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Discussing self-love, confidence, and growing up in today’s world with Dr Zoe Williams
Primary Times talks with Dr Zoe Williams, practicing NHS GP and Media Medic, about navigating the rollercoaster journey and becoming your best self in her upcoming debut children’s book ‘You Grow Girl!’.
This friendly yet informative title sees Dr Zoe tackle an array of relevant and topical subjects to help girls in today’s modern world, such as healthy eating, self-care, social media, body confidence and puberty. Aimed at girls aged 9+, this growing-up guide is both accessible and engaging. We spoke with Dr Zoe about ‘You Grow Girl!’ and her hopes for the book…
What made you want to write this book for girls?
This is the book that I wish I’d had when I was growing up, but it’s been written for girls in today’s world. Our children have access to instant information at their fingertips, which may not always be reliable, age appropriate or even scientifically correct. I wanted to provide a resource which is honest, reassuring, and comprehensive. ‘You Grow Girl!’ covers topics such as body image, emotions, relationships, mental health, bullying, consent, and ‘being kind’.
Do you think you would’ve found this style of book helpful when you were growing up?
I would have found this book extremely useful. The book is designed to be a loyal, trusted companion, which is there for you whenever you face the inevitable challenges that can come with growing up. I share several anecdotes from my own experiences, which are labelled as ‘overshare moments’ in the book, as well as some from friends, in the hope that girls can laugh as well as learn from our mistakes and mishaps and take on board valuable life lessons.
Which topics covered do you think readers might enjoy the most or find most interesting?
I think that readers will immediately be drawn to the topics about body changes and periods, and the overshare moments and myth buster boxes. The bits that I think they will especially love are the ‘Dr Zoe’s prescriptions’ which are actionable tasks or activities that can make a big difference to how we think, feel and behave.
What do you want readers to hopefully take away from the book?
I want girls to feel excited about growing up and reassured that they have the tools, knowledge and skills to negotiate the challenges that they might face. I want girls to learn how to always respect themselves and their bodies and know how to look after their physical and mental health whilst growing up and beyond. Ultimately the book is designed to educate and empower, so that girls have the confidence, knowledge, and resilience to thrive.
If you could sum up ‘You Grow Girl!’ and what the book stands for in one sentence, what would it be?
‘You Grow Girl!’ is like a trusted friend who you can turn to for accurate information, a confidence boost, and your own personal cheerleader that reminds you of just how amazing you are!
Can we expect any other children’s books from you in the future that our audience can keep an eye out for?
Writing this book has been an extremely positive experience and I do have some ideas up my sleeve for other books that can help families – but keen to see how ‘You Grow Girl!’ does first.
‘You Grow Girl! The Complete No Worries Guide to Growing Up’ by Dr Zoe Williams and illustrated by Luna Valentine is published on the 8th June by Wren and Rook, RRP. £9.99.