THE TALK Helping Your Kids Navigate Sex in the Real World

Alice Dreger's descriptive audiobook is a helpful tool for parents who are searching for the right words and tone to take when discussing sex with their children. Narrator Jennifer Riker's warm, conversational style is reassuring. Dreger, who has a doctorate in clinical medical humanities and bioethics, emphasizes that parents should be descriptive and not judgmental when they explain sexuality to their kids. She includes a refresher on the basics of all things sexual and encourages the use of correct terms, not slang or euphemisms. Dreger helpfully adds personal examples (from her now 15-year-old son) when discussing how to explain the difference between a sexual predator and an affectionate relative, caution about online pornography, public versus private behavior, and homosexuality. She also reminds parents to prepare their kids for people who have different viewpoints. Hearing a clear explanation about sexual consent is helpful for EVERYONE. Ultimately, listeners will appreciate this direct approach, presented in a supportive manner. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2017, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2017]