Just Ask Elsie is Jennifer Mathieu‘s Moxie meets Maggie Horne‘a Hazel Hill Is Gonna Win This One. Give this to tweens with a passion for activism or those with puberty questions that aren’t looking for a nonfiction option.

I absolutely adored this delightfully queer book about a girl fighting to educate her peers about puberty and sexuality. This will inspire kids to be the change that they want to see, and to know that they deserve the opportunity to be able to fully know and understand who they are and what is happening to them. I could not love this story more!!!!

I came away from Just Ask Elsie by Ari Koontz feeling both nostalgic and deeply moved. The book captures the awkward, confusing, and wildly emotional transition into adolescence with a voice that is at once funny, realistic, and compassionate. Its protagonist, an 11‑year-old navigating puberty classes, crushes, identity questions, and school gossip, feels so authentic — like someone you remember being, or wish you had as a friend when you were young.

What stood out most to me was how bravely Koontz handles subjects often whispered about or ignored — from consent and bodily changes to gender, sexuality, and queer identity — with gentleness and clarity rather than judgment. The way the story acknowledges embarrassment, confusion, and history‑making courage felt important and affirming. The humor and innocence of youth are still there, but layered with a maturity of heart and empathy that makes the book valuable (even as an adult).

I can’t help but wish a book like this existed when I was younger — or that I had a younger sibling or student who’d get to read it. It’s the kind of story that gives voice to the messy, beautiful, confusing experiences of growing up, while also offering hope, community, and compassion. I’d recommend Just Ask Elsie to anyone — child, teen, or adult — who believes kids deserve to see themselves reflected with respect, honesty, and love.