The Girls' Guide to Conquering Life

April 16, 2018
In a companion to The Manual to Manhood, this husband-and-wife writing team, who both work in the fields of youth leadership and coaching, offer basic advice for straight girls. The authors include how-to tips for developing 100 different skills related to dating, social relationships, work, fashion, recreation, and more. Most are utilitarian in nature, including how to make a bed, apply hair-styling product, use a drill, and scramble eggs. Within the more challenging arena of money management and employment, the authors describe how to apply for a job, manage a credit card, and ask for a promotion. The Cathermans also focus on the more nuanced topics of social engagement, including how to be a good listener, speak up for one’s self or for others, and balance time spent with friends and boyfriends. The chapter on dating is limited in focus, sticking to the assumption of a cisgender, heteronormative audience in sections on how to “Invite a Guy on a First Date” or “Meet a Guy’s Parents for the First Time.” Elsewhere, the Cathermans provide less generic suggestions for living fully, intelligently, and with purpose. Final art not seen by PW. Ages 14–17.