REQUESTS FOR RECONSIDERATION Of Library Material ‘The Rogers Public Library welcomes recommendations and suggestions regarding the Liorary’s collection However the choice of reading materials is a highly individual matter cind no single person may be allowed to ‘exercise Censorship or restrict access to Library materials by persons outside their household, The Library is not a judicial body and itis up to Federal, State, and local courts to determine what constitutes obscene or subversive material with regards to library materials. The Library does not knowingly collect materials deemed to be illegal and considers ail other materials to be protected by the United Slates Constitution and the Arkansas State Constitution. Only parents or guardians have the right to guide. airect, or restrict the reading, listening, ‘and viewing choices of thelr own minor children. 1. APalron may make a formal challenge fo an item being in the Library's collection by filing out the Request for Reconsideration form and giving i! fo the Library Director, Children’s Librarian, Teen Librarian or Reference iprarian on duty. The Form must be completed in ful, signed, and have contact information for the Patron making the request. 2. The Patron making the request must have a current valid Rogers Library Card. 3. The Materials under consideration will remain in the Library's collection pending the outcome of the Patrons request and the Director shall notify the Board of Trustees of the impending challenge at the next regular meeting. 4.If the request for reconsideration meets the requirements as outlined in paragraphs | and 2 of this procedure ‘as determined by the Library Direcior, on ad hoc challenge committee made up of at least four members of the Library staff, including the Library Director, tne Librarian with collection development responsibilty for the Material in question and at least two other librarians with experience and/or training in collection development. 5. Each member of the Challenge Committee will have one month to review the material, complete the Challenge form and retumn the Material fo the Library Director with a (majority decision) to either 1} Remove the Material from the collection; 2) Relocate or reclassify the Material; or 3) Leave the Material as currentty designated, 6. Anitem may only be evaluated for reconsideration once in a twelve-month period. A single patron may not challenge more than three items in a twelve-month period. 7.the Library Director wil inform the patron in writing at the address of the patron contained on the Rogers Public Library Card within 5 business days after the decision has been made and the Library Board of Trustees/Commissioners at the following regular Board meeting, 8. The Challenge Committee's decision may be appealed by the patron making a request in writing to the Director within 30 days of the decision by the Commitiee. The Director shall then submit copies of the challenge along with a copy of the recommendations of the Challenge Committee {to be included in the Board Packet for the following regular Board meeting so that the Library Board may consider the appeal at the following regular Board meeting.) The Librarian with Collection Development responsibilty will make a presentation to the Library Board supporting the Library's decision. The Patron will be invited to present his/her position. Other Rogers library card holders may be cllowed to speak: however, the Board of Trustees/Commissioners has the right to limit the number of speakers and the length of their presentations. 9. Afinal decision of the challenge will be voted on by the Board of Trustees/Commissioners at the regularly scheduled meeting folowing the meeting in which the presentations are made by the patron and the Collection Development Librarian, There shail be no further presentation by any person unless requested by the Board of Trustees/Commissioners. Approved by the Rogers Public Library Board of Trustees/Commissioners 6/19/2007 Revision approved 1/1/2016Stebh eerie “ PATRONS REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION OF A WORK IMPORTANT NOTICE: This request form becomes public information immediately upon submission and in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act is open to full public disclosure. Author, composer, producer, artist, etc Sil Tima Sono Pubiisher [if known) Request initiated by Library Cord # Address, Telephone. Complainant represents: Seif ‘Organization___ Name of organization __ —____ Other Group ____ Identify other group 1. Towhat in the work eaey object? Please be specific, cite exact parls (continue on back if i “ws 2. ue is there in this work? : 7 bet a t onoeetr vlad» bath fen sleet woesty'pa ane. pois b he fe d dito igeues EY on bahia 40 Fk Cintldin colt emp heal 0? 3. Jaciing, viewing, or listening 16 this work d fi 4. Forwhal age group would you recommend this work? HE fit ou eeeae teeta 5. Did you read, view, or listen to the entire work? Yes. No__ If no, what pages or sections? a : Are you aware of the judgment of this work by critics? Yes X'No__ , What de you believe is the theme or purpose of this work? : Sen dcthion boa tee an mobil iducaten & dunt 8. What would you prefer the library do about this work? Q ~—_Donotlendit to my chitd bap ik vm S Withdraw it from the library Q__ Sendit back to the proper department for re-evaluation. 9. Inits place, what work of equal value would you recommend that would convey as valuable a picture and perspective of a society or set of values? xe £2322 Date Signature of the < compieineant Staff yeurener Nelaya Anderson2. nd porwible diMetenctod. T+ is sf gorhi He juagrodatiion b nlacouree ane not tl ack Lome “a Cae Fate strug © dns Hb okey to 209 > bo ao fun furchie Coen duwt nwo):PATRONS REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION OF A WORK IMPORTANT NOTICE: This request form becomes public information immediately upon submission and in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act is open to full public disclosure. Author, composer, ria antist, etc Co D4 St Silvey hey y eit a =a Publisher (if known} Requestisiietedtoy_ a Library Card # Address. Telephone Compicinant represents: Self Organization____ Name of organization Other Group Identify other group 1. To what in the work do you object? Please be specific, cite exact paris (continue on back if necessary}: Ste @H-thol 2. What of value is there ip this work? 3. whet do vou fog tga mioty be be the result of reading, viewing, of listening to this work? eu att 4, Forwhat age group would you recommend this work? _S€° & tac he J 5. Did you read, view, or listen to the entire work? Yes” No__ If no, what pages or sections? 