The Pride Guide

Longtime therapist and sex educator Langford has written an indispensable guide to a universe of things sexual and social for LGBTQ+ youth and their parents or caregivers. Written in an accessible and always empathetic style, the book is never dreary or didactic. On the contrary, though it deals with serious matters (some of them life-or-death), it manages its material with a light touch; the author has a sense of humor and, happily, it shows. The content is near encyclopedic, ranging from biology to coming out, from dating to “the religion thing,” and from casual sex to personal safety. It is particularly complete and enlightening in terms of its coverage of transgender matters, cutting through the thicket of confusing jargon that usually surrounds this nuanced consideration. Langford also gives welcome, timely attention to things digital, including porn, online dating, and safety. At a time when too many sex-education courses continue to ignore LGBTQ+ issues and kids, the book is essential in providing necessary information and, yes, reassurance, though the author is quick to encourage his readers to do their own research. Aside from its intended audience, this excellent book will be useful for therapists and teachers. It belongs in every library.

— Booklist, Starred Review

This inclusive, though thorough resource respectfully presents information relevant to many queer teens and adults raising LGBTQIA+ kids. VERDICT: Shelve this empowering guide where both parents and teens will find it
— School Library Journal

LGBT teens and their parents will find up-to-date information about a wide range of sexual topics that will help them make more informed decisions about how to navigate puberty and adolescence. Jo’s book is cutting-edge, with up-to-date information, and current thinking about these underserved populations.
— Joe Kort, Ph.D., MSW, MA; author of Gay Affirmative Therapy for the Straight Clinician: The Essential Guide