It's So Amazing!: A Book about Eggs, Sperm, Birth, Babies, and Families
The Family Library Series
What’s inside...
IT'S SO AMAZING! is a book by Robie H. Harris and Michael Emberley that answers common questions children have about reproduction, babies, sex, and sexuality. Featuring comic-book-style artwork and clear, lively text, the book is designed to reflect elementary-school children's interest in how things work while providing a healthy understanding of their bodies. This newly updated edition covers similar topics as IT'S PERFECTLY NORMAL but is tailored for a slightly younger audience. From the trusted team of Robie H. Harris and Michael Emberley, this classic resource for younger children receives its most ambitious update yet. It provides children age seven and up with honest answers they’re looking for through age-appropriate, reassuring words and accurate, up-to-date, inclusive art. Two cartoon characters, Bird and Bee, voices of kids, talk together to help children feel that they are not the only ones wondering how we all began. The book addresses pregnancy, birth, adoption, bodies, sexuality, gender identity, and safe touching, and supports discussions about straight and LGBTQ+ families and people, making it a comprehensive resource for kids, parents, teachers, and healthcare providers.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
88 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you feel about how babies are made after reading this book?
What was something new you learned about families from this story?
Why do you think understanding our bodies is important?
How do different families show love to each other?
What questions do you still have about where babies come from?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage open dialogue by listening actively and validating your child’s thoughts and feelings.
Use the book’s illustrations to visually explain concepts that might be abstract for your child.
Be honest and use age-appropriate language to answer any questions they might have.
Reassure your child that curiosity about these topics is normal and healthy.
Connect themes from the book to real-life examples in your family or community to make it more relatable.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding human biology and reproduction
Explanation: The book provides clear, age-appropriate explanations about human reproduction including details about eggs, sperm, and fetal development.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this knowledge to comprehend their own bodies better, leading to enhanced self-awareness and a foundation for future learning in biology.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of family diversity
Explanation: Through engaging narratives and illustrations, the book showcases a variety of family structures and the many ways people can be connected.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children to accept and celebrate diversity among their peers and within their own communities, fostering inclusivity and respect from an early age.
Example Lesson: Understanding the birth process
Explanation: The book demystifies childbirth by describing the process in a straightforward manner.
Real-World Application: Children gain a basic understanding of where babies come from, which can eliminate misinformation and fear, and help them appreciate the role of parents and caregivers.
Example Lesson: Promoting open family communication
Explanation: It encourages questions and dialogue between children and adults about sometimes challenging topics.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to feel comfortable discussing diverse topics with their parents or guardians, reinforcing trust and openness in familial relationships.
Example Lesson: Respect for privacy and boundaries
Explanation: The book delicately balances providing factual information while emphasizing personal boundaries and privacy.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of respecting personal boundaries, leading to healthier social interactions and awareness of consent even from an early age.