The first thing Harriet (aged eight) said on seeing The Confidence Code for Girls by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman was, "Does it mention perseverance?" I was, needless to say, impressed.
Harriet is in the lower age range this book is aimed at eight to 12-year-old girls – and my feeling is that the younger the girl, the more adult input needed.
The Confidence Code is based on cutting-edge science: "Confidence is what turns thoughts into action."
"Thoughts + Confidence = Action"
The book is brimming with quizzes, comic strips, real life scenarios to help pre-teens find their own way in the confidence stakes. It busts the myths of perfectionism and encourages girls to take risks and embrace failure.
Divided into three sections:
The Confidence Code for Girls is a powerful, practical guide with examples of situations young girls will be only too aware of and ways to boost their confidence.
Katty Kay and Claire Shipman have done an excellent job. Every girl should have a copy – and some adults might learn a thing or two along the way as well.
PWT rating: ♥♥♥♥♥
The Confidence Code for Girls: Taking Risks, Messing Up, and Becoming Your Amazingly Imperfect, Totally Powerful Self