Young Melbourne author and social worker Jessica Sanders has written Love Your Body to help prevent negative body image issues in young women. Stylish and fresh, this book is similar in presentation to the wildly popular Rebel Girls books. The illustrations by Brazilian artist Carol Rossetti are gorgeous, representing a truly diverse group of young people who celebrate their bodies as they move through life.

The book speaks directly to the reader, using comforting language and taking a practical approach. We are invited to consider all the amazing things bodies can do, and there are self care suggestions for those times when we aren’t feeling great. It encourages seeking support from community where necessary and also, importantly, outlines how we can be supportive toward each other. The last few pages of the book provide details for helplines and offer age-appropriate resources.

I am certain that this wonderful book will be an invaluable presence in libraries, classrooms and homes. It’s definitely a book that I wish had been available when I was growing up.

Kim Gruschow is the children’s book buyer at Readings St Kilda.