Health and Literacy Compendium Home Page
Materials Index Page

Readers (Stories and Factbooks) Index Page

Available from: McGraw-Hill Ryerson; 300 Water Street; Whitby, Ontario L1N 9B6 CANADA; phone (905) 430-5000; fax (800) 463-5885; $14.95.

This 400-page, large print reader about women's health was written in consultation with a wide range of women-- rural women, women in shelters, health professionals and others. The topics covered in the reader are those women requested, such as eating well; dealing with your "nerves"; depression; being active; controlling your weight; over-the-counter drugs; you and your doctor; sexuality; birth control; vaginal infections; pap tests; examining your breasts; and menopause. Written at about a sixth grade reading level, the personal style of the writing and the simple line drawings make it not only accessible but also interesting to read. While the book was written in Canada, most of the information is also relevant in the United States. This book takes into consideration not just people's ability to read, but also their specific life circumstances. For example, when talking about nutrition, Breen addresses the cost of food, and how to eat healthy on a tight budget. The author emphasizes mental health and emotional issues and covers sexual concerns with real care. She includes information many people may not know, such as why a woman with an IUD needs more iron in her diet. However, because of the age of the publication, not all the information is up-to-date.

Keywords: Contraception / Drugs (legal) / Mental health / Nutrition / Women's health