Gary just didn’t know the rules by Holly-ann Martin

Short Summary

Gary Just Didn’t Know The Rules by Holly-ann Martin is a child-friendly, carefully written book that helps children understand safety rules, body boundaries, and what to do when someone doesn’t follow those rules. Drawing on the author’s real-world work in protective behaviours, the story addresses tricky situations in a calm, non-scary way and reinforces that children have the right to feel safe and be believed.

Age Group

Suitable for children aged 6 to 12 years.

Topics Discussed

Body Safety | Prevent Sexual Abuse | Private Parts | Sexual Abuse

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Buy a copy of Gary just didn’t know the rules by Holly-ann Martin from Amazon or the Author.

What this book is about

• The story introduces Gary, a new student in a classroom where children are learning about rules, rights, and personal safety.
• It explains key protective concepts such as public and private spaces, body boundaries, and the idea that everyone has the right to feel safe.
• The book is based on situations the author encounters in her professional work, which gives it a grounded, realistic feel.
• Sensitive topics, including child-to-child sexual behaviour and exposure to explicit images, are handled gently without graphic detail.
• Children are taught that sometimes people break rules because they don’t know them, not because the child did anything wrong.
• A strong message throughout is that if something feels confusing, uncomfortable, or wrong, children should tell a trusted adult.
• The book reassures children that they will be believed and supported, and that keeping them safe is the adult’s responsibility.
• Additional guidance for adults is included at the back of the book, making it a useful tool for parents, teachers, and professionals.
• The language is clear and concrete, which works well for children who need straightforward explanations rather than vague warnings.

I hope you find this book review helpful!

Happy talking!
❤️ Cath