6 ‘Are you aware of the judgment of this work by ctitics? Yes” No__ 7. What do you believe is the theme or purpose of this work? Soe attack ed ae 8. What would you prefer the library do about this work? 0 Donotlendit to my child a Withdraw it from the library X Sone tback'o the proper department for re-evaluation. IRits place, what work of equal value would you recommend that would convey as valuable a picture and pospertive of a society or set of values? a“ $-27-22 Signature ee Date41. The book does have frank discussion of sex geared toward children that teaches viewpoints about the nature of gender that many people are going to disagree with. That in and of itself however, isn’t enough to say It’s ‘objectionable’ in that a public library, even in the c works from @ variety of viewpoints, political, religious, and otherwise. | do agree that the book's vagueness seems confusing on issues ‘and may introduce some concepts earlier than many parents want their kids introduced to such topics. ‘Typically books on this subject are geared toward older audiences or deal with the subject in a more clinical way. | don't know what ‘the line’ isin being explicit in sexual content is for 7-12 year olds but @ few places seem to run up against It at least: Talking about how it can feel good to have your anus touched was not. something | usually expect from 2 book geared toward this age group (p 66). The section on masturbation Is similar (p 109-111), 2. As an education of gender from a particular set of assumptions about the sexual nature of humans, | don't ‘know thet it fully succeeds, but It does emahasize children not to let people touch them in ways they are not comfortable with. That part was obviously trying to be delicate, though I'm not sure | totally agree with the patron complaint that it portrays things as unwanted and kisses hugs as the equivalent of sexual abuse, albelt | do agree it is vague. 3, Children would probably have questions for their parents to explain certain ideas presented in the book, ike ‘the belief that a doctor can get a gender wrong when assigning at birth, leading to unneeded confusion. | could also See some using it asa stepping stone to working through difficult questions. At least one review | ‘saw spoke about working through thelr son’s experience with abuse by a family member. However if children don’t read it with an adult, | believe they could, again, suffer confusion, Pages 84-85 for instance, could be read to imply that a boy who likes ballet or a giri who likes football might be the wrong gender. 41 personally would recommend it mostly if someone asked for a young person's book on this topic from a ‘gender progressive’ perspective. 7.1ts purpose seems to be to frame sex and gender from Its viewpoint In 2 way children can understand, 9, There are some books that present gender from different perspectives (for instance, an explicitly traditional point of view with regards to gender), or from a more Informative, scientific standpoint. There are examples in ‘the print collection and in the online collection. We could always laok for others too if there is a need for balance and representation of points of view in the collection, Some inal thoughts: The book frames sexuality toward 7-12 year olds in a viewpoint that clashes with the values ofa large part of our community, but also is in ine with how many also believe. If we are going to start removing titles based on this 'm rot sure we could be consistent with the rest of the collection. | believe the library needs to err on the side of having a broad selection and not play toward one side. The book has received some awards and positive reviews, which is a comman criteria for selecting a book for a public collection. The questions for me are: 1, Does this book's content reach a level of being too exalicit for the children’s collection? 2. Is there information in the book that can be said to be factually inaccurate? 3, [s the book a valuable part of completing a need in the collection? To. lam not sure, In places like the above the content definitely exceeded whet professionally | would have thought appropriate for that particular age group but | also know that if we start pulling at this thread we may find ‘other books, including ones Iked or appreciated from many parties, which also don’t meet muster. For 2. feel the ‘concepts expressed mostly fall into the realm of staternents of belief. For 3. | am again unsure. How does it compare to other books in the library? It seems we have other books on this subject but isthe presentation of its perspective key to the library having a collection that covers its needs and represents parents in our community who wish for sexual education books that reflect the viewpoint of this book? Do we need other perspectives in addition to it?If have to give a “Keep” or “Remove” vote | would with a great deal of caution say remove while keeping the electronic copies, However, | would rather say “return for re-evaluation” and accept the judgement of the children’s department to see fit fits within their particular collection policy.PATRONS REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION OF A WORK IMPORTANT NOTICE: This request form becomes public information immediately upon submission and in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act is open to full publie disclosure. Author, composer, producer, artiste iluerberg and an Publisher (if known) Severn Stpcted Chee conte Krista. ——erbrdif'Eeed#_Children's Library Dy sche Address 5 Fag. Telephone a 6a. “52> Commibtes mela” “Gomplasca presents: Self. Organization_»¢__ Name of organization, Booprs Public Libary Other Group Identify other group 1. To what in the work do you object? Please be specific, cite exact parts (continue on back if necessary): x tached for tegporses fo patrons 2. What of value is there in this work? ‘What do you feel might be the result of reading, viewing, or listening to this work? 4, For what age group would you recommend this work?_@~\2 5. Did you read, view, or listen to the entire work? Yes_X No___ If no, what pages or sections? 6. Are you aware of the judgment of this work by erities? Yes X_No__ 7. What do you believe is the theme or purpose of this work? 8. What would you prefer the library do about this work? Keep +e \acok on the, Shelf ia 8 Current a Do not lend it to my child \ocatien. Withdraw it from the library a ‘Send it back to the proper department for re-evaluation. 