So That’s What’s Happening by Gina Dawson

Short Summary

So That’s What’s Happening by Gina Dawson is a gentle, factual puberty book for children aged around 8 to 12 years. It explains what puberty is, why bodies change, and what kids might notice as they grow – without shame, panic, or overload. This is a calm, reassuring introduction that meets kids where they’re at, especially as puberty starts earlier for many children.

Age Group

Suitable for children aged 8 to 11 years.

Topics Discussed

Australian | Puberty

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Buy a Copy

Buy a copy of So That’s What’s Happening by Gina Dawson from Amazon.

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What this book is about

  • So That’s What’s Happening explains puberty in a way that feels safe and manageable for younger readers.
  • It starts by reassuring kids that puberty is normal and that everyone goes through changes, just not all at the same time.
  • The book covers body shape changes, hair growth, sweaty armpits, body odour, oily skin, and pimples.
  • It explains voice changes and differences between bodies in a clear, age-appropriate way.
  • There is basic information about reproduction and how babies are made, without diving straight into explicit sexual detail.
  • The book gently introduces sexual intercourse as something connected to care and attraction, not just baby-making.
  • Periods are explained for girls, and boys’ changes like erections and wet dreams are included too.
  • It normalises things kids often worry about, like breast development in boys, hair in new places, and feeling awkward in their bodies.
  • Feelings, growing independence, and emotional changes are woven throughout the book.
  • Body image is addressed in a supportive way, encouraging kids to feel okay about how their body looks and changes.
  • The illustrations show a range of body shapes and skin tones, which really matters for helping kids feel seen and included.
  • The tone is reassuring rather than dramatic, helping counter the fear-based messages kids often hear about puberty.
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I hope you find this book review helpful!

Happy talking!
❤️ Cath

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Cath Hakanson is a qualified family sex educator, sexual health nurse and author with 30+ years of clinical and education experience. As an AuDHD parent of two neurodivergent children, she creates clear, practical sex ed resources that help parents talk about bodies, puberty, consent, porn, relationships and sex without shame or judgement.