Teenage Survival Book

I got this book when I was 13 (in 1985) and now I'm buying it for another 13 year old. Sol Gordon presents the facts in an interesting and colorful way without preaching and without getting too serious. He includes fun and creative exercises in self-analysis and self-appreciation. Most of all, this book is a refreshing read compared to the kinds of scare tactics used to warn kids about sex and drugs today. He encourages kids to use their heads when making decisions that affect them. Although it looks a bit out of date (due to the artwork and slang) it is still right on. Good stuff.

Sol Gordon really knows what a human being needs to do not only to survive but also to blossom in the world. This is NOT one of those "You're OK; just say no to drugs" treacly teen books that parents want you to read. It confronts the fact that life isn't always nice and fun and happy and instead helps you work on developing your skills to be strong enough not only to survive whatever badness you're going through now, but also to make your life and relationships better. Gordon also doesn't pretend to have all the answers and a perfect life himself; he just seems to be really good at sorting out what is worth doing and what isn't. I think most people could benefit from reading this book even after they are teenagers. The only bad thing about this book is that it was originally written in the 70s so sometimes the language is a little silly (like when he talks about things being "a major bummer" and "head trips" and stuff like that), but the book overall is definitely worth it.