What Girls Are Made Of

Reach for this book when your daughter is navigating the complexities of her first serious romantic relationship, or if you notice her struggling with the internal pressure to be perfect for others. Elana K. Arnold offers a raw, unflinching look at Nina, a sixteen-year-old girl who believes her value is tied to her utility and her physical self, specifically in relation to her boyfriend and her mother's expectations. It is an honest exploration of female desire, bodily autonomy, and the dismantling of the myth that a girl must give herself away to be loved. This is a sophisticated and visceral read for older teens (14+) that does not shy away from the messy realities of adolescence. Parents might choose this to open a dialogue about consent, self-worth, and the difference between love and sacrifice. It serves as a powerful mirror for girls who feel they are losing themselves in the attempt to be what society, or a partner, demands.