Blog Archives
Life Skills for Teens Toolkit: Master A Growth Mindset, Emotions, Financial Savviness, Cybersmarts & More, Even Though It Seems Like Everyone Else Has It Figured Out
Life Skills for Teens Toolkit: Master A Growth Mindset, Emotions, Financial Savviness, Cybersmarts & More, Even Though It Seems Like Everyone Else Has It Figured Out, by Maegen Lara, is a valuable guide for teens and young adults looking to navigate the complexities of life with confidence. The book covers a wide range of topics, from emotional intelligence and cultivating a growth mindset to mastering financial responsibility and staying safe online. It provides practical advice to help young people feel more in control of their lives during a time when everything can feel overwhelming.
One of the standout aspects of this book is its focus on emotional and psychological development. As someone with a background in psychology, I particularly appreciated how Lara incorporates insights from renowned psychologists like Angela Duckworth. The book goes beyond popular concepts like the growth mindset, delving into lesser-known yet equally important topics such as neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form new pathways as we learn, is a fascinating subject, and Lara does an excellent job of making it accessible. It’s a powerful reminder that we can always improve and learn new skills, which is often overlooked in discussions about personal growth. Lara’s emphasis on the “power of yet” resonated with me deeply. This concept encourages readers to reframe their mindset—not as someone who can’t do something, but as someone who can’t do it yet. This simple shift in thinking can be incredibly motivating, turning challenges into opportunities for growth rather than roadblocks. It’s a brilliant way to help young people break free from self-limiting beliefs and push past their comfort zones.
Life Skills for Teens Toolkit is a must-read for any teen or young adult feeling uncertain about stepping into the adult world. Lara offers practical, down-to-earth advice on building the right mindset and skills for personal and emotional success. Her message that no one has it all figured out is reassuring, and the tools she provides empower readers to face life’s challenges with confidence. I highly recommend this book to anyone feeling lost or in need of guidance as they navigate adulthood.
Pages: 181 | ASIN : B0DHBNLB2Z
Little Green Man
In Little Green Man, author Shanti Hershensen transports readers to the small, conventional town of Mount Pifork, Colorado, where seventeen-year-old Birdie Buckley feels stifled by the town’s rigid norms. Birdie craves adventure, but in a place where individuality is unwelcome, finding it seems impossible. Yet, her curiosity is piqued when she begins to suspect something strange—perhaps even extraterrestrial—lurking in her town. With the help of Sol, the intriguing new arrival at her high school, Birdie embarks on a quest to uncover the mysteries surrounding a recently appeared observatory on the town’s outskirts. What they discover changes everything, leaving Birdie questioning whether normalcy might be preferable after all.
Drawing comparisons to the eerie intrigue of shows like The X-Files, Hershensen crafts a teen-centered narrative that explores the timeless theme of searching for one’s place in the world. Though the idea of seeking proof of alien life isn’t new, the novel taps into this well-worn concept with a fresh twist, intertwining it with the relatable struggles of adolescence. Birdie’s journey is driven not just by her search for extraterrestrial life, but by her deeper, more personal quest to belong. In her high school, she feels torn between wanting to fit in with her peers and resenting them for their dull conformity. This internal conflict fuels her determination to uncover something extraordinary. Perhaps, if she doesn’t belong on Earth, her destiny lies among beings as alien as she sometimes feels herself to be. Grounding the story is Birdie’s evolving relationship with Sol. Their bond provides a heartwarming reminder that connection can be found in the most unexpected places. As Birdie searches for the unusual and mysterious, her life becomes increasingly complex, even without the discovery of any actual “little green men.” The turbulence of adolescence, with its inherent challenges, mirrors the very strangeness she longs for. Yet, Birdie remains blind to the fact that growing up is an adventure all on its own, full of twists and uncertainties she never anticipated.
Little Green Man offers a clever and engaging literary escape driven by a spirited protagonist and a plot full of surprises. Hershensen’s story is not just about extraterrestrial mysteries but about the equally baffling journey of self-discovery in the midst of teenage life. With its suspenseful twists and thoughtful exploration of identity, this book will keep readers hooked and thinking long after the final page.
