Starred review from December 1, 2019
A comic-book handbook for young audiences about physical and emotional boundaries. This small-but-mighty resource cleverly mimics popular early-reader series like Elephant & Piggie or Narwhal and Jelly, with heavy-duty binding and a jaunty cartoon feel. But instead of zany friendships, this text carefully takes children through consent, relationship dynamics, and what to do if you experience, cause, or witness harm. The unnamed characters are clothed stick figures with a variety of hairstyles and skin tones of different shades of gray. Early chapters include "You Rule," about individual boundaries, and "Giving & Getting Consent," while later ones focus on community and helping others. Brian skillfully balances kid-friendly scenarios (tickling, the gift of an unsuitable pet) with clear but gentle information about safety: a phone with text messages reading "send pics" and "wanna meet?"; a firm note that if a "picture shows someone under 18 without clothes on, it's a crime." The text also acknowledges that not all kids have the power to stand up to the adults in their lives: "It's great when your family supports your choices. But if they don't, you have a few options," such as "reach[ing] out to supportive friends" or "think[ing] about what you'll do differently as an adult." The twin emphases on clear and direct communication and that it's OK to change your mind are important messages effectively delivered. A book to own and refer to, often. (Graphic nonfiction. 6-10)
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December 23, 2019
In a graphic novel follow-up to her viral animated shorts Tea Consent and Consent for Kids, debut author Brian takes readers through lessons about consent and boundary setting, delineating appropriate responses to violations and modeling healthy relationships along the way. Eight short chapters break down larger concepts into specific situations and equip young readers with knowledge of their rights, identify various relational red flags (abuse of power, control, inappropriate grooming, etc.), and offer ways to articulate and assert themselves. Readers are also invited to reflect on their own behaviors and encouraged to practice asking for consent, listen with discernment, and safely support friends in difficult situations. Brian’s flat drawings in a webcomic style are rendered in grayscale and accented with turquoise. Characters with stick-figure arms and legs reflect a range of ages, skin tones, and physical abilities. What’s remarkable is how Brian expresses such serious, complicated subject matter so concisely and thoroughly, with simplicity and tone-appropriate wit and humor. The result is a digestible, memorable volume meant to spark enlightened action: “CONSENT TAKES PRACTICE. The more that people around you practice consent, the more natural it is for everyone.” A useful, well-executed resource. Ages 6–10.
Starred review from January 1, 2020
Grades 2-5 *Starred Review* This illustrated adaptation of (and expansion on) Brian's viral video Consent for Kids guides readers through understanding consent and navigating various uncomfortable or confusing social situations involving their bodies. Stressing the concept of bodily autonomy, Brian lays out unambiguous rules for both giving and receiving consent, especially with regard to personal boundaries. She covers how to know when consent is or isn't given (directly or indirectly); how people abuse power to pressure others; how clothing communicates (it cannot give consent); having the right to change your mind; identifying unhealthy and healthy relationships; and how, when someone betrays your trust, it is not your fault. More modern situations involving technology (sharing photos, videos, etc.) are considered as well, and the lessons are related through lighthearted cartoons, making this difficult topic approachable, easily consumable, and even fun. Brian's artwork is laid out in bold typeface and clear-flowing panels and spot illustrations, starring a cast of simple, stick-limbed characters that is inclusive of race, gender, and ability. Throughout, the value of building strong friendships and support systems is emphasized, and after prompting readers to reflect upon their own experiences giving or receiving consent, Brian closes by offering resources to help those in need. Amusing, edifying, and empowering, this should be required reading for all consenting, corporeal human beings.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)
January 1, 2020
Gr 2-5-Brian's "Consent: It's as Simple as Tea" video, which uses a cup of tea as a metaphor for sexual consent, went viral several years ago. Now the animator teaches children how to establish boundaries and speak up for themselves when they don't want to be hugged (or tickled or tackled or pinched or pushed). Brian notes that respecting others begins with self-respect, and though consent is an essential part of sexuality, it's also key to cultivating healthy friendships. The scenarios and analogies here sit comfortably within the scope of a child's experience-you can decline if someone gives you a chewed-up French fry, for example. You might have to hold an adult's hand when crossing a parking lot even though you don't want to, but it's fine to ask the adult to ease up on their grip. If you've agreed to let someone hurl pies at your face in the past, you can change your mind. You should say no if someone offers to show you an embarrassing photo of a friend. Though the book steers clear of explicit sexual content, Brian adds that pictures and videos should never be shared without the subject's consent, and that taking and sending nude photos of children under 18 is a crime. Varied panel layouts and two-color cartoon art featuring appealing, blobby stick-figure characters keep the book lively. VERDICT Brian takes on a potentially touchy subject with humor and clarity. This is a book that can be read in an hour, but its lessons should, and will, stay with readers for a lifetime.-Paula Willey, Enoch Pratt Free Library
Copyright 2019 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.