I have mixed feelings about this book, which I suppose is a good thing. To be sure, I think it's a worthwhile read, with a lot of good points about how to approach some of the more important issues that teens may be facing. But I also think he stumbles in a few places when attempting to reach his audience.

On the positive side, of particular note are the introduction, where Covey revisits the original 7 habits of highly effective people and explains their relevance to the 6 decisions tee... (show more)

I have mixed feelings about this book, which I suppose is a good thing. To be sure, I think it's a worthwhile read, with a lot of good points about how to approach some of the more important issues that teens may be facing. But I also think he stumbles in a few places when attempting to reach his audience.

On the positive side, of particular note are the introduction, where Covey revisits the original 7 habits of highly effective people and explains their relevance to the 6 decisions teens face. He also employs some illustrations/puzzles that do a pretty good job of illustrating his points about how people may think and/or perceive things, and these make considerable headway in helping the reader understand what he's saying. Some of the illustrations and remarks are just plain amusing.

Covey isn't without his minuses, however. I personally find him a little too sanctimonious and opinionated in some areas, particularly with regard to the chapter on sex and dating. He uses statistics and anecdotes that support his very obvious personal stance on these issues (which could easily and logically be disputed) and takes every opportunity to make those who disagree or follow a different path feel stupid. I think this chapter in particular (and, in some places, others) would be better served by presenting a more balanced narrative without favoring one side or another, and letting the reader make their own choices without risking feeling diminished. I tend to take a more neutral hand in these sorts of issues, though, so I admit I have my own biases (and, to be fair, Covey admits his own biases as well).

So, while I have definite issues with some of what Covey says in this book, I will also argue that he seems to want the best for his intended audiences, and that teens can definitely think of this as a book written by a writer who cares for them and their well-being. Recommended! (show less)