9. Inits place, what work of equal value would you recommend that would convey as valuable a picture and Perret 9 ofa society or set of values? Signature bat. papel2siznxe— Committee HamerKristin Jones, Children’s Library Director Patron Request for Reconsideration of a Work - Rogers Public Library Committee Review “Sex is a Funny Word” by Cory Silverberg, illustrated by Fiona Smyth, published by Seven Stories Press ‘To what in the work do you object? (Addressing patron's concerns and objections} ‘+ Patron objection: The book promotes gender dysphoria ‘© My response: The book promotes discussions about gender between children and adults. The specific example given by the patron regarding the page that asks children to draw a picture of thelr outside body and another picture of “what the stories inside you feel like" is not directly about gender at all. This section of the book is entitled “All Bodies Have Stories,” and is discussing the difference between who people think we are by looking at us and who we are inside. This may include gender, but it also may not. The book states: “Bodies are kind of like books. Each of us has an outside, like the cover of a book, which other people can see. And each of us has an inside, like the inside of a book, filled with stories that only you can see and feel. Growing up can mean learning about your outside, what your body can and can’t do. Growing up can also mean learning about your inside: the stories, memories, experiences, and feelings that make you who you are.” (pp. 37-38) ‘The book then goes on to presenting the activity of drawing a picture of what your outside body looks like and a picture of how you feel inside, and suggests comparing the two to see what Is the seme and what is different. This activity is meant to promote an exploration of who you are as a whole, and that exploration may or may not include gender, depending on how the child responds. ‘© Another example the patron uses includes pages 70-87. This section does discuss gender, but it does so in a way that is age appropriate and encourages thought and conversation between a child and their grown up. Another quote from the book: “As we grow into being a kid and then an adult, we get to figure out who we are and what words fit best, Most boys grow up to be men, and most girls grow up to be women. But there are many ways to be a boy or a girl. And there are many ways to grow up and become an adult. For most of us, words like boy and girl, or man and woman, feel ‘okay, and they fit. For some of us, they don’t.” (og. 83) {As the book states, the words boy and girl, man and woman fit the majority of people. However, there are people in the Rogers community who do not feel like these words fit. This book is inclusive of those members of our community and opens doors to discussions for children and their grown ups about gender and those members of our community, whether or not the child themselves fits into those words or not. The book does not push children to say that they do not fit within the definitions of boy or girl, but it allows space for those who don't to say so, and it lets children who do fit within those words learn that not everyone does.‘Patron objection: The book promotes child sexuality, particularly masturbation. ‘© My response: This is a sexual education book. In the section “To the Grown Up Reader” the author states: "Sex education is about more than science and the so-called facts of life. | believe the most important part of sex education is exploring and sharing our feelings, values, and beliefs, and helping kids connect what they learn to their communities, histories, families, and cultures. That's ‘what this book allows you to do. We've provided the framework and basic information about bodies, gender, and touch, and we've left blanks that only you and the kids in your life can fill in.” (Flyleaf ti front cover, page not numbered) ‘The book does provide information about bodies, gender, and touch in an age appropriate way for children whose bodies are growing and changing, or for children who will soon have bodies that are changing. Some children have not begun puberty by the 7 to 10 age range that the publisher states this book is for, however there are many children who are already well into the start of puberty by this time. Its the decision of the parent or grown up in the child's life as to when to have these kinds of conversations, and some families may not be ready to have these discussions at that point. Those families may not need this book at that time. For the families who do want to have these kinds of conversations With their children at that time, this book serves as a gateway and connection to facilitate those conversations. Some families may not want a book that is inclusive of all abilities and all gender expression, or they may not want a book that discusses masturbation. This book is not for them, However, for the families who do want a book that is inclusive of all abilities and all gender exoression, this book is an excellent tool. The book neither encourages nor discourages children to masturbate, but it does present what masturbation is and distinguishes it from other kinds of self touch. The book proceeds to state that “every family and community has its own ideas about masturbation” (pg, 108) and asks “Do you know if there are rules in your femily about touching yourself? if there are rules, do they make sense to you?” (pg. 109). These questions allow the child and their grown up to have a discussion about what is appropriate or expected in their own family, and a chance to discuss why those rules are in place (if they are). Not every family wants to have this discussion, but if not, then this book may not be for them, (© The patron also states, “To any average person, this book would seem to have a prurient interest in the sexuality of children.” This book is a sex education book for children. It discusses the sexuality of children because itis intended to ‘educate children about the way their bodies are changing (or will soon change), ‘and the feelings, thoughts, emotions, and experiences they may be having or may soon have in regards to sex and sexuality. All of this is done in an age appropriate way.