SUCCESS EXPRESS FOR TEENS

A crash course on how teens can live well and find a purpose, from educator Leslie.

The teen years are a time of confusion, depression, self-pity and vulnerability, but they needn’t be so tough, writes Leslie. In this self-help primer, he advises teens on recognizing strengths and areas of interest, setting goals, achieving a measure of independence and acting responsibly. This will require teens to take risks and act spontaneously, governed by an embracing sincerity to “dream big. Aim high. Challenge yourself. But ground your dream in reality.” Leslie’s breezy, up-tempo style may not cut through the thickest areas of teen cynicism–and these activities probably won’t “change your life”–but he keeps his advice short and quick, offering 50 action-oriented activities, guided by a sure-handed interactive quality. The activities range from the biggest questions teens face–how do they feel about their memories; what are their dreams; what does it mean to really listen; how do you deal with other people’s emotional baggage–to lighter projects like organizing your room; to whimsical, airy acts of observation: What does a Looney Tune character have to teach about determination, creativity and humor? For each activity, the author propels the teen forward by answering immediate questions that arise: How do you initiate the activity; what is expected from it; what is the timeframe? Leslie offers clues, examples and advice, though he is clear never to direct or provide orders.

A potentially affirming program, if a bit light in the delivery.