Consent (for kids)

     Brian, Rachel. Consent (for kids!). Little Brown Book for Young Readers, 2020. Ages 7-9

Rachel Brian is the founder and principal animator at Blue Seat Studios. She is a former researcher and educator with a B.A in Biology from Brown university and a M.Ed. in educational psychology. She is known for her work making videos on consent for kids which have been translated into more then 20 languages. She teaches readers the basics of consent with easy to understand metaphors accompanied by illustrations.

Brian aims to normalize having conversations with each other regarding boundaries and consent. Written in a lighthearted and humorous way while still taking the subject matter seriously, this work is sure to keep young readers attention. It reads like a conversation with an older sibling or trusted friend that answers questions young readers might not have known they had. This graphic novel is organized into chapters featuring unnamed detailed stick figure protagonist. Riddled with humorous details, this is a wonderfully short resource that is invaluable for any young reader. Armed with helpful tips, metaphors, and resources, it prepares readers to advocate for themselves and their bodies. 

Brian also acknowledges that not everyone has the same amount of say or ability to advocate for themselves explaining, " “It’s great when your family supports your choices. But if they don’t, you have a few options,” such as “reach[ing] out to supportive friends” or “think[ing] about what you’ll do differently as an adult.” (Consent (for kids) 65). The author also emphasizes that as a minor, one is never to blame and that it is ok to change your mind and take your consent back. The combination of the artwork and the messages are age appropriate and belong on all shelves where curious readers can learn more about consent. This is especially important because not all families have these conversations and using a popular medium such as graphic novels to deliver the message will get it into more readers hand. 

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