Stepping Out

I disagree with the one star review from Farmers Wife. These books show a sharp contrast between a girl trying discover meaning in life and her interaction with kids who, though imperfect, have found true meaning in Christ. The point is she is not Christian and is on a journey. She is going to swear, try to be promiscuous and steal and think it is OK so long as she doesn't have consequences. That is her thinking. The point of the books is to teach children that there is a sinful world out there and you must be discerning. The problem with some Christians today is they think they need to shield their children from everything. Then the children go out on their own and don't know how to think independently. I choose to teach my children discernment and critical thinking in real life situations so they can fend for themselves. That is why these books are good. They tell about real modern situations for teenagers that include temptations (sex, drugs, gossip and the rest)...the same stuff I went through in High School! I want them to be ready to stand on their own and to know why being a Christian is best way to live!

Serenity is a rebellious high-schooler who somehow always finds herself in the midst of some kind of trouble. She's angry, has a horrible attitude, & is the antithesis of the teen most parents would want their child to befriend. That is, until a local church youth group, who's members attend the same high school as Serenity, decide to make her their "project". Finally!!! Some manga I feel comfortable giving my step-daughter, 13. She really got into the Yuyu Hakusho books, to which she was introduced by a friend. Neither my husband or myself ever really approved of the Yuyu Hakusho books, but she loved the artwork. When I saw these, I snatched them up. I read through the first one & greatly appreciated the ideas & morals presented. We gave step-daughter the first book in this series for Christmas, & she loves it! She bought the third book at Borders, but couldn't find the second one. (She's getting that for her birthday.) The one (possible) drawback is that these books read from front to back, like most western books, instead of back to front, like many Japanime books. I mention it simply b/c step-daughter drew it to my attention. If you've got a teen or pre-teen who loves manga but would prefer they actual read something of substance, this is the series for which you've been waiting. All the flashy artwork with none of the occultic overtones or mystical storylines. Most teens can relate to the stories presented, especially if they attend public school. Step-daughter is eagerly awaiting more releases.

An excellent second book in the "Serenity" series! Be aware that there are serious issues in this book that deal with addiction. This isn't just a fluffy comic, but one that deals with real issues and problems that need to be addressed with tweens/teens. Yes, the coloring is beautiful, yes there are some great jokes, but at the same time it does follow a storyline about drug and alcohol abuse. It's a serious topic that when written in this manner can be used as a discussion tool. Additionally, it stresses the concept of personal responsibility- --but with a few laughs along the way. Great book, it just keeps getting better!