Calling the Moon: 16 Period Stories from BIPOC Authors

Praise

Salazar and Mendez say in an editors’ note, they wanted to address the lack of diversity in literature on this topic as well as undo negative assumptions. They succeeded.
—The New York Times Book Review

In this uplifting anthology of stories and poems about menstruation, 16 BIPOC writers, including Saadia Faruqi, Nikki Grimes, Erin Entrada Kelly, Christina Soontornvat, and the volume’s editors, share tales that are by turns warm, funny, and empowering. . . . Honest and tender, these works explore themes of grief, friendship, and belonging against varied backdrops and intersectional identities. . . a love letter to all who menstruate, one that’s both welcoming and inclusive—particularly to those experiencing their first period.
—Publishers Weekly (starred review)

Sixteen short stories and poems from well-known and award-winning authors explore how young people experience and celebrate their periods. . . . a memorable anthology featuring uniformly strong entries from broadly diverse voices that delve into the subject matter in ways ideally suited to the target audience. A powerful, vibrant, and empowering celebration of an important milestone.
—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

This collection of short stories and poems from talented middle grade authors reassures readers that they are not alone, while conveying that every person’s experience may differ. . . this coming-of-age experience is presented as universal and relatable. . . . much-needed.
—School Library Connection (starred review)

This collection of 16 stories by celebrated BIPOC middle-grade authors captures the onset of menses from culturally diverse perspectives. . . Readers will find common threads of honesty, vulnerability, and often humor. . . Through the uplifting messages of self-discovery and affirmations of identity, readers are encouraged to think beyond the social stigma attached to menstruation and are offered assurance and connection with others going through similar experiences. An essential, compelling, and unique addition addressing a universal topic from a wide range of perspectives.
—Booklist (starred review)

The stories have broad appeal and are unified by a common thread of growing up. Issues related to race and gender, immigration status, and language diversity are set alongside culturally rich narratives about a singular and pivotal life event, giving young people an opportunity to feel seen, and less alone.
—The Horn Book

Includes perspectives from lots of different cultures.
—The New York Times for Kids

If you’re watching Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret this summer, this anthology with 16 short stories about menstruation is a perfect companion. Written by authors who are Black, Indigenous, and/or people of color, Calling the Moon showcases coming-of-age stories that range from hilarious to heartrending, helping readers understand they’re not alone in the period wilderness.
—We Are Teachers

Wonderful collection of stories celebrating and sharing fears, apprehensions, and the many emotions that come with getting your period. Wide range of identities (including nonbinary), cultures, reactions, and messages. A powerful book and a necessary resource.
—Teen Librarian Toolbox