Honest: Everything They Don't Tell You About Sex, Relationships and Bodies

This book is a how-to guide to growing up, if you will, that is inclusive of LGBTQ+ identities throughout. Covering a range of topics, from one’s anatomy, to sex, consent, masturbation, sexuality, gender identity, growing up in the digital age and mental health. Additionally, Evans is careful to include professionals and own-voices in her educational narrative; interviewing Yasmin Benoit, an asexual activist in the chapter about sexuality, speaking with Pheebs Jameson, an activist against sexual violence when talking about unhealthy relationships and the impact this can have on one’s mental health. Although primarily text based, the books illustrations allow for a more relaxed, less daunting reading experience. At the end of each chapter, there is a resource section, with a list of websites, recommended reading and helplines that can provide more information on the aforementioned topic discussed.

There are some heavy subjects discussed in this book, but this makes them all the more important to talk about. Perhaps something to be aware of, the content of this may be upsetting in parts with mentions of sexual assault and abusive relationships, while this is of course very important to talk about, it may not be as suitable for younger teenagers. Nonetheless, an educational, entertaining and uplifting read.