‘+ Patron objection: The book Is a tool preparing children for sexual abuse by “trusted” adults © Myrresponse: The section on “Secret Touching” that the patron references is specifically designed to combat sexual abuse of children. The choice of the author to reference a “trusted adult” rather than a “parent” Is deliberate in order to be inclusive of children who do not have parents and of children who have parents but are unable to talk to their parents about these matters. While most children do have parents, there are plenty of children in the world and in the Rogers community who do not. These children are included in this book by the author’s choice to use “trusted adult.” Of the children who have parents, the majority of these children probably can safely talk to their parents about these topics. However, there are unfortunately situations that make some children unable to do so. These children are also included in this book due to the author's choice of the phrase “trusted adult.” This is the same reason | have chosen to refer to children’s “grown up” in my responses rather than referring to children’s “parents.” (©The patron mentions that on page 100, the book makes the confusing statement that “There are times when someone might have to touch you even if you don't want them to. Those are helping touches, but they might feel like they hurt.” The page also goes on to encourage children to let people know if the touch feels ike a hurting touch, and itis accompanied by pictures providing examples of helping touches that may feel like hurting touches. The pictures include a grown up grabbing 2 child's arm to stop them from stepping into the road in the path of an oncoming bus or truck, two pictures of medical personnel (giving a child a shot and examining a hurt knee}, and an older person reaching for a baby throwing a tantrum, These images are included with the text to provide clarification to the text and to once again open a discussion between @ child and their grown up about what helping touches that feel like hurting touches are. Once the chapter reaches the discussion of “secret touching,” it specifically tells children that no one should ever be asking them to keep any kind of touching a secret, and that if someone touches them secretly or asks the child to touch them secretly, then the child needs to tell a trusted adult. This section is one of the longer sections in the book, and it discusses sexual abuse in way that a child can understand while not being too scary or overwhelming for the child reading the book (© The patron also mentions that the book is framed as a story of a male teacher encouraging students to explore their sexuality. That teacher is the author of the book, and it is framed 2s a discussion in a class about sexual education ‘+ Patron objection: This book is poorly written twaddle, talking down to children like a sexualized Dick and Jane, © My response: In my professional opinion, as someone holding both a Bachelor's degree in English Literature and a Master’s degree in Library Science, as well as the many other professional opinions expressed in professional reviews of thebook and the selectors of award recipients such as the prestigious Stonewall ‘Award, this book is well written and discusses difficult topics in a way that is age appropriate and easy for children within its target audience to understand. It does not provide all the answers to questions posed because it is meant to be 2 tool to facilitate discussion between children and their grown ups. It lays out basic information and then lets the grown up take over to share their own thoughts, values, and beliefs with their child # Patron objection: The author of this book is not someone we should trust discussing these issues with children, © My response: This author is sex educator for children. His job is to discuss these issues with children. He is an expert in the field and is highly qualified to be writing this book on this topic. 2. What of value is there in this work? There is great value in this work. This is an excellent book on sex education for children who are nearing or entering puberty. One of the things that makes this book exceptional is that its inclusive of so many different kinds of children: children without parents, children with disabilities, children who do not consider themselves to be girls or boys, just to name a few. The book is written in accessible language and explains things in ways that young children can understand. The book is intended to be, and successfully can be, an excellent discussion starter between children and their grown ups. It presents Information but does not make judgements about that information (except for the section on secret touching, which states that no one should ever ask another person to keep touching secret). This allows families to have discussions in which the grown ups can impart their own judgements, ideas, and beliefs to their children about the content of the book. Another aspect of this book that provides exceptional value is that it does not address sex and sexuality as things completely separate and isolated from a person’s beliefs, experiences, feelings, body, and even community. This book provides a whole person approach to sexuality, sex, and puberty. There are ‘many sections of this book that are focused on getting to know yourself in a complete way, not just as it relates directly to sex or sexuality. Despite the title, the book never ventures into a discussion of sexual intercourse, but only sets the foundations for a discussion of that in the future. This book is held by many of the public libraries in Northwest Arkansas, including Bentonville Public Library, Fayetteville Public Library, and Springdale Public Library. This further demonstrates the value and relevance to the Northwest Arkansas community at large. The book is also available on Hoopla, which is a digital service available to our patrons with their library cards. Professionals at Hoopla curate the collection that is available through their service, rather than individual libraries curating that collection. The fact that Hoopla has also determined that this book has value for our community and readers all over the country also reflects the importance and popularity of this book, The book has also circulated 7 times to date through 2022, which is a high number of checkouts for juvenile nonfiction, again reinforcing the value of the book to our patrans and our community.This book has been widely positively reviewed in many professional magazines, articles, and blogs. tt has also won several awards, including the