1. Introduction
Sex Is a Funny Word by Cory Silverberg is a groundbreaking comic book for children aged 8 to 10. It reimagines sex education with a modern approach, addressing topics like bodies, gender identity, and sexuality. The book also emphasizes values such as respect, justice, and joy. Furthermore, Silverberg collaborated with artist Fiona Smyth to create an inclusive guide that encourages honest conversations between children and their caregivers.
The book stands out not just for its vibrant illustrations but also for its progressive approach, transcending the traditional “birds and bees” talk to address broader, more nuanced aspects of human sexuality. It is much more than a factual guide; it is a conversation starter.
Author’s Background:
Cory Silverberg, raised by a children’s librarian and a sex therapist, naturally merged these influences to become a sex educator and author. Silverberg holds a master’s degree in education and has developed workshops across North America, focusing on sexuality, disability, and inclusivity. His work is pivotal in creating a more open dialogue around sexual education. This book, in particular, is a follow-up to his Lambda-nominated *What Makes a Baby*, and has been lauded for its sensitive and inclusive take on a crucial topic.
Reader Engagement:
What does modern sex education mean to you? How can we introduce these topics to young minds while maintaining openness and respect? Share your thoughts in the comments!
2. Why Should You Read This?
“Sex Is a Funny Word” is worth reading because it breaks away from traditional narratives around sex education. In an era where discussions about gender and sexuality are becoming increasingly nuanced, this book caters to the changing needs of families. Silverberg addresses concepts like trust, boundaries, and justice, which go beyond the basic biological facts to introduce values integral to human relationships.
Contextual Relevance:
In today’s context, where society is becoming more aware of gender fluidity and the importance of inclusivity, this book offers a revolutionary approach to sex education. It’s not just a book for children; it’s a resource for caregivers to start meaningful conversations about sexuality, respect, and identity. Compared to other books in the same genre, Sex Is a Funny Word stands out because it doesn’t shy away from topics like justice or different body representations. This gives it a unique edge, addressing current issues in a way that’s both educational and relatable.
3. Key Teachings and Themes
At its core, Sex Is a Funny Word focuses on four main themes: respect, trust, joy, and justice. These values serve as the foundation for discussions about bodies, gender, and sexuality. Instead of offering rigid guidelines, the book encourages young readers to ask questions, explore their thoughts, and understand the diversity of human experiences.
Quotes and Passages:
One particularly impactful passage reads:
“Justice is like fairness, only bigger. Justice means that every person and every body matters.”
This quote resonates throughout the book, helping children understand the broader social and ethical implications of gender and body image beyond their own experiences.
Another key section discusses boundaries:
“Boundaries are like the lines on a map—they help us understand where we are and what we are comfortable with.”
These quotes emphasize how the book fosters respect and self-awareness, making it a powerful tool for teaching children the importance of understanding both themselves and others.
4. How This Book Can Help You
Parents and caregivers will find this book to be an invaluable tool for approaching tricky topics with children in a way that feels safe, supportive, and educational. It’s designed to empower children by making them feel included and respected while offering guidance on difficult questions. By reading this, parents can establish a foundation of trust and open communication with their kids, allowing for future conversations about bodies, identity, and consent to unfold naturally.
5. Writing Style and Structure
Silverberg’s writing style is accessible and engaging, particularly for young readers. The comic book format adds visual appeal and breaks down complex topics in a digestible, kid-friendly way. The illustrations by Fiona Smyth, with their bold colors and diverse representations of bodies, are vital to the narrative. Smyth’s artwork complements Silverberg’s text by making the content visually inclusive, portraying people of different shapes, sizes, and skin tones in a non-stereotypical way. The combination of simple language, relatable dialogue, and visual cues ensures that the book is both entertaining and educational.
6. Criticism of the Book
While Sex Is a Funny Word excels in many areas, it may not appeal to all parents or caregivers. Some might feel uncomfortable with how early the book introduces conversations about sexuality and identity, especially if they prefer to approach these topics at a later stage. Additionally, while the book champions inclusivity, it may leave some readers wanting more detail on how to address specific cultural or religious sensitivities in conversations about gender and sex.
7. Why Summary Is Not Enough
A simple summary of Sex Is a Funny Word does not do justice to the depth of its content. The value of the book lies in its ability to spark ongoing, evolving conversations between children and caregivers. While summaries offer a glimpse, reading the full text provides a richer, more interactive experience that allows parents and children to engage with the material meaningfully.
8. Thought-Provoking Debates
The book opens the door for conversations about gender identity, bodily autonomy, and social justice. It challenges the binary views on gender and encourages children to explore their own identities without judgment. This inclusive approach can lead to broader discussions on how society views gender and sexuality, promoting an atmosphere of acceptance and understanding. These debates are necessary for creating a more informed and empathetic generation.
9. Who Should Buy or Read This?
This book is an excellent gift for parents, educators, or caregivers who wish to foster open, inclusive discussions with their children about sex, gender, and bodies. It’s particularly relevant for families navigating conversations about non-traditional gender roles or sexual orientations. If you’re someone who values diversity and wants to introduce your child to a more expansive understanding of identity, this book is a great resource.
10. Reasons Not to Buy/Read
– You may have already covered similar content in your discussions or read other books addressing these themes.
– If you prefer a more traditional, factual approach to sex education, this book may not align with your expectations.
– Those with little interest in conversations about gender diversity may find the content unnecessary.
11. Conclusion
Sex Is a Funny Word is a groundbreaking, inclusive, and thoughtful approach to children’s sex education. Silverberg and Smyth succeed in creating a resource that empowers young readers and caregivers alike. By framing the discussion around values like respect, justice, and joy, the book offers more than just information—it provides a foundation for deeper understanding and empathy.
12. Final Recommendation
If you’re a parent, caregiver, or educator seeking to introduce important conversations about gender, identity, and sexuality to young children in a non-judgmental and engaging way, Sex Is a Funny Word is the book for you. Its combination of bold illustrations, accessible language, and progressive values make it an essential read for today’s families. Rating: 4.7/5.
A Thoughtful Perspective from sobersextext.com
If you’ve come across this review here awareandbeware.com from our partner site sobersextext.com, we truly appreciate your curiosity and engagement. On sobersextext.com(in a blog – The Truth About Sex: Overrated or Underrated?), we delve into important sex education topics that often get overlooked or are misunderstood in mainstream discussions. Sex Is a Funny Word by Cory Silverberg was recommended as an invaluable resource for demystifying sex, especially for younger audiences or those new to these conversations. The book helps break down why sex can be overhyped and introduces a fresh, more inclusive perspective on the topic. By providing accessible, non-judgmental information, it encourages readers to start honest, open conversations about sex in a way that is both informative and empowering, aligning perfectly with our mission to make sex education respectful, comprehensive, and approachable.