Tuesday, 27 July 2010

'Talking Smack' by Glenn Williams

While we were away we had the priviledge of having a little look around the Focus on the Family headquarters. We met some wonderful people who do amazing things. They're a pretty talented bunch of folks with a passion to support people to do family life well. I picked up a copy of 'Talking Smack' by Glenn Williams and finished reading it late last week. Below is my review...


‘Talking Smack’ should be considered essential reading for every parent. Its mere 166 pages make it a quick read but there is nothing mere or insignificant about this book. Glenn informs parents of the importance of educating their children in an easy-to-read manner that will leave you feeling encouraged, empowered and equipped rather than overwhelmed by the task. Filled with practical tips, ideas, conversation-starters and solid evidence-based information, ‘Talking Smack’ is the perfect tool-box for parents who want to protect their children from the very real dangers of drugs and alcohol.

Towards the end of ‘Talking Smack’, Glenn includes an interview between himself, a mother and her daughter about their experience with drugs and alcohol. I loved that after all the positive advice, tips and information, Glenn addresses the fact that there is still the very real possibility of good kids taking risks with drugs and alcohol. Throughout this interview, Glenn seeks to encourage parents to be prepared and to think carefully about how to handle these types of surprises without damaging the parent-child relationship that becomes tender and fragile under the weight of such pressure.

Glenn’s heart and desire to see families grow and become strong comes through clearly throughout ‘Talking Smack’. I was able to see beyond his extensive professional experience and knowledge of the subject and into the tender father-heart that drives him to educate other parents to be the best parents they can be.


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'Talking Smack' is available from Amazon and Koorong.

2 comments:

Left-Handed Housewife said...

Sounds like a powerful book! I'll have to give it a read, as my children are getting older and it's time to be thinking about such things, sadly.

frances

Tracy said...

It's absolutely worth it. You'll feel less inclined to bury your head in the sand...a good thing when it comes to these sorts of issues.