following: 2016 Stonewall Honor for Books in Children’s and Young Adult Literature Winner of the Norma Fleck Award for Canadian Children’s Non-Fiction ALA Notable Children's Book American Library Association Reading List 2016 Best Book of the Year Selection, Quill & Quire 3. What do you feel might be the result of reading, viewing, or listening to this work? | believe that first and foremost, the result of reading, viewing, or listening to this work will be sex education. For families who are ready to have these discussions, another result will be to facilitate those discussions between children and their grown ups. For children who may read this book on their ‘own, | believe the result will be sex education and the potential for those children to start conversations with thelr grown ups about the topics discussed in the book, | believe that for the wide range of children who are included in this book and who are not often included in books like these, there will be an added result of feeling seen and validated. | believe this is a necessary book for those children, | do feel that for families who do not wish to discuss these topics with their children at this age, the result of reading, viewing, or listening to this book may be negative. In Conclusion: Whether or not this book is necessary or appropriate for each child is a decision that Is left up to each patron and each family. The Rogers Public Library works hard to ensure that we have materials for all of our patrons, The Rogers community is made up of people from all walks of life, with varying beliefs, values, experiences, and feelings. This particular book, as with any book in the library, meets the needs and interests of members of our community. It will not meet the needs and interests of every member of our community. No one book can do so. However, there are other books that will meet the needs and interests of different members of our community. | would like to re-emphasize the statement that is included in our Request for Reconsideration Policy: “However the choice of reading materials is @ highly individual matter and no single person may be allowed to exercise censorship or restrict access to Library materials by persons outside their household. The Library is not a judicial body and it is up to Federal, State, and local courts to determine what constitutes obscene or subversive material with regards to library materials. ‘The Library does not knowingly collect materials deemed to be illegal and considers all other ‘materials to be protected by the United States Constitution and the Arkansas State Constitution. Only parents or guardians have the right to guide, direct, or restrict the reading, listening, and viewing choices of their own minor children.”This book is clearly not one that the patrons submitting this Request for Reconsideration would like their children to read, and they have every right to make that decision for their family. However, this book is of great value to other patrons of the Rogers Public Library, and those patrons also have the right to access information that meets their needs and their children’s needs. | recommend that "Sex is a Funny Word” by Cory Silverberg, illustrated by Fiona Smyth, be retained in the Rogers Public Library in its ren’s Juvenile Nonfiction section so that it may be accessed by the patrons current location in the Chil who need it.Reviews and Awards for “Sex is a Funny Word” by Cory Silverberg, illustrated by Fiona Smyth PW Reviews 2015 June #4 Silverberg and Smyth follow What Makes a Baby with a highly visual introduction to sex education for older readers, featuring four characters between the ages of eight and 10 with skin in a rainbow of crayon-box colors. Ful-page arlwork and comics sequences follow the students as they react to discussions of gender. bodies [including what Silverberg calls "middle parts”), touching, and the emotions that lead to sexual contact; the book stops short of getting into the mechanics of intercourse. Throughout, Sliverberg invites readers to consider their own feelings through activities and questions (“Why do you think people want to know if a baby is a boy or a girt?"). Emphasizing the importance of trust, respect, justice, and joy—as well as open communication—it's a thoughtful and affirming expioration of relationships, gender identity, and growing sexual awareness. Ages 7-10. (July) Copyright 2015 PWxyz LLC SLJ Reviews 2016 March Gr 2-6—Silverberg and Smyth follow up their book for younger readers, What Makes a Baby (Triangle Square, 2013), with this engaging introduction to gender, bodies, and relationships. A diverse cast of cartoon kids—in terms of appearance, ability, and paint of view—explore the multipie meanings of the word sex with their teacher, friends, and family members. There is a heavy emphasis on the importance of thinking for oneself and developing one’s own opinions. The language is conversational and accessible, os well as direct, fastidiously accurate, and entirely gender-neutral. Each section ends with conversation-provoking questions, reinforcing the suggestion that the book be read and shared in conversation with a trusted adult. What makes this volume exceptional is iis introduction of the subjects of transgender identity, intersex conciions, and masturbation. The quality text is enhanced and brought to life by comics drawn with bold lines on bright, ful-bleed pages. Smyth's illustrations are interactive, fun, and edifying, presenting a range of body types and diversity. Despite the fille, the topic of sexual intercourse is not covered; but Silverberg prepares readers for this information by introducing concepts such as respect, trust, and joy. VERDICT Exciting, enlightening, aind innovative, this book acidresses fimeless questions about sex for a new generation of kids who are increasingly aware of the broad spectrum of gender and sexual identities —Clara Hendricks, Cambridge Public Library, MA [Page 171). (c) Copyright 2016 Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted. Kirkus Reviews 2015 April #2 Moving up in target audience from their explanation of reproduction, What Makes a Baby (2013), Silverberg and Smyth explore various meanings for the word "sex." In their own ways, Zai, Cooper, Mimi, and Omar respond to information in chapters about bodies, "Boys, Girls, All of Us," touch, language, and "Crushes, Love, and Relationships.” With skin tones in unlikely shades (blue! purple! green!) and wildly diverse crowd scenes, chances are