Book Review
A short overview of this book
Willies: A User’s Guide by ZEP Helene Bruller is a book for kids about puberty with a focus on understanding love and sex. Topic included are being in love, puberty, making love (sex), making babies, protecting yourself (contraception and STIs) and getting help.
Now, the title – Willies – is misleading, as it gives you the impression that it is just for penis-owners. But it isn’t. It is perfect for kids of all biological sexes and genders.
I love this book. It is sooo funny! And it would be perfect for reading with kids who aren’t too keen to read a book about puberty. My 10 year old son (who rolls his eyes whenever I suggest we read a puberty book together) loved it. I let him read it by himself, and he actually came up and asked questions about the things he didn’t understand. And I have even seen him reading this book again.
What I really like is how this book talks about love, sex and relationships. Puberty is an age where kids start to think about these things differently. And books, like this one, can help them to gain a better understanding.
It explains it very nicely, in a simple way. And the humour makes what can be an awkward topic, much easier.
This is a vintage book but the information is still very relevant.
You can learn more on this page, about how to talk to kids about puberty.
Ideal Age
Ideal for children aged 9 to 13 years.
Buy this book
✅ Buy a copy of Willies: A User’s Guide by ZEP Helene Bruller 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. This is a YouTube channel where I review books about love, sex, relationships, puberty, and more. It’s also a website where you can find resources and information to help you have open and honest conversations with your kids about sex, breaking that cycle of shame.
So, today I want to talk about a vintage book I stumbled upon in the most bizarre way. There was an exhibition in an art gallery in France all about puberty and sex, and it was based on this book. I was so intrigued that I had to track down a copy, and let me tell you, it’s amazing! You can still find it on eBay, Amazon, or Abebooks if you’re interested.
Now, let’s dive into what this book covers. It talks about being in love, going through puberty, making love, making babies, and protecting yourself. It’s important to note that this book was published in 2001, so it even touches on topics like porn and online porn. Pretty ahead of its time, right?
I gave the book to my son, thinking it was suitable for kids aged nine to thirteen. I caught a glimpse of what he was reading, and I was like, Whoa, what did I give him? But when I actually sat down and read it, I realized that even though it covers some heavy topics, it does so in a funny and age-appropriate way. It’s actually quite hilarious!
One page I particularly love is where you stick your finger in a hole, and it shows a little penis going into a woman’s hole. It’s just a funny way to explain sex, and my son found it absolutely hilarious. Humor can be a great way to approach awkward topics, especially for kids who might not be into serious-looking books.
But what I really appreciate about this book is that it doesn’t just focus on the physical changes. It also emphasizes the importance of relationships. It talks about what it means to be in love, how to go on dates, and even how to kiss. It’s perfect for curious kids who are just starting to learn about this stuff.
Now, I have to mention that this book is almost 20 years old, so some of the information might be outdated or not align with your beliefs. But that’s okay! Use it as an opportunity to have conversations with your kids and explain that things have changed. It’s all about being open and adaptable.
Oh, and I can’t forget to mention that this book is inclusive of same-sex relationships too! It doesn’t assume that boys will only fall in love with girls. I think that’s really important and commendable.
All in all, I think this book is fantastic. It’s funny, informative, and a great way to get the message across to resistant boys or even girls who have a quirky sense of humor. If you’re up for it, you could even try creating your own funny version, but you might need a comedian’s touch to make it truly hilarious and not just tasteless.
I hope this review helps you out. Cheers!
