It's OK to Say No! A PARENT/CHILD MANUAL FOR THE PROTECTION OF CHILDREN by Robin Lenett with Bob Crane; illustrated by Frank C. Smith (RGA: $3.95, paperback; 128 pp.) : A Very Touching Book by Jan Hindman; illustrated by Tom Novak; designed by Bob Foree (McClure-Hindman: $9.95, paperback; 56 pp.) : Close to Home by Oralee Wachter; illustrated by Jane Aaron (Scholastic: $12.95, hardcover; $5.95, paperback; 48 pp.)

All of the books under review are certainly admirable in the way they tend to confront authoritarianism and clarify the fear and anxiety with which children must live in our society. Yet, the very fact that such books are necessary is also a sad commentary about American society and our incapacity to create an environment in which children can explore their bodies and potential without fear of being kidnaped, molested or exploited. It is also questionable whether these books, which intend to enlighten children about sex and sexual abuse in such a direct manner, can attain their desired effect since children do not always respond as calculated to such texts and often prefer more symbolic stories when sensitive issues are treated. Yet, despite misgivings, these books can be used in school and family settings as effective antidotes to the mixed messages that confuse our children about sex and sexual abuse, for they are clear about how children's rights can and must be protected. Most of all, they can help young and adult readers alike recognize that there is no such thing as a hopeless or helpless situation when the danger of sexual abuse arises.