Dear Teenager: If You Only Knew...

The kindness and compassion that must fill the heart of author Peter Burwash overflow in this little volume focusing on teenagers. His concern for the plight of today's teens is obvious, and his offering of solutions and guidelines for them to live by is an act of generosity that goes above and beyond even what most parents are able to offer their children these days. Burwash stresses developing good character, having respect for others as well as yourself, and finding real happiness through service to others, among many other important topics. But he does so in a very easy-going, conversational manner so that it never becomes dry or preachy. Chapters are short---and the whole book is only 122 pages in 5 by 7 format---so it's easy to take it in small bites, easy for some to read in one sitting, easy to carry along on a trip. Teenagers will appreciate Burwash's honesty and his appreciation for what they are up against. His respect for them is also obvious, as he thanks them at the end for what he has learned from them. As the subtitle, "If You Only Knew" suggests, he seems to be just taking this opportunity to share his own experiences and realizations with teens so that they can avoid some of the pitfalls he fell into as a youth. As parents we all try to do that, but sometimes it goes down better when heard from someone else! I have given this book as a gift to relatives and friends---both teens and parents of teens, boyscout leaders, youth group leaders, etc.---and they tell me they have found it extremely helpful. A resounding THANK YOU to Peter Burwash for giving us this wonderful gift!