I found that some of the text of this jewel of a book applies to parenting either sex (i.e. the most effective parent is a "Loving Hard ... Parent" and the all important reminder that the fruit doesn't fall far from the tree), and I felt an urgency to take notes so that I could be a more trustworthy and effective mom.
This book showed me that my parents did many things RIGHT, which explains why my teenage years--and my relationship with my parents--were so enjoyable. I will reread this book so that I will do the right things with my son and with my goddaughter. I'm not sure why several of the reviews on this site are negative. I enjoyed this book so much that I am buying copies for all of my friends who have girls, as well as one for myself. It is beautifully written, expertly edited and comes straight from an author with more experience with teens than anyone I've ever met. Through her work with thousands of teenage girls, her "insiders" look into the world of young women is profound and a gift to those of us whose sanity will at times depend on making sense of the alien girls in our midst (whether they are our own, or interacting with our sons), and saying and doing the "right" thing at the "right" time. Thank you for this fantastic labor of love!
Wiseman is a positive force for girls (and their parents) everywhere. I saw her on Oprah and wish she had her own TV show to help out even more girls.
I've bought copies for all my friends with daughters - even the ones too young to need this book - yet!reviews: 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, page 19