"They Say..."

“Just as children must become literate in reading and capable in mathematics if they are to succeed in today's complex and rapidly evolving world, so they must also become knowledgeable about matters of sex well beyond the simple rudiments of human 'plumbing.’ Once the isolated province of parental responsibility, sex education for children ages seven to seventeen is now recognized as requiring the joint and cooperative participation of parents, teachers, and the children themselves. An expert and an author in the field of sex education for children, Carole Marsh has now written "Smart Sex Stuff For Kids 7-17: Practical Information & Ideas For Kids, Parents & Teachers", a compendium of information, advice, suggestions, and commentary that will prove invaluable in developing sex education curriculums, as well as parent-child discussions on this sensitive but necessary subject. The text is particularly 'reader friendly' and illustrated with cartoon-like artwork as everything from 'Recipe for a Baby', to 'Master Bation', to 'The Dating Game', to Sex Abuse/Rape, to the issues of pregnancy, abstinence, safe sex practices, love, morality and ethics. From the basic 'facts of life', to the emotional and social ramifications of being sexually active, to 'smart strategies' for boys and girls from puberty through adolescence, "Smart Sex Stuff For Kids 7-17" is an invaluable and strongly recommended resource and reference. Two other titles from Gallopade International on this topic by Carol Marsh which are also very highly recommended include: "A Period Is More Than A Punctuation Mark!: Smart Sex Stuff For Girls" and "Sperm, Squirm & Other Squiggly Stuff!: Smart Sex Stuff For Boys".

- Midwest Book Review, online

“In this excellent resource, Marsh covers a lot of basic sexual information but does not skirt the issue of AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases. This commonsensical, and sometimes humorous approach stresses choices based on information and maturity. It is geared for children as young as seven, with parental guidance. Young teems can read it on their own. Recommended for all public libraries.”

– Susan McBride / Library Journal

“If you have a child or student who refuses to read anything that looks like a textbook, this might get their attention. Adolescents not ready to engage in sexual intimacy will find lots of support.”

– Ann Barrett, Education Outreach Coordinator, Planned Parenthood Toronto (in the SIECCAN Newsletter)

“Finally, for young people and their parents – a book on sex. Simply written for today’s school children – about their body changes and how to learn about sex in the safe way.”

- Josephine Hookway, R.N., OB-GYN, N.P.

“Out of the ever-increasing titles competing for attention in this area – these merit a well-deserved consideration and enthusiastic recommendation based on general excellence; valuable additions to personal, community or academic library sex ed inventories.”

– Jim Cox, Midwest Book Review

“Addresses all the questions and misconceptions children have in plain language, interspersed with humor. Includes information about AIDS.”

- Planned Parenthood LINKLINE

“Clarity of thought and presentation, inherently interesting material, and a flair for the written word makes Sex Stuff for Kids 7-17 a MUST acquisition for parents, teachers, libraries, para-professionals, as well as the kids themselves.”

– Diane Donovan, Book Reviewer, San Francisco, CA

“A RICH RESOURCE – a must for parents! Clearly stated, sensible, and a effective combination of humor and seriousness. Kids can be sex smart.”

– L. Chennault, 1987 Teacher of the Year

“Carole Marsh of Gallopade International does it again! Building on the success of her award-winning Smart Sex Stuff Series for kids 7 -17, Marsh has written a “must-have” Q&A for parents and teachers alike. (This book) examines today’s hottest topics. Marsh approaches this awkward subject of sex with her trademark candor, intelligence and humor.”

- Billie M., parent

“I think [these books] would be great as there is a void in the market in the area from a parent’s perspective, due to the constraints of what is taught in public schools. That said, those teachers who do teach that content would like to have these books. Fifth grade does ‘THE’ video and discussion and I think these books would be a great addition to that instruction.”

– Debbie D., teacher

“I think parents should definitely buy these books. I have two friends who were recently in the market for puberty type books for their daughters – one fifth grade, one sixth grade. From my own experience helping these friends look for these type books, I know there is a serious need out there.”

– Tammy N., teacher

"Yes, yes yes! It's far better to start young than to be too late with sex ed with your kids. These books have everything you need to know and if you're embarrassed, just let your kids read them themselves!"

—Ginger T., parent

"I think grandparents would be smart to give these books to their grandchildren so they can be sure that they have this information. It gives you a bond with your grandkids, because you might be the one they come to with questions if they feel like they can't talk to their parents. Also, if their friends have questions, your grandkids will let them tag along for Q&A sessions. It's fun and you like being helpful and not out of the loop. I keep these books out and handy to send a message that it's ok to ask questions and we can find you answers. So, let's talk!"

—C. Longmeyer aka Mimi

"According to a recent news story, '1 out of every 4 teenage girls has a sexually transmitted disease'.  If that's not bad enough, '30% of those surveyed claimed to have never had sex'.  We must get this information—the facts—out there—in the hands of ANYONE who can educate our children!  It is true, people perish for a lack of knowledge."

- Sherry M., mother and grandmother

Every time I try to talk about sex with my middle school daughter, she blushes and says she has no questions. I know that isn't true. How wonderful to find your book! It has opened the door for her.

– Chantelle P., mother

“As the parent of a 5 year old and 7 year old, I know this conversation will happen before I am ready! I am delighted to have a resource that can prepare me for questions that may come when I least expect it!”

– Paige M., mother