Mar 22 • 23:00 UTC 🇯🇵 Japan Asahi Shimbun (JP)

To be happy: A book about sex and the body for elementary and junior high school students to read as manga

A series of books designed for elementary and junior high school students to learn about sex and their bodies through manga has been published in Japan.

In Japan, there is a growing trend of publishing books that educate elementary and junior high school students about sex and their bodies through manga. These books aim to provide children with accessible knowledge and understanding of sexual issues, allowing them to learn independently. Notably, a book titled 'Learning About Sexual Violence for Teens' was released in March, focusing on concepts such as what constitutes sexual violence and the reasons behind such actions, all presented in an engaging comic format. Another recent publication, 'Children's Crime Prevention Sex Education,' released in October 2025, is targeted at younger audiences, featuring relatable characters that guide children through discussions about personal safety and understanding their bodies.

The article highlights multiple publications, detailing the intentions of the editors and authors behind these educational resources. One noteworthy book, 'What Happens to My Body: Anything Goes Girls Talk!' released in July 2025, follows the format of an essay compilation originally published in Korea that addresses the sexual concerns and interests experienced by teenage girls, enriched with illustrations to resonate with its target audience of upper elementary to junior high school students.

Overall, the emergence of these titles in Japan reflects a critical shift towards comprehensive sexual education that prioritizes the voices and understanding of children, encouraging them to engage in discussions regarding their bodies, rights, and relationships. The use of manga as an educational tool not only makes the subject matter more approachable but also empowers young readers to explore these important topics in a safe and supportive manner.

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