Everything You Need to Know about Sexual Abuse

School Library Journal

Gr 4-6 There is a real dilemma in writing about sexual abuse for children. They need information and the reassurance that if they are victims they can get help. At the same time, there is the danger of overwhelming young readers with information that they are not prepared to handle. The author of this factually accurate self-help book has shown poor judgment in graphically describing scenes of sexual abuse, including several instances of incest and two of sexual coersion between children. While these explicit stories could prove helpful in a therapeutic situation, they are potentially terrifying. Rather than strengthening children, this book may increase feelings of vulnerability, distrust, and despair. Carolyn Polese, Gateway Community School, Arcata, Calif.