As a non-optimist, I was really encouraged by the title of this book. In fact, that's what caused me to read it; I was hoping the author would tell me what I was going to get for being one of the last to die. Unfortunately, Petula has her own problems and couldn't console me about mine. Maybe next time.
Actually, as a licensed professional counselor, I'm always on the lookout for a book with themes that help youngsters address the issues they are facing. Boy does this book fill the bill. The kids in yart (art class for students needing help with emotional conditions) are a really mixed bag and their discussions and feelings will meet the needs of many students.
Here's a sampling:
* Alonzo was thrown out of his home because he came out to his parents (Alonzo is gay).
* Koula has a problem staying sober and off drugs. She's burned all her bridges with her family and friends.
* Ivan's mom drowned and Ivan thinks it was his fault. He wasn't allowed to go to the funeral.
* Petula, a dyed-in-the-wool crafter, made her young sister a wolf suit. The baby sucked on a button on the suit and choked and died.
Actually, as a licensed professional counselor, I'm always on the lookout for a book with themes that help youngsters address the issues they are facing. Boy does this book fill the bill. The kids in yart (art class for students needing help with emotional conditions) are a really mixed bag and their discussions and feelings will meet the needs of many students.
Here's a sampling:
* Alonzo was thrown out of his home because he came out to his parents (Alonzo is gay).
* Koula has a problem staying sober and off drugs. She's burned all her bridges with her family and friends.
* Ivan's mom drowned and Ivan thinks it was his fault. He wasn't allowed to go to the funeral.
* Petula, a dyed-in-the-wool crafter, made her young sister a wolf suit. The baby sucked on a button on the suit and choked and died.
