--- title: "American Girl Publishes Body Book for Young Women" url: https://newscentral.site/american-girl-publishes-body-book-for-young-women/ language: en publisher: "News Central Site" section: "Style" published: 2026-10-30T13:00:00.000Z updated: 2026-10-31T13:51:28.766Z id: 04a8eb2c-4028-4b96-9f65-40f5d4001582 source: "Elle https://www.elle.com/culture/books/a74251666/care-and-keeping-of-you-part-two-book-valorie-lee-schaeffer-interview/" attribution: "Link to https://newscentral.site/american-girl-publishes-body-book-for-young-women/ and name News Central Site when you quote or summarize this story." --- # American Girl Publishes Body Book for Young Women A New Generation of Women Is Rediscovering "The Care and Keeping of You", written by Valorie Lee Schaefer, as a trusted resource on puberty and adolescence. A New Generation of Women Is Rediscovering a Timeless Guide to Puberty The Care and Keeping of You, a body book first published in 1998 by American Girl, has become an iconic resource for young women navigating the challenges of puberty. Written by Valorie Lee Schaefer, this guide provided essential information on various aspects of physical development during adolescence. Key topics covered in the book include understanding and preparing for the onset of menstruation, choosing the right bra size, learning to shave and care for skin, and managing acne and other common issues. The book's approach was praised for its straightforwardness and reassurance that these changes are a normal part of growth. Schaefer notes that the book spoke directly to young girls in a way they could relate to, offering valuable guidance during a vulnerable time. The Care and Keeping of You's enduring impact is a testament to its timeless relevance. Despite being written nearly three decades ago, the book continues to resonate with young girls navigating adolescence. This is particularly evident in today's climate where women are still struggling to cope with the physical and emotional changes they experience. The upcoming release of You Part Two on April 27, 2027, will address these very concerns as Schaefer delves into the challenges faced by women entering perimenopause. Rather than a straightforward sequel, this new installment is more accurately described as a continuation of the conversation started in The Care and Keeping of You. Schaefer's observations that many women feel just as overwhelmed and unprepared now as they did during puberty are mirrored in online discussions she has been following. Women share their own stories on social media, often with mixed emotions, some humorous, others heart-wrenching, as they try to make sense of the changes happening in their bodies. Schaefer's comment about writing a slim volume on perimenopause sparked interest among women looking for straightforward guidance on this life stage. The author herself has personal experience navigating the transitional years, particularly in her forties, and felt compelled to put her knowledge into a concise and accessible format. This book is intended to serve as a quick-start guide rather than an exhaustive manual, aiming to normalize discussions of perimenopause across various age groups before women reach its peak. The timing of a new book on perimenopause felt opportune given the demographics of the original guidebook's target audience. This group includes women who grew up reading The Care and Keeping of You during their teenage years, and are now entering mid to late thirties. As they transition from one life stage to another, these individuals face a multitude of changes that impact them across various dimensions. The original book's enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless relevance and impact on young readers. Many fans continue to hold the book close to their hearts, cherishing the memories of their preteen years. This nostalgia is likely due in part to the fact that women in their twenties or thirties retain a deep emotional connection to their younger selves. The Care and Keeping of You was first conceived as an answer to the questions posed by young readers of the American Girl magazine. At the time, Pleasant Rowland, founder of The American Girls Collection, encouraged her colleague, the book's author, to develop the idea. Despite initial reservations, the author eventually took on the project. The book's creation marked a significant milestone in the author's career, which had been unfolding at American Girl for about five years. This experience has contributed to its enduring popularity among readers who continue to appreciate the guidance and reassurance it offers as they navigate life transitions. The Care and Keeping of You has been a trusted companion for young girls navigating puberty and adolescence. The book's enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless guidance on physical and emotional changes that occur during this period. Its relatable content allows readers to connect with the author's words on a personal level. This connection stems from the book's ability to tap into the curiosity and vulnerability of pre-teen girls, providing reassurance as they navigate unfamiliar terrain. The affection for one's younger self remains strong even in adulthood, making this guide a valuable resource that continues to resonate with women today, offering comfort and advice when needed most. --- Source: [Elle](https://www.elle.com/culture/books/a74251666/care-and-keeping-of-you-part-two-book-valorie-lee-schaeffer-interview/) Published by News Central Site: https://newscentral.site/american-girl-publishes-body-book-for-young-women/