Teenage Survival Manual [Paperback]

H. Samm Coombs (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: September 5, 1999

This is a fully revised edition of a book that has helped a generation of teenagers take charge of their lives, solve problems, overcome those 'Nothing-To-Live-For Teenage Blues," understand why parents act that way and set out confidently on the road to maturity and lifelong inner well-being. This New Millennium Edition places added emphasis on sexual health and orientation, violence, suicide, addiction, multiculturalism, ecological issues, the search for self-identity, alienation and rebellion. 125,000 copies in print plus two foreign translations of previous editions.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 7 Up-- This new edition includes material on several relevant topics not found in earlier editions, most notably AIDS, suicide, stress, and the future . The overall tone is, "don't worry, be happy." It is somewhat uneven in that it combines much thought-provoking information along with trite cliches. A chapter advising a detached view of life , seeing it as a game , is juxtaposed with a chapter on commitment and devoting oneself completely to personal beliefs and talents. The occasional use of mild profanity seems contrived and inappropriate as do such condescending expressions such as, "It is tr es tricky." If the book does not cover any particularly new ground or offer profound insights, it does contain good solid advice in a readable format. Much of the material would be useful for group discussion or as supplemental material for high-school psychology classes. This is aimed at middle-class teens who, for the most part, will already know what the book advises, but it's still a good solid addition to libraries with large YA collections. Where previous editions have been popular, there is enough new material in this one to warrant its purchase. --Trish Ebbatson, Delaware County District Library, OH
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

Review

For the teenager in your home, a lot of solid, understanding advice. -- The Book Reader

I was skeptical ... thought it would be loose and compromising but was pleasantly, gratefully surprised. It's an important book -- clear, passionate. -- New Directions, Sikh Youth Federation of Canada

The book could be (and has been) used in Christian youth groups, drug rehabilitation programs, juvenile detention centers and public schools. -- Kliatt Young Adult Book Guide

This is one of the only books of its genre that affords teens the respect that they can regard serious subjects seriously. It does not mince words and there is no 'mall talk.' It should be the text for a required course in life offered to junior and senior high school subjects. -- Napra Review

Unlike others, the book is written for adolescents; parents will learn a lot from the advice, too. -- Midwest Book Review

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 280 pages
• Publisher: Halo Books; 5 edition (September 5, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1879904187
• ISBN-13: 978-1879904187
• Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.5 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (5 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,509,858 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars To the point, July 2, 2001

By 

Karen Goodman (Cedar Park, TX) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Teenage Survival Manual (Paperback)

As a parent I appreciated the Reality I and II labels given. The writer conveys his message in not only a teeage friendly manner, but effective for this adult reader. He doesn't become preachy but his stance is well put.

I encourage anyone who struggles with "life" to sit down with this book. It has already helped my relationship with my 18 year old.

As a teacher of preteens I am appreciative of the insight Coombs gives.

4.0 out of 5 stars practical, timely advice, January 11, 2007

By 

Deborah Catacosinos (Brookville ny United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Teenage Survival Manual: How to Reach 20 in One Piece (Paperback)

There are some things my 13 year old daughter is uncomfortable with discussing.... this helps break the ice and gives she and I, lots of food for thought

5.0 out of 5 stars How to understand teen highs, lows, and problems in life, September 17, 2001

By 

Midwest Book Review (Oregon, WI USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Teenage Survival Manual: How to Reach 20 in One Piece (Paperback)

This new edition of a classic tells teens how to understand their highs, lows, and problems in life, from parents to peers. The new and expanded 6th edition provides a how-to and why-to which provides a sympathetic overview of growing into an adult's body and world. Teenage Survival Manual includes sections for notes, which may not make this appropriate for library lending, but parents and teens alike will relish its wisdom.