Everyone should read these two books before the age of twelve because they teach us important things about growing up. They help us understand our bodies, emotions, and how to take care of ourselves.
These books also break the silence around topics that are often ignored but are a natural part of life. Reading them makes children more confident, respectful, and ready to face changes healthily and positively.
Two Books Every Human Being Should Read Before the Age of
Twelve.
1. Gulu – The Essential Guide to Puberty for Boys.
2. Menstrupedia Comic – The Friendly Guide to Periods for Girls.
1. Gulu - The Essential Guide To Puberty For Boys
Authors: Aditi Gupta and Tuhin Paul
Published by: Menstrupedia Technologies Pvt. Ltd.
Recommended Age Group: Girls aged 9 and above
“Gulu – The Essential Guide to Puberty for Boys” is an
illustrated comic-style book by Aditi Gupta and Tuhin Paul, published by
Menstrupedia (2021). Geared toward boys aged 9+, it serves as a friendly,
culturally sensitive companion through adolescence
This comic-style book helps young boys understand the
physical, emotional, and social changes they go through during puberty. Written
in a friendly, simple, and culturally relatable way, it talks about hygiene,
body changes, peer pressure, and even difficult topics like addiction and
consent — all in a way kids can understand.
Why read it early?
Because it prepares boys for real-life challenges, builds
confidence, and teaches respect, health, and emotional awareness at the right
age.
What the book covers
1. Physical & emotional changes during puberty: Explain growth spurts, voice changes, mood swings, and more.
2. Hygiene, nutrition & exercise: Offers advice on skincare, cleanliness, healthy eating, and fitness.
3. Reproductive health & sexuality: Age-appropriate conversations around attraction, consent, masturbation (a rare topic in Indian contexts), and even menstrual awareness.
4. Peer pressure & bullying: Includes strategies to help boys cope socially and build confidence.
5. Addiction awareness: Covers the harms of substance use and addictive behaviours.
Who is it for?
- Boys aged 9–14 are nearing or in early puberty.
- Parents and educators seeking an easy, sensitive way to talk about growing up.
- Anyone wanting to support boys through physical, emotional, and social changes.
2. Menstrupedia Comic: The Friendly Guide to Periods for Girls
Authors: Aditi Gupta and Tuhin Paul
Published by: Menstrupedia
Recommended Age Group: Girls aged 9 and above
Menstrupedia Comic is a colourful, illustrated, and
easy-to-understand comic book designed to teach young girls about menstruation
in a friendly and culturally appropriate way. It aims to break the silence and
taboos around periods in India and other conservative societies.
An engaging, illustrated book that explains menstruation,
body changes, hygiene, and emotions in a respectful, positive, and
easy-to-understand way. It busts common myths and helps girls feel empowered,
not embarrassed.
Why read it early?
Because it turns periods from a taboo topic into normal
conversation. It prepares girls before their first period, and it’s also a
great resource for boys and parents to understand and support.
What the Book Covers
- What periods are explained in simple terms
- Why they happen – the science of menstruation
- How to manage periods – pads, hygiene, exercise, and diet
- Handling myths and taboos – busting common cultural misconceptions
- Emotional support – dealing with mood swings, stress, and embarrassment
- Body positivity and confidence – celebrating changes, not fearing them
Why It’s Important
- Comic-style format makes it engaging and not awkward.
- Culturally sensitive – created with Indian values in mind.
- Scientifically accurate – developed with doctors and experts.
- Empowers girls – helps them feel confident and informed.
- Supports parents and teachers – makes “the talk” easier.
Who Should Read It?
- Girls aged 9–14 (especially before or during early menstruation)
- Parents who want to educate their daughters about periods
- Teachers and counsellors in schools
- Boys and families (Yes! It also helps create awareness among boys)
