Notes on Being Teenage
on Goodreads (74)
What’s inside...
Notes on Being Teenage by Rosalind Jana is a comprehensive guide for teens navigating their adolescent years. Drawing from her personal experiences as a blogger, model, and eco-fashion expert, as well as her struggles with scoliosis, bullying, and her dad's depression, Rosalind offers advice on various aspects of teen life. The book covers mental health, bullying, online safety, dating, style, and more. It includes interviews with inspirational figures and advice from other teens, making it a warm, witty, and wise resource for thriving during the teenage years.
Age
12-18
Length
224 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think are the main challenges the characters faced in the story? How do you relate to these challenges?
How do the characters' experiences in the book compare to what you or your friends experience?
What have you learned about handling teenage pressures from the book?
Can you identify any changes in the characters from the beginning to the end of the book? What caused those changes?
If you could give advice to the main character, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own teenage experiences relevant to the book’s themes to create a comfortable conversation environment. Ask your child how the book's situations make them feel, rather than just what they think about them, to tap into their emotional intelligence. Encourage them to draw parallels between the book and their own life, which can help personalize the reading experience. Be open to listening without judgement, showing that all feelings and thoughts they have are valid and important. Highlight the growth of characters in the story to inspire resilience and adaptability in your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Self-identity and self-expression
Explanation: The book dives deep into the complexities of teenage identity and the importance of expressing one's true self.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to explore and embrace their individuality, leading to a stronger sense of self and enhanced confidence in social settings.
Example Lesson: Navigating peer pressure
Explanation: Through the protagonist's experiences, the book illustrates the challenges and influences of peer pressure during adolescence.
Real-World Application: It equips children with strategies to make independent choices, fostering integrity and decision-making skills.
Example Lesson: Importance of communication
Explanation: Characters in the book experience the consequences of poor communication, highlighting effective ways to express thoughts and feelings.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to develop healthy communication skills, which are essential in building and maintaining relationships.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The story provides insights into different perspectives, teaching the value of empathy.
Real-World Application: Children learn to be considerate and understanding towards others' feelings and viewpoints, aiding in their social and emotional development.
Example Lesson: Dealing with change
Explanation: The protagonist's journey through various life changes serves as a backdrop for discussing adaptability.
Real-World Application: This prepares children to handle transitions and changes in their own lives, reducing anxiety and building resilience.