good that any reader can iclentify with someone in these pagesReviews and Awards for "Sex is a Funny Word” by Cory Silverberg, illustrated by Fiona Smyth Refreshingly, these crowds are diverse in a way that does not appear assembled by checkist. Lively design, bright, clashing colors, cartoon-style illustrations, comic strips, and plenty of humor support the informal, inclusive approach. Each chapter ends with questions to think and talk about. The author's respect for different approaches to the subject comes through. No actual sexual activities are described except for masturbation, in the chapter that also deals with "secre? touches." The gender chapter tells how genders assigned but notes "there are more than two kinds of bodies.” The character Zai doesn't identify as either boy or girl. lustrations show body parts of kids and grown-ups (nipples, breasts, bottoms, and parts biologically specific to boys or gitls) demonstrating wide variety. Puberty will be addressed in a third fitle. This carefully thought-out explanation may surprise but should be widely appreciated. (glossary) (Nonfiction.7-10} Copyright Kirkus 2015 Kirkus/BPI Communications. All rights reserved. School Library Connection Reviews 2018 May This is a book about a difficult and confusing topic. Set up like a comic strip, the drawings are appropriate by not being oo realistic but stil geting the point across. The book finds a way to approach difficult topics for children and answers a lot of questions growing children may have in a way that is easily understandable. This book may not be something that would be found in a classroom, but would be important for a schoo! library to carry. It can help show children how their bodies will change and grow, and how they may begin to have different feelings than they did in the past. ~ Grades 6-8 - Jessica Wison - Recommended Sex is a Funny Word: A Book about Bodies, Feelings, and YOU by C. Silverberg & F. smyth Authors Kyle Marshall DOI: hitps://dol.org/10.20361/G2X603 Abstract Silverberg, Cory and Fiona Smyth. Sex is a Funny Word: A Book about Bodies, Feelings, and YOU. New York: Seven Stories Press, 2015. Print. “Having @ penis isn't what makes you a boy. Having a vulva isn't what makes you a girl. The truth is much more interesting than that!" In a watershed year for transgender activism, Cory Silverberg and Fiona Smyth have broken ground with their trans-inclusive sex education book Sex is @ Funny Word. This new release follows a cast of four 8-10 year old kids, including gender queer Zai, as they leam about and explore that strange and funny word - sex. Throughout the book, Smyth's illustrations employ bright, opaque and high-contrast colours to great effect,Reviews and Awards for "Sex is a Funny Word” by Cory Silverberg, illustrated by Fiona Smyth and readers are exposed to characters of wonderfully diverse abilities, races, shapes and sexualities. It is however reductive to merely draw attention to the diversity in Sex is a Funny Word, as a wide gamut of topics are discussed with age-appropriate aplomb, including anatomy, “touch” and relationships. Silverberg's opening notes to adult readers provide tips for co-reading the book with children, explaining that the text is meant to be read over many sittings to aid comprehension and reflection. By bookending each chapter with interactive questions, readers identify and reflect on personal morals anchored in four concepts - trust, respect, joy and justice. These quéstions do the hard work for parents, who can defer fo one of the lively and inquisitive characters for discussion points. Moreover, the only sexual activity mentioned in this book is masturbation, so even the most squeamish adult readers should feel comfortable co- reading Sex is a Funny Word, Sex is a Funny Word is the second of a three-part, age-specific sex education series written by Silverberg and illustrated by Smyth, Those with younger children can find reproduction discussed in What Makes a Baby, while intercourse will specifically be covered in the series’ next title. For a positive, fun and healthy introduction to these concepts, parents and librarians will be well-served by seeking out Sex is a Funny Word, for their collection. Highly Recommended: 4 out of 4 stars Reviewer: Kyle Marshall Kyle Marshall is the School-Aged Services Intem Librarian for Edmonton Public Library. He graduated with his MLIS from the University of Alberta in June 2015, and is passionate about diversity in children’s and youth literature. Author Biography Kyle Marshall Infem Librarian Marshall, K, {2016}. Sexis o Funny Word: A Book about Bodies, Feelings, and YOU by C & F. Smyth. The Deakin Review of Children’s Literature, 5(3). 10.20361/G2X: About the Journal The Deakin Review of Children’s Literature is an electronic quarterly review of contemporary Englishtanguage materials of interest to children and young adults. OF particular use to librarians, parents, teachers and anyone working with young people, we also publish news and opinions relevant to children’s literacy.Reviews and Awards for “Sex is a Funny Word’ by Cory Silverberg, illustrated by Fiona Smyth Recognition and Awards for “Sex is a Funny Word": 2016 Stonewall Honor for Books in Children's and Young Adult Literature Winner of the Norma Fleck Award for Canadian Children's Non-Fiction ALA Notable Children's Book American Library Association Reading List 2016 Best Book of the Year Selection, Quill & Quire Author Biography from their website: Roised in the 1970s by a children's librarian and a sex therapist, Cory grew up to be a sex educator, and author, and a queer person who smiles a lot when they talk. They spend a lot of their time reading, writing, and talking about sex and gender and are happiest working with others. Cory was a founding member of the Come As You Are Co-operative and worked as a researcher and television consultant in Canada for over 10 years. Cory is a core tearm memiber of ANTE UP!, a virtual professional freedom school founded by Bianca | Laureano. They also spend a lot of time helping other people make books. Cory is the co-author of four books including The Ultimate Guide to Sex and Disability (with Fran Odette and Miriam Kaufman), What Makes a Baby, Sex Is a Funny Word, and the forthcoming You Know, Sex, all with Fiona Smyth. They received a master’s degree in education from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto. Since 1997 Cory has developed and facilitated workshops for hundreds of agencies and