WHO ARE YOU?

by Elizabeth McGough ‧ RELEASE DATE: Nov. 8, 1976

Sounding like a hip guidance counselor's pep talk, this is a barrage of regurgitated psychology, exhortation, inspirational quotes, and instant self-analysis. You may, for instance, identify with Jean, a ""perfect example"" of low self esteem, but McGough has little to offer beyond positive-thinking slogans--""You matter just because you exist. . .Don't dwell on misfortunes. . .Adapt."" Similarly, kids are urged to treat their parents according to the Golden Rule, stand up to peer pressure, and not stay with one clique all through high school. The real kicker here is a chapter of ""value identification strategies"" which shows how to test one's beliefs on a ""values grid,"" gives a fill-in-the-blanks form for ""your own obituary,"" and presents, for group discussion, a list of ten people, three of whom must be left behind ""when the earth is destroyed tomorrow."" The games, however tasteless, could no doubt be popular time-killers for junior-high-schoolers, but even adolescents might be skeptical of the platitudes, like that of the priest who counseled, ""Remember this: God made you, and God doesn't make junk."" It takes people to make junk.

Pub Date: Nov. 8, 1976

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Morrow

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Nov. 1, 1976

Categories: NONFICTION