The Care and Keeping of You 1: A Must-Have Guide for Young Girls – A Comprehensive Review

Introduction: A Book That Grows With Your Child

Navigating the tween years can be a confusing and overwhelming experience—both for young girls and their parents. The Care and Keeping of You 1: The Body Book for Younger Girls by Valorie Schaefer, published by American Girl®, is a trusted resource that has helped millions of girls understand their changing bodies with confidence and clarity.

This book is more than just a puberty guide; it’s a warm, reassuring companion that empowers girls to take charge of their health and wellbeing. Whether you’re a parent looking for a supportive tool or a young girl curious about what’s happening to your body, this book delivers practical advice in a friendly, non-intimidating way.

But does it live up to its reputation? Let’s dive into a detailed review to find out.

Plot Summary: What’s Inside the Book?

Unlike traditional novels, The Care and Keeping of You 1 is structured as an informative guide. It covers essential topics related to physical and emotional changes during puberty, including:

  • Hygiene Basics – From brushing teeth to washing hair, the book reinforces everyday self-care habits.
  • Body Changes – Growth spurts, developing breasts, body hair, and skin changes are explained in simple, reassuring terms.
  • Nutrition & Exercise – Encourages healthy eating and staying active without promoting diet culture.
  • Emotional Wellbeing – Discusses mood swings, friendships, and self-esteem.
  • Privacy & Safety – Teaches girls about personal boundaries and body autonomy.

The book avoids overwhelming medical jargon, instead using relatable language and illustrations to make complex topics approachable.

Character & Tone: A Trusted Friend, Not a Textbook

While there aren’t traditional “characters,” the book’s voice is its greatest strength. It reads like advice from a kind, knowledgeable older sister—never preachy or condescending. The tone is:

  • Reassuring – It normalizes changes, emphasizing that every girl develops at her own pace.
  • Inclusive – While primarily written for cisgender girls, it avoids alienating language.
  • Interactive – Encourages journaling and self-reflection with prompts like “How do you feel about the changes happening to you?”

The illustrations by Josee Masse are bright, diverse, and anatomically accurate without being clinical, making the content accessible for younger readers.

Writing Style & Narrative Technique: Clear, Engaging, and Age-Appropriate

Schaefer’s writing is conversational yet precise, striking a balance between being informative and engaging. Key strengths include:

  • Short, digestible sections – Perfect for readers with shorter attention spans.
  • Q&A format – Addresses common concerns (e.g., “What if I’m the first in my class to get my period?”).
  • Visual aids – Diagrams (like how to use a pad) enhance understanding.

Unlike some puberty books that feel overly technical, this one meets kids at their level—answering questions they might not even know how to ask.

Themes & Deeper Meanings: More Than Just “The Talk”

Beyond physical changes, the book subtly reinforces broader life lessons:

  • Self-Respect – Encourages girls to appreciate their bodies, regardless of shape or size.
  • Independence – Teaches responsibility for personal hygiene and health.
  • Emotional Intelligence – Validates feelings of confusion or embarrassment.

One standout theme is normalization—the book reassures girls that everyone goes through this, reducing anxiety about being “different.”

Personal Reading Experience: Why This Book Stands Out

As someone who read this book as a tween (and later gifted it to younger relatives), I can vouch for its lasting impact. Unlike awkward school health classes, it provides clear, judgment-free answers—something many girls desperately need.

Emotionally, it’s a safe space. The book never shames natural bodily functions, which is crucial for developing a positive self-image.

Comparison to Other Books in the Genre

How does it stack up against similar guides?

  • Vs. The Care and Keeping of You 2 – The sequel (for older girls) covers more advanced topics like bras and periods in-depth. This first book is better for 8-10-year-olds just starting to notice changes.
  • Vs. It’s Perfectly Normal – While Robie Harris’s book is more comprehensive (including sex ed), The Care and Keeping of You 1 is gentler for younger readers.
  • Vs. Celebrate Your Body – Sonya Renee Taylor’s book is more body-positive but targets a slightly older audience.

Verdict: This is the best introductory guide for girls not yet in full-blown puberty but curious about their bodies.

Strengths & Minor Weaknesses

Strengths ✅

✔ Accessible & Engaging – Perfect for independent reading.
✔ Parent-Approved – Many moms credit this book for making “the talk” easier.
✔ Timeless Content – Still relevant decades after its first publication.

Weaknesses ❌

✖ Limited Inclusivity – Doesn’t address transgender or non-binary identities.
✖ No Digital Updates – Some hygiene tips (like haircare) could use modern tweaks.

Still, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise excellent resource.

Who Should Read This Book?

Ideal for:

  • Girls aged 8-11 (before or during early puberty).
  • Parents who want a subtle way to introduce body changes.
  • Educators & Counselors looking for a trusted classroom resource.

Not for:

  • Older teens (they’ll need the sequel or a more advanced guide).
  • Readers seeking LGBTQ+ inclusive puberty content.

Memorable Quotes & Passages

“Your body is your own, and it’s changing in ways that are perfectly normal.”

“There’s no ‘right’ way to look as you grow—just your way.”

These lines capture the book’s empowering, reassuring tone.

Final Verdict: A Must-Have for Growing Girls

The Care and Keeping of You 1 is the gold standard for puberty books for younger girls. It’s compassionate, clear, and practical—everything a tween needs to navigate changes with confidence.

Whether you’re a parent, guardian, or a curious kid, this book is a worthy investment in a girl’s wellbeing.

🔗 Get the Book: Amazon

Discussion Questions for Readers

  • Did you (or your child) find this book helpful?
  • What’s the best way to introduce puberty topics to young kids?
  • Are there other inclusive books you’d recommend alongside this one?

Let’s chat in the comments! 📚💬

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