ALA Booklist
(Mon Feb 01 00:00:00 CST 2010)
The FAQ: Teen Life series is impossible to pigeonhole, but it's precisely that freedom that allows it to tackle topics that wouldn't comfortably fit under more limiting umbrellas. While conversational, these volumes are surprisingly helpful d even emotive. Teen mothers get most of the ink, so it's refreshing to see Teen Fatherhood greet its intended audience with encouragement and aplomb. Dealing with feelings of disbelief and blame quickly segue into preparing for a birth, staying in school, and considering part-time jobs. Adoption and abortion are given only brief mentions. The text-heavy, pastel layout is not especially attractive, though the need-to-know topics will drive readers to dig in regardless. "Myths and Facts" sections dispel common concerns, and the back matter offers numerous additional sources of information.
Voice of Youth Advocates
The information contained in HasanÆs small book is comprehensive and easy to understand. Most everyday first aid concerns, such as scrapes and cuts, bee stings, black eyes, and burns, are addressed in detail. Color illustrations help to clarify many topics: frostbite is shown on a nose, x-rays show exactly what a bone fracture looks like, and examples of poison ivy and oak are pictured. The table of contents and index makes information easy to find, and the glossary helps to clarify terms that may be unfamiliar to the reader. This great guide will unfortunately remain on the shelf because of its small size and uninviting cover. Worth sets up each chapter in Teen Fatherhood by tackling questions teen fathers-to-be may have about parenting, including Who Are Teenage Fathers?; What is Fatherhood All About?; How Do You Prepare for the Births of Your Child?; How do You Find Balance in Your Life?; and How Do We Become Successful Parents? The information is presented in a straightforward, nonjudgmental tone that emphasizes choices and how to make the best possible decisions. In the back of the book, the For More Information section lists Web sites that may be invaluable to the new teen father, and a directory of Web sites is updated regularly by the publisher online. Although teens who find themselves in this situation may have these questions, it is doubtful they will pick up this particular book. The size and format make it more attractive to a younger audience than it is intended for. The series itself is not one that a teen would be likely to browse through, or look for answers. Other series titles include Emergency Lifesaving Techniques, Being Part of a Military Family, Wii and Video Game Injuries, and How the Teen Brain Works.ùAngie Hammond.