About the Authors

Cara Natterson, MD, is a board-certified pediatrician and the author of multiple best-selling books on child health and development. Vanessa Kroll Bennett is a writer and educator with deep expertise in puberty education. Together, they founded the popular newsletter and podcast This Is So Awkward, which reaches thousands of families across Canada and beyond. Their combined perspective—medical and educational—makes this book uniquely comprehensive and practical.

Overview

Navigating the teenage years can feel overwhelming for both kids and adults, especially with today’s digital and social complexities. This Is So Awkward: Modern Puberty Explained offers a fresh, empathetic guide that cuts through confusion with clarity and evidence-based advice. Written by paediatrician Cara Natterson, MD, and educator Vanessa Kroll Bennett, this resource addresses the physical, emotional, and social changes of adolescence in a way that resonates with modern families. Whether you’re a parent trying to start a conversation or a teen seeking answers, this book delivers the facts and reassurance you need—without judgment.

What Makes This Book Different?

Unlike traditional puberty guides that often feel dated or clinical, This Is So Awkward dives into the realities of growing up in a digital, diverse world. It covers topics like social media, gender identity, consent, and mental health with the same thoroughness as biological changes. The authors combine medical expertise with real-world teaching experience, ensuring the content is accurate, relatable, and actionable. Readers frequently praise the book for answering questions they didn’t know how to ask, and for doing so in a tone that feels inclusive and supportive.

What You’ll Learn

This book goes beyond a simple list of facts—it’s a guide to navigating puberty with confidence. Key takeaways include:

• How to talk about puberty without embarrassment: scripts and strategies for parents and teens.
• Understanding physical changes: growth spurts, hormones, menstruation, voice changes, and more.
• Emotional and social shifts: managing mood swings, peer pressure, and identity exploration.
• Digital life: handling social media, sexting, and online bullying.
• Health and hygiene: sleep, nutrition, and body care for growing teens.
• Sexual health and consent: frank, age-appropriate discussions about relationships and boundaries.

Key Features

• Expert Authors: Cara Natterson, MD, is a trusted pediatrician and author of The Care and Keeping of You series. Vanessa Kroll Bennett brings years of classroom experience and a knack for making awkward topics easy to discuss.
• Modern Focus: Covers everything from puberty basics to pressing contemporary issues like online pressure, body image, and gender expression.
• Age-Appropriate: Designed for preteens, teens, and the adults who support them—no topic is off-limits, but all information is presented thoughtfully.
• Reader-Approved: Many parents, teachers, and health care providers have found this book invaluable. One reviewer noted it’s “full of information to share” and another called it “a must-read for moms and grandmoms.” Educators appreciate its practical tips for classrooms.
• Formats Available: Hardcover and audio (narrated by the authors) make it easy to digest in any setting.

Who Should Read This Book?

Parents and Caregivers: If you feel underprepared for the questions your child is asking (or too afraid to ask), this book gives you the language and knowledge to respond confidently. Teachers and Counsellors: Use it as a classroom resource or to support students one-on-one. Teens and Preteens: It’s written directly to you, with respect for your intelligence and experience. Health Care Providers: A reliable reference to recommend to families navigating early adolescence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this book appropriate for younger kids? The content is best suited for ages 9 and up, but parents should preview and decide based on their child’s maturity. The tone is frank but never graphic.

Does it cover LGBTQ+ topics? Yes. The book includes inclusive discussions about gender identity, sexual orientation, and diverse experiences of puberty.

Can I read this with my child? Absolutely. Many families use it as a springboard for conversation—the authors even suggest ways to share the material together.

How is this different from other puberty books? It addresses contemporary challenges (like social media) that older books omit, and it’s backed by the credentials of both a doctor and a teacher.

This book is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a health care provider for personal medical concerns.