Sex is a Funny Word

Sex is a Funny Word is a graphic novel-style book about bodies, relationships, and growing up, aimed at children ages 8-10. The book follows four pre-teen characters as they learn and ask questions about gender, sexuality, and relationships. The text uses comic panels, conversations between characters, and straightforward explanations to address topics like bodies, boundaries, and identity. Medical terms are presented alongside common words children might hear, with an emphasis on respect and consent. The illustrations portray diverse characters of different races, abilities, body types, and family structures. The book maintains an informative tone while acknowledging that conversations about sex and bodies can feel awkward, silly, or confusing. This inclusive guide approaches sexuality education through a social justice lens, emphasizing bodily autonomy and self-determination while validating various ways of experiencing gender and relationships.

Parents and educators commend the book's inclusive, shame-free approach to discussing bodies, gender, and sexuality with children ages 8-12. Readers appreciate the diverse representation of families, body types, and gender expressions in the illustrations. Positive reviews highlight: - Clear explanations without overwhelming detail - Interactive discussion prompts for families - Scientific accuracy combined with age-appropriate language - Addresses consent and boundaries - Accommodates different family values and cultural backgrounds Common criticisms: - Some parents feel content is too mature for target age group - Religious readers object to gender identity discussions - A few note it could better address puberty specifics Ratings: Goodreads: 4.5/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.6/5 (900+ ratings) "Perfect balance between informative and accessible," notes one parent reviewer. Another states, "Helps start difficult conversations without awkwardness." Some conservative reviewers say it "promotes agenda beyond basic sex education" and "introduces concepts parents should control timing of."

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🌟 Author Cory Silverberg is a certified sex educator who has worked in the field for over 20 years, focusing on inclusive education that embraces all bodies, genders, and experiences. 🌟 The book won the 2016 Stonewall Book Award - Mike Morgan & Larry Romans Children's & Young Adult Literature Award, recognizing its excellence in LGBTQ+ representation. 🌟 Unlike traditional sex education books, this one is written in comic book format with vibrant illustrations by Fiona Smyth, making complex topics more accessible to young readers ages 8-10. 🌟 The book deliberately avoids gender stereotypes and includes characters of various ethnicities, abilities, and family structures, reflecting real-world diversity. 🌟 Rather than focusing solely on biology, the book addresses broader concepts like respect, trust, and body boundaries, helping children develop a healthy foundation for understanding relationships and consent.