Girling Up: How to Be Strong, Smart and Spectacular

Gr 7 Up—According to the author, the transition from girlhood to womanhood (which she dubs "Girling Up") is full of excitement and cause for celebration. However, along the way there are challenges, and what girls today need is reassurance. Bialik, who plays Dr. Amy Farrah Fowler on the television show The Big Bang Theory and in real life holds a doctorate in neuroscience from the University of California, provides readers with just that in this refreshing guide to female development. Topics addressed include puberty, education, romance, and goal setting. The author emphasizes the importance of girls taking charge and being comfortable with their bodies. She offers examples of how readers should deal with various issues, such as focusing in school, in a conversational manner. Peppered throughout are cartoon line drawings of girls hanging out together, demonstrating yoga poses to relieve menstrual cramps, and more. Though cute, these illustrations are often underwhelming. Ultimately, the author stresses that "Girling Up" does not end with adulthood—it is a lifelong journey. Thanks to Bialik, readers have a road map to make this trip memorable. VERDICT Consider for large memoir and self-help collections.—Jeanette Lambert, formerly at Nashville-Davidson County Schools, TN