'American Girl' has some advice

American Girl has just released seven new titles as part of its "Advice & Activity" book line. The company is well-known for its American Girl dolls and wholesome books for young girls.

Here's a look at three of the recently released titles:

"A SMART GIRL'S GUIDE TO HER PARENTS' DIVORCE," by Nancy Holyoke, American Girl Publishing, 120 pages, $9.95 (nf)

Although written specifically for girls, this is a thoughtful book that could be read by any young person whose parents have divorced. The chapters are short and conversational and include advice on how to manage issues such as feelings of anger, or dealing with stepparents.

At the end of the book is a "Bill of Rights" that details all the things a girl should be guaranteed when her parents divorce, including the right to feel safe and to get answers to her questions. The book is geared for girls age 8 and older.

"IS THIS NORMAL? GIRLS' QUESTIONS ANSWERED BY THE EDITORS OF THE CARE & KEEPING OF YOU," edited by Erin Falligant and Michelle Watkins, American Girl Publishing, 110 pages, $8.95 (nf)

This is a more subdued, yet still informative companion book to the best-selling American Girl title, "The Care & Keeping of You."

The editors answer a variety of questions from girls about issues such as body image, nutrition, nail biting and some of the changes of puberty. Their responses are positive and encouraging and address many of the misconceptions girls have about their looks and growing bodies.

"PSST … SECRET INSTRUCTIONS EVERY GIRL SHOULD KNOW," by Rick Walton and Cheri Earl, American Girl Publishing, $9.95 (nf)

Want to learn know to make your own soda pop? What about how to get paid to baby-sit? This book has the answers. There are a total of 90 fun, informative and even light-hearted "secrets" in this book that young girls should love to know.

For instance, here's the trick for making your own soda pop: Combine fruit juice with sparkling water. It's both fizzy and fun!

e-mail: nwarburton@desnews.com