"I kept wanting it to happen. When it did I remember thinking, 'It's about time.'" "I was worried at first. Then it really wasn't so bad after all."
"I remember my brothers weren't allowed to hit me in the chest anymore. I was kind of pleased about that."
What mysterious condition are these now grown-up girls talking about? Ah, yes, puberty! With scads of personal stories and an abundance of useful, detailed information about girls' changing bodies and feelings, author Lynda Madaras and her daughter Area Madaras have expanded their guide for girls on the verge of change. First published in 1983, the bestselling classic has been revised and updated several times over the years to keep up with ever evolving facts and wisdom about puberty in girls. In this third edition, the authors continue their straight talk on the menstrual cycle, reproductive organs, breasts, emotional changes, puberty in boys, body hair, pimples, masturbation, and all the other fun, scary, and interesting things that go along with growing up. Filled with anecdotes, illustrations, diagrams, and honest, sensitive, nonjudgmental information for the young girl, the revised edition also addresses the new scientific facts about when a girl actually begins puberty (earlier than previously thought), advice on "female athletic syndrome," eating disorders, unwanted attention because of early development, and information on eating right, exercise, AIDS, STDs, birth control, and so much more. A welcome, reassuring book for parents and daughters, designed with the understanding that some girls and parents will want to read it together, and some will want to read it on their own; without a doubt, though, all will benefit. Got boys? Don't miss What's Happening to My Body? Book for Boys. (Ages 8 to 15) --Emilie Coulter
About the Author
Lynda Madaras is the author of eleven books on health, childcare, and parenting, including six from Newmarket Press. Lynda is recognized worldwide by librarians, educators, reviewers, parents, nurses, doctors--and the kids themselves--for her unique non-threatening style, excellent organization, and thorough coverage of the experience of adolescence. For more than twenty years a sex and health education teacher in Pasadena and Santa Monica, California, she has made numerous appearances on Oprah, Today, Good Morning America, CNN, PBS, and is quoted often in newspapers and magazines. She lectures frequently to teachers, librarians, nurses, health professionals, and parents' groups. She lives in California. Area Madaras was just 11 when she assisted her mother with the first "What's Happening to My Body?" book, published in 1983. (In fact, Lynda began to write it with her daughter, when she realized that there was no book available to give to Area at that time of her life.) In the ensuing years, Area has collaborated and continues to consult with her mother on other books in the Series. She has an M.A. in Communications from the Annenberg School at the University of Southern California, and has been working for six years in Internet site and content development. She lives in California.