organizations serving both youth and adults across North America on a range of topics including gender expression and identity, sexuality and disabitity, sexual pleasure, sexual communication, technology, and ‘access + inclusion. They have delivered keynotes, and led small book groups, and regularly speak with parents, educators, and librarians about how fo think and talk about sex, gender, and disability in more expansive ways. White, Jewish, and queer, Cory tries to center justice in their life and work. They have learned (and continue to leam} to do this by centering collaboration, humility, curiosity, ‘and accountability, working across and within the spaces that divide race, gender. ‘embodiment, disability, and identity. Cory’s life is full of kids. All of them know where babies come from. Some know more. https://www.corysilverberg.com/bio‘SEX/S A FUNNY WORD: A book about bodies, feelings, and you 8y Cory Silverberg and Fiona Smyth Response from: Lesley Knieriem Reader Conversations Librarian Rogers Public Library 1. To what in the work do you object? The illustration style isn’t to my taste, 2, What value is there in the work? Except for the somewhat silly illustrations, | found the book a delight from the first page to the last. 1 wish that it had been available when my children were the target age. | wish that it had been avallable when *I* was the target age. This book is particularly valuable for three unique characteristics: a) This is one of the only books about “sex education” that | have ever encountered that stralght up acknowledges that the word “sex” has many different meanings dependent on context: “1, Sex is a word used to describe our bodies (like male, female, and the rest of us) 2, Sexis something peopled can do to feel good in their bodies, and also to feel close to another person (grown-ups call this ‘having sex’) 3. Sex is one way grown-ups make babies (also called reproduction)” ‘The book refers readers to other texts for the third meaning, It instead takes the rare approach of ‘exploring the other two, clearly differentiating them, and acknowledging that neither is straightforward ‘or simple (as confirmed by science, experience, and the teaching of many religions and cultures), b) This is 2 book that is extraordinarily non-didactic. Instead of dogmatically laying out a “correct” answer for the many many complicated issues it poses, It acknowledges that there are many possible answers, and that it depends on the individual and their culture (for example, social values, parental teaching). Again and again it turns these questions back to the reader: “How do you feel? What do you think?” and constantly encourages the reader to talk them over with a trusted adult, ©) This is 2 book that takes the unprecedented step of helping children to understand that sex and sexuality shauld always be placed in the context of values, specifically “Trust. Respect. Joy. Justice.” | have never before encountered any book on the topic — including books for adults! ~ which uses such a healthy and ethically sound framing, with concrete examples. 3, What do you feel might be the result of reading, viewing, or listening to this work? ‘On the positive side, the result may be more trusting, respectful, and just young people and adults, who have a greater understanding of their own bodies and feelings, and are comfortable communicating with both those who they love, and those who wish to take advantage of them. In a society that isbomberded with hyper gender-conforming messages in advertising, popular entertainment, and politics, when sexual predation of children by family members and religious leaders is on the news every night, when suicide Is the major cause of death for young people who identify as trans, a message of acceptance, hope, encouragement, and self-love is literally life-saving. On the negative side, the authors themselves acknowledge (p. 122): “Some people say sexis a bad word. Some grown-ups say you should never talk about sex, especially when you are young. Not everyone feels safe or able to talk about sex. Talking about sex makes some people uncomfortable or angry. It can feel strange to talk about sex if it isn’t something you are used to talking about, but strange doesn’t mean it’s bad or good. We can ask questions and talk about sex in ways that help and in ways that hurt.” Sometimes people might feel so “uncomfortable or angry” that they profoundly misread this book, and distort its contents. While the book explicitly and repeatedly encourages children to understand and feel at home in their bodies, these people might falsely accuse the book of doing the opposite, especially people who are uninformed or confused about the meaningful and scientifically necessary distinction between “physical sex” and “gender”, or unaware that science has shown that puberty can begin as young as age seven and gender awareness as young as three, Some people might even be angry and uncomfortable enough to make false and slanderous accusations about the authors. Fortunately, the authors are careful to remain open and respectful to all points of view (p. 124-5): “A person who thinks talking about sex is bad isn’t a bad person... There is room in the world for people who are happy to talk about sex and for people who never want to talk about it.” Similarly, a person who is made angry or uncomfortable by this book is perfectly justified in not reading it 4, For what age group would you recommend this work: Ages 7— 12. 5, Did you read the entire work? Yes 6. Are you aware of the judgment of this work by critics? Yes. 7. The purpose of the work is very clearly stated on the very first page, “To the grown-up reader”: “The most important part of sex education and exploring and sharing our feelings, values, and beliefs, and helping kids connect what they learn to their communities, histories, families, and cultures.” book that does not fallow from this, There is not a single page or word or illustration in this ent statement, 8. What would you prefer the library do about this work? Retain in the collection. 