Boyology

April 6, 2009
This humorous guide provides insight into the elusive universe of boys, using questions, answers and quotations from real teens. Nebulous topics like “hooking up” (“by definition, hook-ups don't lead to boyfriends”) and being “just friends” (in one image, a beaming girl is clearly thinking “skateboarding partner” while the boy beside her has a heart in his thought bubble) are addressed with oodles of pop-culture literacy. The plethora of “how to” sections (an illustrated guide to kissing), lists (including mood-setting playlists featuring Avril Lavigne and Sleater-Kinney) and “Extra Credit” quizzes provide an entertaining tour of love and dating etiquette for beginners. More seasoned daters may find the advice formulaic. Ages 13–up.

June 1, 2009
Gr 7 Up-Burningham's humorous text and personal approach will make readers feel like an older sister or cousin is chatting with them. The author uses celebrity quotes alongside quotes from real teens culled from the MySpace polling research she conducted for this book. From basics to boy friend vs. boyfriend to first dates and breakups, the text covers all points in between. Burningham's focus is on giving girls confidence to navigate the dating experience successfully. The chapter entitled "You Wear the Pants: Setting Your Boundaries," which deals with the physical side of dating relationships, is particularly good. The author doesn't belabor the point or make suggestions for what that boundary might be but rather empowers readers throughout to make decisions for themselves. The open layout and Smith's line drawings are also standouts. Well-written and smart, "Boyology" is a strong addition to books about relationships."Elaine Baran Black, Georgia Public Library Service, Atlanta"

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