Read, Talk, Respect: 5 Books to Teach Consent with Confidence
At Genius Juniors Bookshop, we believe that teaching children about consent is one of the most powerful things we can do to support their emotional wellbeing and confidence. Whether it’s learning to say “no,” understanding personal space, or navigating puberty, consent is a life skill, and it’s never too early to start.
Books make these conversations easier. They open the door to age-appropriate discussions about boundaries, body autonomy, and respect.
Here are five brilliant titles available now at Genius Juniors.
Don't Hug Doug (He Doesn't Like It) by Carrie Finison, illustrated by Daniel Wiseman
Age guide: 3–6 years
Doug doesn’t like hugs—and that’s perfectly okay! This joyful, rhyming picture book teaches young children that everyone has different boundaries, and it’s always important to ask first. A playful and gentle introduction to consent for little ones.
https://geniusjuniors.ie/products/dont-hug-doug-he-doesnt-like-it?_pos=1&_sid=e46e6eb0c&_ss=r
Wonderful Me by Lisa Thompson, illustrated by Paula Bowles
Age guide: 4–7 years
A heartwarming picture book that encourages children to embrace who they are, speak up for themselves, and understand that their choices matter. A lovely tool to help children understand body autonomy and build self-esteem from an early age.
https://geniusjuniors.ie/products/wonderful-me?_pos=1&_psq=wonderful+me&_ss=e&_v=1.0
Growing Up: An Inclusive Guide to Puberty and Your Changing Body! Dr. Niharika Verma
Age guide: 5-9 years
This inclusive, body-positive guide to puberty supports tweens through emotional and physical changes, while reinforcing consent, body respect, and healthy boundaries. Clear, accessible, and supportive for all genders and identities.
https://geniusjuniors.ie/products/growing-up-an-inclusive-guide-to-puberty-and-your-changing-body?_pos=1&_sid=6956e3530&_ss=r
Respect: Consent, Boundaries and Being in Charge of YOU by Rachel Brian
Age guide: 6–10 years
With its comic-style illustrations and fun tone, Respect is an engaging guide to what consent looks like in everyday life. From setting boundaries to recognising when others are uncomfortable, this book empowers children with practical, confidence-building messages.
https://geniusjuniors.ie/products/respect-consent-boundaries-and-being-in-charge-of-you?_pos=1&_psq=respect&_ss=e&_v=1.0
Can We Talk About Consent? by Justin Hancock, illustrated by Fuchsia MacAree
Age guide: 12+years
A thoughtful, comprehensive guide for tweens and teens that explores consent in all areas of life—relationships, friendships, online behaviour, and more. Empowering and inclusive, it’s ideal for building deeper understanding and communication skills.
https://geniusjuniors.ie/products/can-we-talk-about-consent?_pos=1&_sid=c687c7ee8&_ss=r
Why These Books Matter
Learning about consent isn’t just about safety, it’s about respect, confidence, and empathy. These books help children understand themselves and others better, giving them the language and tools they need as they grow.
📌 Please note: Age recommendations are provided by the publisher and are intended as a general guide. You know your child best, feel free to read based on their individual level of understanding and emotional readiness.