This humorous and entirely practical how-to book for kids aged 10 and up passes along essential life skills with an irreverent voice and graphic novel-style illustrations. From how to write a thank-you note to how to make a simple meal, this valuable advice, written with wit and wisdom, will help every kid taking the first steps into adulthood.
For the kid who leaves a wet towel wadded up on the floor or forgets to put a new roll on the toilet-paper thingy, witty parenting writer and etiquette columnist Catherine Newman provides the ultimate guidebook of essential life skills for kids.
Jam-packed with tips, tricks, and skills—all illustrated in an irresistible graphic novel–style—this book shows kids just how easy it is to become more dependable—and like themselves better, too!
They’ll learn how to clean dirty rooms, care for pets and cactuses, stick up for somebody, and fold a T-shirt. They’ll even get a crash course in using the kitchen (including how to turn a 33-cent package of ramen into dinner) and a boot camp for lending a hand outside the house (mowing, shoveling, and fixing something loose has never been easier).
This handbook to becoming beyond helpful promises that every kid can be a valuable member of the grown-up world.
“Catherine Newman has created a starting place for loving, productive conversations about independence, competence, and kindness.”— Jessica Lahey, best-selling author of
The Gift of Failure “Kids will delight in this witty, clear, and fun-to-read handbook. And parents will rejoice in having Catherine Newman as a wise and warm partner in teaching our children nearly everything they should know — but don’t want to hear about from us!” — Dr. Lisa Damour, best-selling author of
Untangled and
Under Pressure “An illustrated guide that teaches tweens (who aren't eager to learn anything from
you) life skills such as managing money, doing the dishes, and addressing an envelope.”
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Parents “Geared toward kids — but honestly, everyone in the house should brush up on these cleaning and life skills.” —
Real Simple “Emphasizes why these skills are so important for kids to master and how good they’ll feel once they do. The illustrations reflect diversity and avoid gender stereotypes. Entertaining way to teach valuable skills that every kid (and adult) needs to know.” —
Booklist “This succinct and entertaining guidebook describes life skills with step-by-step instructions... No matter who is reading and enjoying the book, the skills are fleshed out with easy-to-understand steps and engaging illustrations.” —
School Library Journal 
