The girl guide by Marawa Ibrahim

Frances Lincoln Children's Books, 2017. ISBN 9781847809483
(Age: 10-15) Highly recommended. Star rating: 5/5. This is the book I wish my mum put on my bedside table instead of 'Where did I come from?'!!
Growing up is a tough gig, especially in a society where advertisement and media plays a huge role (unconsciously or not) in providing education to women around our bodies, growing up and the portrayal of what is normal. What Marawa Ibrahim has done with this book has taken ALL the things that happen to girls growing up and written down what really happens. From periods, hormones and bras to embarrassing moments, friendships and just being yourself, it is all in there.
One of the things I really enjoyed about this guide is that each of the 50 lessons are shown in a very light-hearted easy to read way, however you also get the sense that these experiences really were her own and that made me feel more comfortable in my own personal experience. I feel that this will transfer well to the younger female reader who reads this book either at the start of or throughout their journey with their changing body.
Marawa tells us about her inner most embarrassing moments, and then how she got over them. You get the pros and cons of the various types of hair removal and the benefit of stretching and meditation - there really is something for everyone.
The blurb states that The girl guide is "packed with practical advice, this book is a stylish agony Aunt for any 10 year old girl" and I feel that this is 100% true. It answers all the questions you want to ask your mum or friends but are too shy or embarrassed to, and does so in a way that any 10-15 year old girl would completely understand.
Lauren Fountain