Pages: 436 | ASIN : B0CRTKLFGK
Forever Boy
Michael J. Bowler’s Forever Boy offers a captivating blend of mystery and the ordinary in this coming-of-age novel, centered on Isaac, an outsider in ninth grade, and his encounter with the enigmatic Drágan. From the moment Drágan steps into Isaac’s school, it’s clear he’s no typical student. His appearance is striking, as though plucked from a high-end fashion catalog, and his demeanor hints at wisdom far beyond his years. He moves through life with an independence that is both alluring and unnerving, a mix that makes him as intriguing as he is unsettling. As Drágan reveals his many layers, one can’t help but wonder: is he a hidden blessing, or a lurking curse?
Bowler masterfully balances the supernatural elements with the mundane realities of high school life, crafting a narrative that’s both engaging and easy to follow. The language is straightforward, making the novel accessible to a wide readership. However, while its simplicity widens its appeal, it may not fully resonate with a younger teenage audience who might crave more age-specific dialogue. Still, this clarity is a strength, allowing the story’s deeper themes to shine through. The chapter titles are a clever touch, offering hints about what’s to come and keeping the pacing smooth, helping readers anticipate the twists and turns ahead. At its core, Forever Boy explores familiar coming-of-age themes—school cliques, bullying, friendship, and identity—but with an added layer of complexity. Bowler doesn’t shy away from tackling heavier subjects like sexual assault, addressing them with sensitivity and purpose. This thoughtful approach gives the story emotional depth, elevating it beyond a typical high school narrative.
The slow-burn romance, a refreshing change from more fast-paced teen love stories, adds a realistic touch, grounding the supernatural elements with a sense of authenticity. Bowler has a gift for weaving together a diverse cast, ensuring that each character contributes meaningfully to the plot. While Drágan stands out as the focal point, the supporting characters are equally well-developed, adding richness to the narrative. Character growth is pivotal in a coming-of-age story, and Forever Boy excels in this area. Each transformation feels genuine and relatable, echoing the significant personal changes that define adolescence. Readers will likely find reflections of themselves in these characters, making their journeys all the more impactful.
Forever Boy is a combination of accessible language, emotional depth, and well-rounded characters, making it a standout read. The novel thoughtfully navigates the complexities of teenage life, weaving in themes of growth, friendship, and self-discovery with care. Its universal themes will resonate with a broad audience. For those who enjoy character-driven stories with a dash of mystery and emotional resonance, Forever Boy is a book worth exploring.
Pages: 294 | ASIN : B0DDFB1Z2R
Kick-Starting Adulthood
Actionable Life Skills for Young Adults provides readers with everything they need to tackle the challenging transition to adulthood. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I was raised by a single mother who didn’t have the time and resources to teach me the necessary life skills for a smooth transition into adulthood. So when I left home and found myself on a university campus in a foreign city, the shock was overwhelming. I practically cried every day because I found it emotionally demanding. I went from the comfort of a small town where everyone knew each other to a big city where nobody seemed to care about others. In addition to not knowing anyone and experiencing a cultural shock, I didn’t even know how to cook a meal, and resources were limited, so I couldn’t afford ready-made meals either. I struggled for many years to find my footing. I eventually succeeded, but I believe that if I had been prepared in advance, it would have been less challenging.
Knowing that there are many young people in this situation, and being a mother to a preteen, I wanted to write this book to do with my daughter what my wonderful mother couldn’t do with me. I aim to share this knowledge and my experiences hoping it can help other teens better manage this transition, which is supposed to be exciting rather than intimidating.
In Actionable Life Skills for Young Adults, you cover a wide variety of topics. What type of research was required for this book?
In the process of creating Actionable Life Skills for Young Adults, the research involved a combination of personal experiences and exploration of new responsibilities that young adults need to assume from the age of 18, such as the obligation to file income tax returns. The topics were also shaped by the questions commonly raised by young adults on social media and the concerns that adults, including parents, guardians, teachers, educators, and school counselors, have—such as what life skills their teens or young individuals in their school or community should learn to succeed in life.
