Dating and Relating: A Guy's Guide to Girls (Guys' Guides)

Grade 6-8-Dispensing quick advice, Eshom covers puberty, health, nutrition, exercise, skin problems, facial hair, attire, and self-esteem. Of particular interest are the pages that encourage "decent, mediocre, or even semi-bad athletes" to find enjoyable sports activities. A list of alternative sports that "truly rock" is included. There are warnings against the use of steroids and becoming a "bad sport." For more depth, but less color and appeal, consult Rubie Saunders's Good Grooming for Boys (Watts, 1989; o.p.). With chapter titles like "I Used to Think That Girls Had Cooties, But Now-" and "Welcome to Dumpsville, Population: 1," Dating is sure to have popular appeal. Addressing puberty, making friends with girls, flirting, how to kiss, reasons for not having sex, and how to break up, Kelly's advice will help foster understanding and respect between the sexes. "Ten Things You Should Never Do to a Girl" and a listing of situations in which it is best to end a relationship are particularly helpful. Readers desiring more detail might try Dale Carlson's Boys Have Feelings Too (Atheneum, 1980; o.p.). Eshom's and Kelly's slim volumes are splashed with trendy, colorful illustrations and savvy voices that show that life may have its momentary pains, but that on the whole it is a desirable adventure.
Cindy Darling Codell, Clark Middle School, Winchester, KY
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