Your Life, Your Way

August 15, 2020
This self-help workbook offers practical interventions to help teens navigate their life journeys. Some readers may initially be drawn in by the example of environmental activist Greta Thunberg, who struggled with depression but brought about change in herself, and, eventually, many other people, by tapping into her deepest values and acting on them. Straightforward truisms encourage teens to read on, and the text promises that it will help them understand how some adults end up unhappy and unfulfilled. Readers learn to identify three aspects of their inner selves--the discoverer, noticer, and adviser. Specific exercises encourage them to figure out how to use these skills for their own empowerment. Whatever the chapter's specific concern--anxiety, bullying, internet addiction, and more--the text reassures readers of their self-worth. Teens are encouraged to create unique personal choices when their first choice in problem-solving has failed, with the caveat that aggression is rarely a successful strategy. At appropriate moments, adult intervention is advised, and overall, the language used is accessible and nonpatronizing. One chapter mentions post-traumatic growth in the context of overcoming abuse and identity-based prejudice, but teens struggling with serious bias and oppression may find the examples in this book do not resonate. Whimsical ink drawings, pithy quotations, and frequent use of humor enhance this handbook for healthy living. Be the change! (resources, references) (Self-help. 13-18)

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November 1, 2020

Gr 6 Up-This self-help guide provides step-by-step coping strategies for teens who struggle with social-emotional challenges. Based on acceptance and commitment therapy practices, the text identifies specific actions that will produce desired changes. Part one introduces viewpoint switching skills, which examine life challenges from different perspectives. Part two describes how to use the skills to solve common issues that most teens face on a daily basis. Topics include dealing with anxiety and depression, building relationships, managing bullying, creating a healthy online presence, and increasing self-confidence. Rather than reading all of part two, Ciarrochi and Hayes suggest studying the chapters that are the most personally relevant. Librarians should note that this interactive text offers blank lines, checklists, and charts to write answers to guided questions and reflection sections. Each chapter begins with an inspirational quote from a pop culture figure and ends with a summary. Humorous pen illustrations are featured throughout, and the use of subtitles and bullets keeps the somewhat complex content organized. The conversational, encouraging tone will put readers at ease. However, the many steps involved in the different strategies can be overwhelming. Those who are committed to reading closely and journaling thoughtful responses will get the most out of the text. Younger middle schoolers would benefit from guidance from parents or counselors while reading the book. The authors provide a link to their website with additional resources and videos. VERDICT Recommended for middle and high school libraries that need to expand their self-help sections.-Maile Steimer, Jones M.S., Buford, GA

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