The Teenage Guy's Survival Guide

July 1, 1999
Gr 9 Up-This is a book that makes every attempt to be young, hip, and of-the-moment, and largely succeeds. A cartoon character that provides a running, sardonic commentary on the text and intentionally lame humor both contribute to a playful tone likely to appeal to the intended audience. The information provided, on the other hand, is, for the most part, sound and clearly presented. There are discussions of such topics as building relationships, dealing with peer pressure, the effects of alcohol and other drugs, bullying, and, of course, sex. A list of slang terms for masturbation, brief instructions on how to masturbate, and the opinion that "Looking at the occasional porn magazine is natural and fine" are likely to prove unsettling in some quarters. Libraries that acquire this title should be prepared to deal with potential objections.-Richard Luzer, Fair Haven Union High School, VT

Copyright 1999 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.