I think we are all reassured that discussions with our
young people, particularly in schools, have begun to break down the taboo
topics of the past and enable our students to feel empowered and safe. In my own schools I have been part of many open, frank, and important discussions presented by both in-house personnel and external providers such as police liaison officers.
These sessions are often scheduled intermittently so what if a student needs to know more immediately the ins and outs of vital topics such as consent?
This is when a book such as this will be such a
valuable addition to any collection and particularly so as it is presented in
such a way that any student will be able to relate to and implement the advice
given.
Starting with the premise of pizza (yes!) and providing pizza options to suit everyone’s tastes and needs, this stylishly designed manual offers sound and simple advice for navigating the sometimes-tricky situations where consent is paramount.
As one would expect sex is given a prominent space,
but we all know that consent is not just about sexual interactions. The book
covers a wide range of situations from greetings to personal choices to
empowering others, and essentially gives readers all the needed tools and
strategies to build respectful consensual relationships.
The riotously colourful graphic art by illustrator Fuchsia MacAree is exactly the right style to grab the attention of the intended audience and the text is formatted in easily digested chunks making the reading experience engaging and entertaining.
Title: Can We Talk about Consent? A Book About Freedom, Choices and AgreementIllustrator: Fuchsia MacAree
Publisher: Allen & Unwin, Quarto Group UK, Imprint: Frances Lincoln Children's, $19.99
Publication Date: 5 January 2021
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780711256545
For ages: 13+
Type: Non Fiction