Given the extensive range of topics to cover and the limitations on space within the book, the focus was on fundamental knowledge. As a result, the selected topics aimed at addressing the essential skills required to “kick-start” the exciting adventure of adulthood while encouraging readers to further investigate additional skills that align with their specific needs and goals, using the 5WH^2 method. This way, readers will not be limited by the book’s content since they are invited to explore new horizons with the assistance of trusted adults.
What is one thing you wish you had been told when you were making the jump from a teenager into an independent adult?
Learning to live within my means and make the most of the available resources.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
Puberty for girls. Hopefully, the book will be ready for Christmas.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Are you a parent or guardian struggling to guide your teen through the complexities of adolescence?
Are you a teen or young adult nervous about the life skills you should learn to prepare for independence?
➡️ If the former, help your teen with this practical guide crafted to foster communication between teens and trusted adults.
➡️ If the latter, embark on a transformative journey from self-discovery to the exhilarating moment of breaking free with this well-researched, easy-to-read book, based on an innovative version of the proven 5WH framework.
Shatter the myths surrounding the challenges of adulthood as you’re guided through real-life stories, practical steps, and thought-provoking questions. Embrace a holistic approach to personal and professional growth and learn how to:
Set clear goals to achieve your aspirations with purpose and determination.
Gain a clear understanding of how to succeed in the professional world.
Handle neurodiversity in the workplace for a successful professional journey.
Navigate the maze of money management with effective tools.
Tackle interpersonal conflicts confidently.
Ensure safety both at home and online.
Unlock a healthier and more vibrant life.
Much, much more.
In addition to the basic life skills necessary to “kick-start” the exciting adventure of adulthood, this guide encourages you to further investigate abilities that align with your specific needs and goals using the suggested method. This way, you aren’t confined to the book’s content and can explore new horizons with the guidance of trusted adults.
“But everyone’s journey is unique.” You’re right! That’s why the book offers a customizable feature, empowering you to shape your own future.“I don’t have time for a comprehensive guide.”That’s okay! You can read chapters independently, offering a flexible approach that fits your schedule.
“I’m not sure it’s relevant to my situation.” The diverse range of topics ensures relevance to common challenges faced by teens, aged 16+, in the U.S.
Because you have the power to …
Choose Your Destiny!
Actionable Life Skills for (US) Young Adults: 11 Powerful Steps to Achieve Financial Independence and Kick-start Your Road to Successful Adulthood
Actionable Life Skills for Young Adults: 11 Powerful Steps to Achieve Financial Independence and Kick-Start Your Road to Successful Adulthood, by Maya Shine, offers a comprehensive and practical roadmap for young individuals transitioning into adulthood. Shine delves into a variety of crucial topics, ranging from self-awareness and health to financial management and online security. Her approach to these subjects is thorough and encourages proactive engagement in one’s journey towards adulthood.
Shine has a talent for breaking down complex life skills into manageable segments, making the content accessible and relatable. The book is thoughtfully structured into 11 distinct sections, each focusing on a different facet of adult life. These sections are further divided into smaller chapters, providing in-depth discussion on specific elements within each broader topic. One of the book’s strengths lies in its universality. Despite some chapters discussing topics like student loans, which might not be directly relevant to all readers, the principles and insights offered are adaptable to various contexts. This versatility speaks to Shine’s skill in addressing a wide audience.
The book is not only informative but also motivational. It strikes a balance between being realistic about the challenges of adulthood and encouraging readers to be optimistic and proactive. Shine emphasizes the importance of essential life skills such as nutrition, tax management, health care, and financial stability. These skills are presented as foundations for a successful and balanced life, underscoring their value beyond immediate practicality. I found the book to be an enlightening experience. While not every scenario discussed was directly applicable to my life, the overall content was engaging and educational. Shine’s ability to articulate the common experiences and emotions of young adults is particularly effective. It creates a sense of solidarity and reassurance, motivating readers to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and to strive for personal growth.
Maya Shine’s book is a valuable resource for any young adult navigating the complexities of modern life. It’s a testament to her insightful understanding of the challenges faced by this age group and her ability to communicate solutions in an engaging manner. I eagerly anticipate reading more of her work in the future.
Pages: 224 | ISBN : 978-1738203352
LITERARY TITAN 