the aspect of relationships or anything else. A great starting point for managing periods!

Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.

📚 Book: "Period.: The Quick Guide to Every Uterus" by Ruth Redford, illustrated by Aitana Giráldez.

🌟 Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

Review:

"Period." is an incredibly informative and empowering book that tackles an essential topic often shrouded in silence and taboo: menstruation. Ruth Redford, along with the beautiful illustrations by Aitana Giráldez, has created a comprehensive guide that not only educates but also celebrates the diverse experiences of individuals who menstruate.

The book covers everything from the biology of the menstrual cycle to the emotional and physical changes that occur during this time. Redford's writing is clear, concise, and accessible, making it suitable for readers of all ages and backgrounds. She effortlessly combines scientific information with personal anecdotes and stories, ensuring that the book remains engaging throughout.

One of the standout features of "Period." is its inclusive approach. Redford emphasizes that every uterus is unique and that there is no "right" or "normal" way to experience menstruation. She addresses the diversity of bodies, identities, and experiences, ensuring that readers feel seen and validated. This inclusivity extends to discussions of menstrual products, providing information and options for all preferences.

Aitana Giráldez's illustrations are vibrant, charming, and add an extra layer of depth to the book. They beautifully capture the range of emotions associated with menstruation, making the content even more relatable and engaging. The illustrations also contribute to the book's inclusivity, representing a diverse cast of characters.

"Period." is not only a valuable resource for individuals who menstruate but also an excellent tool for education and destigmatization. It's a book that encourages open conversations and promotes understanding and empathy. Whether you're a young person navigating their first period or an adult seeking to expand their knowledge, this book offers a wealth of information and perspective.

In conclusion, "Period.: The Quick Guide to Every Uterus" is a must-read for anyone interested in learning more about menstruation and the experiences of individuals who menstruate. Ruth Redford's informative and inclusive approach, combined with Aitana Giráldez's stunning illustrations, makes this book both educational and enjoyable. Let's break the silence, celebrate our bodies, and embrace the power of knowledge!

#BookReview #PeriodTheQuickGuideToEveryUterus #RuthRedford #AitanaGiraldez #MenstruationMatters

This is a no-Nonsense guide for Girl children and must be introduced to the curriculum of Sex education for all middle-graders. Quite a knowledge it contains.

There is so much about a female body and its how it reacts to any changes scheduled basis on age. It will surely work as a manual for teenagers and make them aware as well as ready for any mis-happening due to lack of knowledge. Every girl deserves a navigation through her complete age till being adult.

I would recommend every parents to let their daughters read this book even if they are in dilemma for how to convey the knowledge on the so called taboo subject and fill the gaps.

With a comic style, Period. by Ruth Redford and illustrated by Aitana Giraldez (Mayo Clinic Press Kids, August 2023) gives tween girls a friendly introduction to the menstruation process. The subtitle is “The Quick Guide to Every Uterus.” Three friendly cartoon friends have a conversation, giving young kids characters to relate to in a way that does not feel awkward, and the instructional text on each page gives accurate and straight-forward explanations, using proper medical terminology.


Why is it that we find it awkward to discuss menstruation? I sure remember it feeling that way when I was a youth. Since my daughter is a tween-going-on-teenager, I’m trying to be more open and less taboo about the natural functions she’ll be going through.

Period. gives a great overview of mensuration. The beginning shows an accurate illustration of the female reproductive system and a brief but thorough explanation of the menstruation process, from ovary to period. Other chapters give ideas on being prepared for a period, expecting your first period, managing a period, overcoming challenges and worries, dealing with PMS, and more. Period supplies are explained, including pads, tampons, menstrual cup, and period underwear.

The non-menstruation aspects of puberty are not expanded upon: once it suggests that puberty brings “sexual thoughts and feelings,” and the same page mentions zits, hormones, hair growth, and breast growth as symptoms of puberty. These concepts are not expanded upon beyond that. One of the three menstruators illustrated has short hair and may have been included in order to portray a trans male, but the term is never used in the text and, of course, such a person would still have a uterus and therefore need this book.

In less than 50 pages, the book covers a wide variety of issues in a very compact and kid-friendly manner. It certainly is a “quick” read as the subtitle suggests, and yet it covers just what a kid needs to gain familiarity and comfort with the idea of starting menstruation.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance review copy of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This was a perfectly age-appropriate guide to menstruation! The information was presented in a fun way, without being too silly, and factual and frank in a way that was refreshing. This would be a great addition to a school library (or school health office), and also perfect for newly-or soon-to-be- menstruating preteens

This is my new go-to book for teaching young people with uteruses about periods. With a topic that can feel overwhelming and anxiety-provoking all on its own, I love that it is laser-focused on periods, without straying too much into other topics, like puberty, body image, and sex. It addresses the complex feelings and many of the taboos around periods, validating young people’s experiences while also providing facts and advice to help them navigate those experiences. While there is a brief description of what periods are, much of the book focuses on how to manage periods, such as organizing a period pack and product options, as well as how to navigate common challenges or concerns such as getting your period when you’re not at home or the ultimate nightmare of bleeding through on someone else’s sheets. Where was that advice when I was 11?

FANTASTIC! ⭐ I honestly can't recommend this more highly. It is great that periods are slowly starting to become a normal thing to feel comfortable talking about.

This book was legitimately fun and also funny to read, it is SO well put together. The different characters are a blast and I loved their back and forth banter and how everyone was different. They are very easy to engage with and relate to.

This covers everything. What is a period? What can you use? Any embarrassing situations and questions?.. it's all there. I wish they had a book like this when I was young! ❤️ 😎

This is a much needed book to help children navigate this new experience. I appreciate the illustrations and facts. Great job!