Planet Middle School

Starred review from November 1, 2015

Psychologist and media-circuit regular Leman gives parents a peek into the mind and concerns of the average middle schooler, along with some sound advice for navigating these rocky waters. He describes these "expanding universe years" as a time when "your child will do almost anything to fit in." Likening a preteen to an astronaut floating in deep space who needs a lifeline to the person he trusts most, the author advises parents to be predictable, help kids discover what they're good at, focus on their relationship, and listen to their hearts. In Leman's sure hands, no-brainers such as, "You can set up all the rules you want, but without a relationship, they will all come to naught," will give parents appropriate pause before handing over a smartphone, which Leman says is similar to a loaded gun. VERDICT Middle schoolers are definitely their own flavor of crazy, but Leman provides both the hope and long-term viewpoint for helping parents settle into a nurturing internal space. For all parenting collections.

Copyright 2015 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.