The Wonder of Girls: Understanding the Hidden Nature of Our Daughters

Michael Gurian, whose national bestseller "The Wonder of Boys" presented a radical and enlightening view of parenting sons, now offers a groundbreaking approach to raising daughters.

In "The Wonder of Girls, " Gurian, himself the father of two girls, provides crucial information for fully understanding the basic nature of girls: up-to-date scientific research on female biology, hormones, and brain development and how they shape girls' interests, behavior, and relationships.

He also offers insight into a culture mired in competition between traditionalism and feminism and a new vision that provides for the equal status of girls and women yet acknowledges their nature as complex and distinct from men. He explains what is "normal" for girls each year from birth to age 20; what developmental needs girls face in each stage; how to communicate effectively with girls; and how to cope with developmental crises such as early sexuality, eating disorders, parental divorce, and more.

With personal insights, practical tips, real-life anecdotes, and accessible science, The Wonder of Girls creates a new parenting paradigm. Key elements include:

a nature-based approach to why girls are the way they are

the connection between the need for profound attachment and the physical and brain development of girls

support for a girl's inherent need for intimacy

tools to protect girls' self-esteem and emotional life

a new approach to girls' character development and rites of passage.

With this scientifically based developmental map of girlhood, Gurian equips parents with a comprehensive guide for raising daughters. Challenging our culture to examine and embrace a crucial piece of the puzzle missing thus far, "The Wonder of Girls" elevates the dialogue on parenthood.

Michael Gurian is a therapist, educator, and bestselling author. His work has been featured in The New York Times, USA Today, and Time, and on Today, CNN, and National Public Radio. He is the co-founder of the Michael Gurian Institute, which administers training in child development and education. He lives with his wife, Gail, and two daughters in Spokane, Washington.