9, In its place what work would you recommend? For the reasons state above, | cannot think of any work that has thi ‘one’s unique and priceless virtues,Review of “PATRONS REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION OF A WORK IMPORTANT NOTICE: This request form becomes public information immediately upon submission and in eccordancs with the Freedom of Information Act is open to full public disclosure. Author, composer, producer, artist, sic. " 1 Fon cgublsher {if knqwo Hien Nei lye Ubrary Cad #__ Address. Telephone. Stoft Gompltinentrepresents: Self Organtzation_s/_ Nome of organization Rojee Public Libr Other Group. Identify other group —_ 1. To what in the work do you object? Please be specific, cite exact paris (continue on back if necessary): @ . - 3. What do you feel might be the result of reading, viewing, or listening to this work? 4. For what age group would you recommend this work S= 1s 5, Did you read, view, of listen to the entire work? Yes_Y¥ No__ IFno, what pages or sections? 4. Are you aware of the judgment of this work by critics? Yes 7. 7.» What do you believe is the theme or purpose of this work? 8. What would you prefer the library do about this work? Q —_Donotlendit to my child ret Ca the Chitdeents collector Q Withdraw it from the library Q _ Sendit back to the proper department for re-evaluation. 9. Inits place, what work of equal value would you recommend that would convey as valuable a picture and perspective of a society of set of values? Dhere Paaa_T Lye $fe2/aa Signature of the complaiaant Date Commitee Member2. Yalue of work Families in the Rogers community who seek a resource on sex education that is inclusive of all abilities and gender expression will find this book extremely valuable. This book emphasizes the importance of ‘communication between a child and trusted adult. Its sincere, inclusive, self-positive, encourages a healthy relationship with sexuality, and fosters body positivity through guided conversations. The book asserts that family beliefs and social values should always be considered when discussing the topics of sex and sexuality-that there are many possible answers to the topics posed depending on the reader's values. Further, the book does not force opinions on the readers. It allows pause for them to learn about themselves with reminders that others may not feel the same as they do. 3. Result of reading, viewing, or listening to the work For families that wish to discuss these sensitive topics with their children using 2 diverse and inclusive resource: The format of this book will promote dialog between children and their guardians on the topics of sex, sexuel identity, and appropriate touching. It will help children express their thoughts, ask questions, and provide them with a greater understanding of their own feelings.Stet recponse [review -PATRONS- REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION OF A WORK IMPORTANT NOTICE: This request form becomes public information immediately upon submission and in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act is open to full public disclosure. Author, composer, producer, arlist, etc. Sex 1s a db Cory Silerbey Publisher (if known) and Foy Request inifiated by Jay Ru nor # AssiStont Directr Sy Address 2 Telephone, Comploinant represents: Self___ Orgonization___ Name of organization Other Group ___ Identify other group 1. Towhat in the work do you object? Please be specific, cite exact paris (continue on back if necessary}: 2. What of value is there in this work? See atkached eee Sergeeesa spores 3. What do you feel might be the result of reading, viewing, or listening to this work? fee arbeched 0 4, For what age group would you recommend this work? $10 5. Did you read, view, or listen to the entire work? Yes” No__ IF no, what pages or sections® i 6 Are you aware of the judgment of this work by critics? Yes“ No__ 7. What do you believe is the theme or purpose of this work? i = Meane Jnildren ane & What would you prefer the library do about this Work? caregivers. Q ~—_Donotlendit to my child Q Withdraw it from the library @__ Sendit back to the proper department for re-evaluation. 9. Inits place, what work of equal value would you recommend that would convey as voluable a picture and perspective of a society or set of values? : i is $/23/2022 Signdturp of Ihe forelsnost Date: PreviewerSex is a Funny Word: A Book about Bodies, Feelings, and You by Cory Siverberg & Fiona Smyth 2. This title won the 2016 ALA Notable Children's Book Award and the 2016 Stonewall Honor Books in Children’s and Young Adult Literature. it also received a starred review from School Library Journal and positive reviews from Kirkus and Publishers Weekly, all highly regarded Librory Collection Development Joumals. This title emphasizes the importance of communication between a child and a trusted ‘adult. The “To The Grown-Up Reader” section at the beginning of the book states that the book should be “read over weeks, months, and years, rather than just a few sittings. You'll find that it sparks different conversations at different ages and stages.” This section also points out that this title provides basic information about our bodies, gender, and touch and leaves space for the child and adult to have a conversation about feelings, values, and beliefs. Every chapter ends with the opportunity for these conversations to take place. While | find these opportunities for sharing thoughts and feelings throughout the book to be very valuable, it s the "Secret Touching” section that I find to be the most valuable, In this title, secret touches are touches that another person makes you keep ai secret. It explains secret touches in a way that a child can understand and makes a point of explaining how important itis that they tell someone they trust if the secret touching has happened to them or someone they know. It also tells them that if the first person they jell doesn't know what to do they need to find someone one else. | especially like the questions at the end of this section. They encourage a conversation about who the child could go to if they or someone they knew was ever touched in a way that made them feel uncomfortable. 11 also gives the child an opportunity to tell the adult if they have ever been touched or if someone has asked them to touch them in @ way that made them feel uncomfortable, confused, or scared. @3. Reading this title with a trusted adult over time, as instructed by the author, allows for the child fo explore the book al their own pace. Additionally, each chapter ends with questions that encourage the child to explore their own thoughts and feelings about what they just read. Reading slowly with an adult and being given the opportunity to explore their thoughts on each topic is very valuable as a child matures. | feel this will also help children be more comfortable talking about sensitive situations and subjects with adults.