Go with the Flow by Karen Schneemann

Book Review

A short overview of this book

Go with the Flow by Karen Schneemann is a graphic novel (like a comic book) fior kids about periods.

Books like this can be a different way to encourage reluctant readers to read an educational book. Turning it into a graphic novel that tells a story whilst also teaching kids about periods, is a winning combination.

The book includes the stories of four different girls and their differing experiences of periods. First crushes are included, along with all the social changes that happen with growing up.

You can learn more on this page, about how to talk to kids about sex education

Ideal Age

Ideal for children aged 10 to 14 years.

Buy this book

✅ Buy a copy of Go with the Flow by Karen Schneemann from Amazon.

Video Transcription

A transcription in case you are more of a reader than a listener

Hey there! I’m Cath Hak, and welcome to Sex Ed Rescue. On my YouTube channel, Sex Ed Rescue, I review books that can help parents have conversations with their kids about sex education, including topics like periods. If you want more resources and information to make those conversations easier and better, check out the Sex Ed Rescue website.

Today, I want to talk about a graphic novel called Go With The Flow by Lily Williams and Karen Scheemann. First off, I absolutely loved the color palette of this book. It really fits with the theme of blood and adds a cool touch. As my kids are growing older, I find it harder to sit down and read a book with them. They’re becoming more picky about what they like to read. That’s where graphic novels come in handy. They’re quick, easy, and have awesome illustrations.

Graphic novels are becoming really popular among kids, and there are now authors who are writing about relationships, growing up, and even realizing your sexual orientation. At first, I thought this book was just about period poverty, which is definitely relevant but maybe a bit boring to read about. However, I was pleasantly surprised.

The story revolves around four girls. One of them is new to the school and gets her period unexpectedly. She ends up with blood on her hands, and people start laughing at her. But then, these three amazing girls come to her rescue and take her to the bathroom. Unfortunately, the pad machine is empty, and one of the girls gets upset about it. She starts questioning why these products aren’t easily accessible.

Throughout the book, they weave in information about periods naturally through the story. I think they did a really good job with it. The new girl goes home and tells her mom, who provides her with products. But then she’s faced with the challenge of figuring out how to use tampons. Luckily, she talks to her new friend the next day and they have a comfortable conversation about it. They share facts and information, but in a way that feels easy to understand.

The book also touches on embarrassing moments and period pain. One of the girls experiences severe cramps and can’t go to school sometimes. There’s even a male teacher who makes a comment about her attendance, not knowing about her condition. It’s a great way to introduce topics like endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome. The mean girls in the story also get what they deserve in the end.

Overall, Go With The Flow is a lovely book. It talks about liking someone and how it can affect our behavior towards others. It’s filled with little nuggets of education, all woven together beautifully. I’m definitely keeping an eye out for more books from this author because they really nailed it. While I wouldn’t call it a purely factual book, I often borrow books like this and give them to my kids to read. They’re a fantastic way to share information in a different and engaging way.

I hope you found this review helpful. Cheers!

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