That Crazy April

Reach for this book when your daughter begins to notice the subtle, and sometimes not-so-subtle, ways that society treats boys and girls differently. Eleven-year-old Sybil is navigating a month of minor disasters, from a mortifying fashion show to changing dynamics in her middle school social circle, all while observing her mother's growing involvement in the women's liberation movement. It is a thoughtful exploration of finding one's own voice when caught between traditional expectations and new, often confusing, social changes. This story is ideal for the pre-teen years when children start questioning the 'status quo' of gender roles and family dynamics. While set in the late 1970s, the emotional core of trying to define yourself apart from your parents' ideologies remains incredibly relevant. It offers a gentle but honest look at self-confidence, fairness, and the sometimes embarrassing process of growing up.