Book Review: Planet Middle School by Kevin Leman

In honor of Back-To-School month, I wanted to share a recent read with you. Each summer I try to read at least one book that will help me in my teaching day. This summer, I wanted to give myself a reminder of who I am spending time with every day for eight hours and how they view the world. 5th and 6th graders are on the cusp of adolescence and therefore live in a world all their own. I bet it is safe to say that we all remember those days all too well. So I picked up Kevin Leman’s book entitled Planet Middle School: Helping Your Child through the Peer Pressure, Awkward Moments and Emotional Drama. 

From crushes to mood swings to fitting in with peers, the pre-adolescent years are full of situations that may be difficult to work through both for your child and for yourself. Dr. Leman helps parents with topics such as body changes, communication, expectations, and helping your child begin to map a future for himself.

In true Dr. Leman style, he speaks in a straightforward way. He leaves no doubt in your mind how he feels about certain situations. But he communicates in a humorous and understanding way so that you feel like he is a wise friend who has gone before you.

Each chapter gives the reader at least one snippet from another parent, telling “What worked for us.” It’s super practical stuff. Also, interspersed in the chapters are boxes full of quick tips and other information that will help you pick up some ready to use information. My favorite chapter is the last one entitled Raising a Giver in a Gimme Generation. Wise words to help parents help kids to be generous.

Dr. Leman’s book did not disappoint.  It is an amazingly practical read covering every topic under the sun as it relates to middle school students. I am not a fast reader and it took me less than a week to finish the book. It would also be easy to keep handy and read chapters as certain topics arise in your household.

Other books by Dr. Leman are listed here.

 

When you read the book, comment on your favorite tip that you will use with your children.

 

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, remembering that as members of the same body you are called to live in harmony, and never forget to be thankful for what God has done for you.

Colossians 3:15