Raising a Teenager

December 1, 1999
This guide encourages a broad and gentle approach to parenting teens. The book covers little new ground as a practical parenting tool, instead parroting expertise found in the Q&A sections of books like John Rosemond's Teen Proofing (LJ 11/15/98). The writing is often dramatic (teens are on a constant "search for truth") and contradictory (computer games are alternately "life negating" and "lifelines"); such issues like sexuality, drugs, and work are covered superficially. The Eliums (Raising a Family: Living on Planet Parenthood, LJ 5/15/97) also encourage consideration of alternative parenting techniques; few techniques are clearly explored, however. For example, frequent mention of the Waldorf method does not include consideration of its root belief system, theosophy. Interested parents will be compelled to find more detail elsewhere. Readers interested in developing a theoretical parenting philosophy may find useful information, but few will learn helpful, practical suggestions for day-to-day parenting. For larger public libraries with strong parenting collections only.--Douglas C. Lord, Hartford P.L., CT

Copyright 1999 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.