Review of Talking About Adolescence: Book 2

[Priya Murugesan]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Talking About Adolescence: Book 2" by Eichin Chang-Lim.]

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4 out of 5 stars

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Adolescence is a complex stage marked by various physical, emotional, intellectual, and social changes. If you are an adolescent or a parent of one, you can easily relate to the challenges in this period. Adolescents often experience conflicting emotions about transitioning from childhood to adulthood, which adds to the confusion. Their minds and bodies undergo rapid changes, and they must adapt quickly. Additionally, they need to navigate various challenges, such as avoiding bad habits, managing the negative effects of social media, coping with stress, and dealing with extreme mood swings. It would be valuable to have a resource that guides them through this tumultuous journey—helping them interact socially, tackle external challenges, and develop smarter decision-making skills. Dr. Eichin Chang-Lim has authored Talking About Adolescence: Book 2, a useful guide designed to meet this need. This book is the second in the "Talking About Adolescence" series but can be read independently. Although it is primarily aimed at teens and young adults, it also serves as a helpful resource for parents, guardians, therapists, and educators. In this book, the author offers guidance on managing health, understanding the brain and body, enhancing executive function skills, and setting and achieving goals. She further provides various tips and techniques to help adolescents reach their full potential and achieve success, happiness, and personal growth.

Each chapter of the book addresses a specific topic, beginning with a quote and thought-provoking questions and concluding with reflections on the chapter's content. The author effectively uses a list-like format reminiscent of PowerPoint style to present the information. The book starts with a fascinating and accurate overview of the stages of adolescence, highlighting the common changes experienced by both males and females during puberty. It includes numerous video links to further explain the bodily changes. Additionally, there are many links related to careers and education. The author also approaches sensitive topics, such as teen pregnancy and suicide, with care and consideration. She provides a thorough explanation of addiction and offers numerous tips and techniques for overcoming it, along with various helpline numbers. Many facts about drugs and their usage are shared, emphasizing the dangers associated with drug use. She also discusses executive function skills, which are beneficial not only for adolescents but also for adults. Furthermore, she explains the appropriate way to use social media. Additionally, she highlights the importance of mental health and shares effective strategies for maintaining it. She covers various topics, including eating disorders, stress coping mechanisms, the significance of meditation and yoga, and trauma management. The appendices include many links to videos that enhance our understanding of each chapter, and the references section provides a variety of website links for further exploration.

As my daughters are stepping into adolescence, I was immediately drawn to this book. I appreciated the author's conversational and slightly humorous writing style. The various quotes present in the book are truly inspirational. The scientific facts about the brain amazed me. I enjoyed reading chapter 15 about confidence, and I believe it can significantly boost the self-esteem of its readers. The author makes an interesting comparison between the Minecraft game and the development of our brains, which is understandable even to those unfamiliar with the game.

This book would make a wonderful gift for both adolescents and parents. Parents can use it to better understand their children and guide them along the right path, enhancing their relationship. Teachers can also benefit from this book by building a stronger connection with their students and providing them with proper guidance. Adolescents who read it can use the insights to help friends who may be struggling. Adults can also find these tips and techniques very valuable in improving their brain function and boosting their confidence.

One thing I noticed while reading the book is that it could be shortened to better hold the attention of readers. At times, it felt more like a textbook. A more concise version would likely have a greater impact on adolescent readers. I also felt some content was repetitive, and a clearer structure could have helped avoid this repetition. Additionally, I noticed a few editing errors. For these reasons, I had to deduct one star from my rating. So, I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.

Adolescents are the future pillars of our families and society, and transforming their lives can change the world. So, I believe the author has done an excellent job researching and writing this insightful book. It has helped me understand my kids better and guide them on their journey through adolescence. Likewise, I hope many adolescents and adults benefit from it. I found this book very informative, and I am looking forward to the next book in the series that deals with dating and relationship games.

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Talking About Adolescence: Book 2
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[Kelvin Omollo]

I couldn't agree more that that stage of transitioning needs resourceful guidance like this book. Many who never had such kind of guidance wish they had, but we can still use the book to guide those in adolescence now. Wonderful review.

[Priya Murugesan]

I couldn't agree more that that stage of transitioning needs resourceful guidance like this book. Many who never had such kind of guidance wish they had, but we can still use the book to guide those in adolescence now. Wonderful review.

You are right! Thanks for your comments!

[Julie Basil]

It sounds like this book is a great resource for both parents of adolescents and adolescents as well, but that it would be better if the material had been condensed some. Thank you for your thorough and honest review!

[Priya Murugesan]

It sounds like this book is a great resource for both parents of adolescents and adolescents as well, but that it would be better if the material had been condensed some. Thank you for your thorough and honest review!

Thanks for your comments!

[Anu Anand]

Understanding adolescence, building confidence, and managing mental health are crucial for navigating this challenging phase of life. The book seems to offer practical guidance for teens, parents, and educators to address these topics effectively. Great review!

[Priya Murugesan]

Understanding adolescence, building confidence, and managing mental health are crucial for navigating this challenging phase of life. The book seems to offer practical guidance for teens, parents, and educators to address these topics effectively. Great review!

Thank you!

[Louis Donald]

I like how Talking About Adolescence: Book 2 seems to cover a lot of important topics, from managing health to dealing with social media, all in a way that feels accessible. As someone who enjoys learning about personal development and helpful life skills, I’m definitely curious to read this and see what tips it has to offer.

[Priya Murugesan]

I like how Talking About Adolescence: Book 2 seems to cover a lot of important topics, from managing health to dealing with social media, all in a way that feels accessible. As someone who enjoys learning about personal development and helpful life skills, I’m definitely curious to read this and see what tips it has to offer.

Thank you!

[Pearl Flourish]

“Talking About Adolescence: Book 2” by Dr. Eichin Chang-Lim offers a comprehensive guide for navigating the complexities of adolescence, addressing topics from physical changes to mental health. While its thoroughness is commendable, a more concise presentation could enhance engagement for younger readers.

[Seetha E]

Indeed. Parents, guardians, therapists, and educators may find this a useful tool for educating teenagers about health management, brain and body knowledge, and improving executive function skills. It will enable them to realize their full potential and attain success, happiness, and personal development. Even though my daughters recently became adults, I'm sure I can pick up some advice.

[Priya Murugesan]

“Talking About Adolescence: Book 2” by Dr. Eichin Chang-Lim offers a comprehensive guide for navigating the complexities of adolescence, addressing topics from physical changes to mental health. While its thoroughness is commendable, a more concise presentation could enhance engagement for younger readers.

Thanks for reading my review!

[Priya Murugesan]

Indeed. Parents, guardians, therapists, and educators may find this a useful tool for educating teenagers about health management, brain and body knowledge, and improving executive function skills. It will enable them to realize their full potential and attain success, happiness, and personal development. Even though my daughters recently became adults, I'm sure I can pick up some advice.

Hope you find it useful!