The Things We Can’t Unsee by Kerri Isham
Short Summary
The Things We Can’t Unsee: How to Talk to Your Kids About Pornography by Kerri Isham is a Canadian book published in 2019 that uses story and rhyme to help kids understand the impact of pornography. It provides a child-friendly way to explain why porn isn’t real, how it can affect their minds, and why talking to a trusted adult is important if they see it.
Age Group
Suitable for children aged 8 to 12 years.
Topics Discussed
Porn
Note: Sex Ed Rescue is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. See our disclosure for more information.
Buy a Copy
Buy a copy of The Things We Can’t Unsee by Kerri Isham from the author’s website.
What this book is about
- The Things We Can’t Unsee is a picture-style book that follows the story of a boy who encounters pornography online and learns how to respond.
- Begins with a rhyme about an ordinary child who enjoys using the internet, but is warned by adults that some things seen online can’t be forgotten.
- Shows how pornography can create strong reactions in the body and mind, and reassures children that these feelings are normal.
- The boy in the story decides to talk to his dad, who listens, understands, and helps him set up software to block porn and make the internet feel safer.
- Highlights peer pressure too, when another child at school shows him porn, and he confidently explains why it isn’t healthy or real.
- Uses age-appropriate metaphors, like comparing porn’s effect on the brain to a swarm of bees, to make the science easier for kids to understand.
- Emphasises the importance of speaking to a trusted adult and asking questions when something online is upsetting or confusing.
- Includes additional resources and points parents towards Kerri Isham’s website for more guidance.
I hope you find this book review helpful!
Happy talking!
❤️ Cath