My Body Belongs to Me
PreSchool-Grade 2—Presented in story format and narrated by a young child in rhyming couplets, this short book encourages children who have been sexually abused to talk to someone they trust. Written by a prosecutor of sex offenders, it is intended to begin a discussion on a topic that may be uncomfortable for parents but is vital for children since many of them do not know whether or how to tell someone when they are touched inappropriately. Youngsters are reassured that they are not to blame when this happens. Average-quality watercolor and colored-pencil illustrations on solid white backgrounds face a page of large-print text. "Suggestions for the Storyteller" gives advice to parents on how to broach this subject, while two pages of "Where to Find Help" give related phone numbers and Web addresses. In only 19 sentences, this simple book will empower children while promoting open communication.—Maryann H. Owen, Racine Public Library, WIEND