The Worst Case Scenario Survival Handbook

My 10-year old son LOVES this book. He's a bit of a reluctant reader, but picked this one up as soon as it was delivered and never stopped reading. Can't wait until there's a "version 2."

Youth and embarrassing moments often hold hands. It's easy to forget how things that would drive us to shut in-ism as adults were regular occurrences in our younger days. Braces, acne, and general awkwardness all conspired to make life a walk down misery lane. "Worst-Case Scenario: Junior Edition" tackles these problems in its mission to tack up a "No PDA" sign aimed directly at that cozy couple: embarrassment and being a kid. "Junior Edition" follows the familiar "Worst-Case" format. Step-by-step instructions for solving problems are presented in categories. These groupings apply to various areas of life - including home, school, and outdoors. The topics are ones that youngsters are faced with every day: handling bullies, making friends, and speaking in front of the class. Just like other editions in this series, many of the suggestions are tongue in cheek. I'm not sure putting a sign over your split pants that reads "If you can read this, you're standing too close" would really be all that helpful, but that's kind of the point. Some helpful advice thrown in with some ridiculousness ensures that kids will keep reading. Illustrations lend clarity and humor to the mix. Would my years as a young buck have been smoother had I a copy of "Worst Case Scenario: Junior Edition" on my shelf? Most likely wouldn't have made much of a difference (I can show you my retainer if you like). Not a must-have, but a fun take on the problems that come with being a kid.

The Junior Edition focuses its advice for youngsters on the survival skills needed at home, school, socially and outdoors. Looking through the book as an adult, you feel the empathy Borgenicht and Epstein have for kids making their way through the minefield that is childhood. There are the practical suggestions that are parent pleasing, "How to Make your Room Shipshape" and "How to Survive Outdoor Chores." Other chapters satisfy the gross-out factor, "How to Survive Poo on your Shoe" and "How to Survive Farting in Public." Other sections offer support with situations that truly concern kids, such as bullies, having to eat lunch alone, and being the new kid. Tips for surviving parent anger are dished out with humor, "Telltale Signs you've got an annoyed adult on your hands Steam is pouring out of his nose or ears. Her arms are crossed and her foot is tapping but there's no music playing in the background... She keeps pounding the kitchen table with her shoe..." The book design by Lynne Yeamans is easy on young eyes with reader friendly typeface and lots of white space. Chuck Gonzales's illustrations are comical yet accurate. This is a book that kids will pick up and read. They will recognize the situations outlined in the book which are presented with humor and sympathy.