STAR Reading Recommendations
In February 2023, we challenged our community to "Read & Raise," urging everyone to explore books recommended by survivors and advocates. Although the fundraiser has wrapped up, we believe the vital sharing of knowledge and healing resources must continue.
NEW IN 2026!
Our Prevention and Education Specialists have added a list of their top book recommendations for reading with children from their earliest years through their teens. It’s never too early to start conversations about consent, boundaries, and healthy relationships!
Let us know what you think of these titles (and/or suggest books we should add) by emailing us at [email protected]. Happy Reading!
NOTE: "Read more" links to more information about these titles from The Story Graph.
PREVENTION & EDUCATION FOR PARENTS & KIDS
This is My Body: I Get to Choose (0-6 years)
by Brook Sitgraves Turner,
with photographs by Kati Douglas
A lively introduction to bodily autonomy and
consent for ages 0–6. This engaging book
features real children and adults modeling
everyday consent through gestures like fist
bumps, self-hugs, and the ASL signs for “yes” and
“no.” It empowers little ones to understand that
their bodies belong to them. With thoughtful
discussion prompts for families and educators, it
is a warm and practical tool for starting early
conversations about boundaries and respect.
Yes! No! A First Conversation About Consent (2-5 years)
by Megan Madison & Jessica Ralli; illustrated by Isabel Roxas
Yes! No!, introduces young children to the idea of bodily autonomy and respecting boundaries. Through simple, concrete examples like “Do you want a hug?”, the book shows both how to ask permission and how to recognize when someone might change their mind.
From My Head to My Toes, I Say What Goes (3-9 years)
by Charlotte Barkla; illustrated by
Jacqui Lee
This book teaches children about body
autonomy and consent in a clear, age-appropriate way. With playful rhymes
and examples like choosing whether to
give a hug, the book empowers kids to
set boundaries and trust their instincts,
reinforcing that they are in charge of
their own bodies.
PREVENTION & EDUCATION FOR PARENTS & KIDS
We Can Say No (3-5 years)
by Lydia Bowers
This is a picture book for ages 3–5. It follows
classmates as they learn that their bodies—
including their hair, wheelchairs, and
personal space—belong to them and that
it’s okay to say “no” when someone touches
without their permission. Featuring
everyday classroom situations, it equips
young readers—and their caregivers or
educators—with language and confidence
to set boundaries early.
My Body Belongs to Me (3-8 years)
by Jill Starishevsky; illustrated by Sara
Muller
This book is a rhyming children’s book
that empowers young readers to
understand personal boundaries and
recognize inappropriate touch. Giving a
real-life story, the book is uplifting. It
affirms that speaking up is never the
child's fault and helps them continue to
grow strong and confident.
Your Body Belongs to You (3-8 years)
By Cornelia Spelman
The book gently defines private parts,
frames physical affection as optional, and
encourages kids to speak up or seek help
when something feels wrong. The
prefatory note for parents guides
supportive conversations. It emphasizing
respect for children’s personal boundaries
while reinforcing that saying “no” doesn’t
threaten relationships.
PREVENTION & EDUCATION FOR PARENTS & KIDS
We Listen to Our Bodies (3-5 years)
by Lydia Bowers; illustrated by Isabel
Muñoz
This book is designed for young children
ages 3–5. It follows Deja and her preschool
classmates as they learn to recognize their
emotions through the physical messages
their bodies send—like a racing heart or a
tight stomach. With support from their
teacher, they practice listening to these
cues to better understand feelings and
boundaries. This book is a helpful tool for
caregivers and educators to start early
conversations about body awareness,
safety, and consent.
Tell Someone (4-8 years)
by Debra Kempf Shumaker; illustrated by
Tristan Yuvienco
This book empowers children to speak up
when something doesn't feel right—whether
it's a hurt, a worry, or a secret that feels too
heavy to hold alone. Through simple
language and engaging illustrations, this
book reassures kids that it's okay to ask for
help and that there are trusted adults who
will listen and support them. It gives a gentle,
important reminder that their voice matters.
The Every Body Book of Consent (8+ years)
by Rachel E. Simon
A vibrant, age-appropriate sex and
relationships education book for children
ages 8+. It uses clear, gender-neutral
language and inclusive illustrations to explore
topics such as puberty, sex, consent, body
diversity, pregnancy, and various family
structures, while celebrating differences across race, faith, bodies,
gender, and sexuality. Serving as both a
conversation starter and educational
resource for kids, caregivers, and
educators. This book includes helpful adult
guidance and further reading to support
open, affirming discussions.
PREVENTION & EDUCATION FOR PARENTS & TEENS
Can We Talk About Consent? (Ages 13+)
by Justin Hancock; illustrated by Fuchsia
MacAree
This book is an engaging guide for teens on
understanding and practicing consent
across daily interactions—from greetings
and shared snacks to relationships and
beyond. Through real-life examples and fun
metaphors! It builds communication
confidence, respect for boundaries, and
awareness of factors like power and
privilege. The book also includes
discussion prompts, smart illustrations,
and resources to help readers explore
consent in group settings and society at
large.