What Every Parent Needs to Know about Video Games: A Gamer Explores the Good, Bad, and Ugly of the Virtual World

Subtitled: A Gamer Explores the Good, Bad, and Ugly of the Virtual World This short (6 chapter, 115 page) book could be recommended by public and Christian schools, parishes and libraries to parents and grandparents who may not be among the predominately under-40 male group who play computer/video games. It alleviated some of MY concerns and educated me on others (have two young adult sons who play various games at our home with buddies.) The author qualifies himself as "a gamer," but appears to give an unbiased, realistic evaluation of the rating system (for choosing wisely) and controversy in the media on this topic and it's influences. The author defines and explains nine types (role-playing--RPG & MMO), sports, shooters, action-adventure, real-time strategy (RTS), platform, & God games) in easily comprehended terms and descriptions with illustrations. Throughout the book, the author cross-references himself and his resources (8 pages of footnotes.). For example, "Video games are this generation's rock 'n' roll; they're this generation's lifestyle interest. They're culturally relevant, but they're not really understood by their teachers, parents, congressmen. They're the new popular, cultural forum for this generation." quoted from founder/CEO, G4 Television. The author concludes that "parents, educators, and church leaders can embrace video games as a way of connecting with the younger generation; they can be fun, instructional and therapeutic (intellectually, emotionally, physically, and spiritually), not to mention helpful in the creation of deep friendships and family relationships." I can attest to the deep friendships one son has developed. I think this book could help me take a more active role in selecting gifts, rather than relying on my husband, and perhaps even being comfortable participating, rather than just listening. Armchair Interviews says: Good book to help parents and others understand this strong draw.