Mel Hammond: Author of American Girl book accused of encouraging use of puberty ... trends now
The author of a book that teaches pre-teen girls to use puberty blockers without their parents knowledge described her work as helping 'kids to learn to love themselves.'
The controversial book, A Smart Girl's Guide: Body Image, was penned by Wisconsin-based writer Mel Hammond, who is a staffed employee of the self-help guide's publisher, American Girl Dolls.
The book contains advice about how to change gender - without their parents' blessing and attempts to teach pre-teen girls 'to live comfortably in their own skin.'
A passage in the book - marketed to girls aged between three and 12 advises: 'If you haven't gone through puberty yet, the doctor might offer medicine to delay your body's changes, giving you more time to think about your gender identity.'
It also provides a list of resources for organizations the children can turn to 'if you don't have an adult you trust'.
Mel Hammond, pictured here promoting her previous work, is the author of the controversial new book published by the American Girl Doll brand, Body Image
Prior to releasing this book, her previous work for American Girl was an activist book Love the Earth. That work was described as being 'for girls who care about the earth to help them understand climate change, speak up for solutions, and live an earth-friendly life.'
According to her LinkedIn page, Hammond has worked for American Girl since 2019. During that time, she has written five advice and activity books for children for the brand including Pets and Love the Earth.
Hammond, a Kansas State University graduate, also pens articles for the American Girl website. Since 2017, Hammond has been a volunteer with the Big Brothers and Big Sisters of America.
Her controversial opus was released on November 1. Hammond wrote of the book on Instagram saying: 'This book helps kids learn to love themselves, appreciate the amazing things their bodies can do, and treat all types of bodies with respect.'
She went on: 'It’s a book I would’ve loved to read as a kid!'
According to her LinkedIn page, Hammond has worked for American Girl since 2019. During that time, she has written five advice and activity books for children for the brand including Pets and Love the Earth
Hammond joked that the book was released while she was getting married to HIV research scientist Edward Evans, pictured here. On her Instagram profile, Hammond lists her favorite color as the rainbow pride symbol
The book's publication was first announced in February this year. Mattel did not promote the book on its official Instagram page
Hammond joked that the book was released while she was getting married to HIV research scientist Edward Evans. On her Instagram profile, Hammond lists her favorite color as the rainbow pride symbol.
While over on her official website, Hammond writes: 'My favorite things are trees, rainbows, and dairy-free ice cream.'
The writer describes working for American Girl as 'pretty much the best job in the world.'
She adds: 'Before working here, I had
