Mr. Hipp actually went out and gathered information about teens, from teens; like myself. This book deals with what seems to be the recent dramatic increase in teen violence such as witnessed at Colulmbine. Volcano is not a book just for kids on the edge, but for kids who are around them and who know what those kids are thinking. With ideas from this book it might be possible to help troubled kids through their problems, or at least know where to go to get help.
This book can also help adults understand what kind of stress we kids are dealing with these days, and not be so hard on us. Many times adults have a hard time understanding what is going on inside a kids head, this book will help adults to realize that the stress that we deal with is very real, as is their own. It is possible, through reading this book, that an adult can be better able to advise us (kids) as to; how to get help, where to get help and when to get help, in a day and age that is very different from when they were kids.
Hipp speaks directly to the reader as he outlines what teens and adults can do to understand, and prevent violence in their own lives and in their community. I felt his caring on every page. He never talks down to kids.
The dynamic cover and many illustrations by L. K. Hanson visually underscore the points made in Hipp's organization of topics, open questions, and answers from teen correspondents. A school or church group discussion leader will find this book a vital, workable resource that keeps the reader riveted, the discussions flowing.
We will never know the number of lives this book on this topic will change, but I am sure life changes will come about. I'm going to read it again! I'm accepting Hipp's challenge to keep the faith, to work with others and to take practical steps to reduce the violence in our world.
"This book addresses one of the most important elements that results in hurt kids: the link between violence and anger. Earl Hipp offers useful strategies for kids to help themselves and others." James Garbarino, Ph.D., author of Lost Boys: Why Our Sons Turn Violent and How We Can Save Them
"Everyone agrees we need to reduce youth violence. Earl Hipp explains how to do it. I hope every teenager reads Understanding the Human Volcano. This book could literally save lives." David Walsh, Ph.D., President, National Institute on Media and the Family
"This book is great! I think it should be required reading at middle schools and high schools across the country. It wouldn't hurt most adults to read it too." Sally Dale, Parent in Littleton, Colorado
This book, along with the Caring Circle: A Facilitator's Guide to Support Groups and Thirty-Eight Great Handouts are all part of a complete curriculum to use in developing broad-based support groups for young people ages 12 and older. Other books that can be purchased that are part of this program to help teens in specific areas are:
-Feed Your Head (Self-Esteem)-Help for the Hard Times (Grief)-Fighting Invisible Tigers (Stress)
·Training is also available -- call 1-800-328-9000 for details.