Do I Get My Allowance Before or After I'm Grounded?: Stop Fighting, Start Talking, and Get to Know Your Teen

"Van Petten, founder of the popular Web site RadicalParenting.com, offers parents a candid view of the contemporary teen's world in this eye-opening text. Van Petten uses actual stories about teens and their often anxious, angry, or befuddled parents to introduce each chapter. Pointing out that she is neither a parent nor a teen (nor a doctor, therapist, or counselor), the college-grad author has nevertheless earnestly investigated her subject and includes current research on teens as well as hundreds of 'real quotes, interviews, e-mails and advice from actual teens.' Van Petten explores a variety of timely subjects, including peer relationships, teen/parent communication, bullying, technology, and 'risky business' (smoking, drinking, sex, and more). Her outlook on technology and 'Internet savvy' is particularly incisive, emphasizing not only the hazards of 'time-suck' activities (i.e., Facebook, chatting on IM, and texting) but also the many social and academic benefits of the digital universe. Like a crafty spy, Van Petten comfortably segues from parent to teen perspective, and while noting that each adolescent is unique, she skillfully opens doors to the collective teen psyche. (Aug.)" Publishers Weekly Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.