Books for Parents of Teens
NOTE: There are some books that seem to fit into more than one category on the right and may be listed more than once. Also, because children do not all move from one stage to another at the same age, look at the books for Stage Five as well as these for teens.
  The Essential 55: An Award-winning Educator's Rules for Discovering the Successful Student in Every Child by Ron Clark
Reviewed by Chris Burdett-Parr
We are featuring this wonderful book because the lessons taught instruct children on the ways to behave and interact with their teachers and fellow-students while in the school environment, but because of how well those examples also translate into living a responsible and productive adult life.
Ron Clark, 2001 Disney Teacher of the Year, made it difficult for me to choose just a few examples from the Essential 55 to feature in this review.
Ron is really a remarkable man—as you will discover just by reading his acknowledgments section. He is one of those unique people who comes along—all too rarely—offering insight, originality of thought and, above all, understanding and compassion for all people, both his students and adults.
He says that a major influence on who he is today was his 5’1” grandmother who loved “Guiding Light,” collards, and snuff.
She, along with my parents, gave me a true southern upbringing, which included respect, manners, and an appreciation of others. In addition to those ideals, I was shown how to enjoy life, take advantage of opportunities, and live every moment to the fullest.
Once I became a teacher, it became evident to me that many children aren’t exposed to the type of guidance and opportunities that I had when I was growing up. I have tried to set an example for my students and be a role model like my family members were for me. In my attempt to give them an outline or a guide to now life should be lived and appreciated, I compiled this list of lessons.
Over the years of working with kids and watching this list grow from five rules to a handbook of life’s lessons, I have seen a remarkable difference in the way my students have held themselves, performed in school, and had respect for others.
We strongly recommend this wonderful book as a valuable resource for bringing out the best in every child.
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