FAMILY

Biblical wisdom, humor, and straight talk combine to encourage girls to be the change they want to see in their families.

Minassian, founder of the popular website LifeLoveandGod.com, flips the focus for girls struggling to relate to their families. Rather than studying the problems, chapters present solutions. Discussions focus on issues such as sibling rivalry, a desire for increased freedom, and self-acceptance. Numbered tips will help readers put the theories into practice. Minassian’s personal stories give life to familiar admonitions to nurture humility, forgiveness, gratitude, and integrity. However, she also is careful to point out that not all families are created equal. While difficulty and strife are common within close interpersonal relationships, abuse and self-harm are never OK. She advises readers to seek professional help for tackling these darker issues. The overearnest big-sister tone might be off-putting to some, but the promise of more peace at home should entice even reluctant readers. While the emphasis is on Christian values, the no-nonsense instruction has a broader appeal. Quizzes and suggestions for related activities are included in every chapter, making this resource appropriate for both group and individual study.

Interactive and encouraging.