Retailers already know that tweens make up a powerful segment of the toy industry's consumers. Those looking to sell to this segment should remember that this group is at a point in life where they are changing very quickly, internally and externally, and they're likely looking for help to learn to handle these changes. Enter the tween-targeted self-help book. At a time when these girls are starting to read young women's magazines for tips on everything from style, health and of course, boys, it is important for retailers to recognize the opportunities for cashing in on this desire for information.

Middle School: How to Deal, by Sara Borden, Sarah Miller, Alex Stikeleather, Maria Valladares and Miriam Yelton.

This book tackles one of the most potentially daunting periods in a girl's life—the middle school years. It includes advice for the common occasions and issues that tend to come along with reaching that milestone. ($9.95)

Chronicle Books, San Francisco

Real Fitness: Games to Get Girls Going! by the editors of American Girl magazine.

Real Fitness, due to hit bookshelves this month, is intended for readers ages 8 and up. It details 101 fitness ideas to encourage girls to get active in fun ways in order to stay healthy. ($9.95)

American Girl, Middleton, Wis.