One of the reasons it's freaking me out is because - like all parents - I just want my daughter to be happy. And the best way to be happy, in my humble experience, is to do what you love.
When I saw the title to this book - Who You Are is What You Do - I knew author Heather McAllister must completely understand me, because this is how I've always felt about life, and it's what I sorely crave for both my children.
In this informative workbook, McAllister has created a catch-all nest for teens to fall into and make good on their pending journey into adulthood. The content is designed to clarify the reader's self-awareness and understanding - to learn more about who they are and where they want to go in life.
In a world overloaded with so much mind-boggling choice and so many study options, McAllister tells kids not to panic! She tells them that - believe it or not - they probably have their future direction already well in heart and mind . . . they just haven't recognised it yet.
And this book will absolutely help them discover it.
Although this book is designed for kids either leaving high school or university, I honestly feel children as young as 12 would benefit from its content, especially kids that are already driven and career-savvy.
Far from a bogged-down textbook, Who You Are is What you Do is a funky, bright and gorgeously graphic book, featuring really striking imagery and fabulously sophisticated typeface and design elements. It's an absolute joy to look at, let alone read from.
Featuring case studies, lists, questions, insights and loads of space for self-discovery, it helps kids develop clarity, direction and self-belief, and warmly guides the reader through goal-setting and the putting-together of a shining future. I absolutely love how the book helps kids understand that they are the creators of their life, and that doing what they love is essentially their gift to the world.
Opening this book made me feel like a teen again - in a good way. It was like 'starting again', fresh and optimistic and hopeful and excited about my future (as opposed to just jaded, overworked and tired; sigh). If it can do that to me, imagine what it will do for your child.
Author Heather McAllister has drawn on her experience as a career coach to create an essential resource for schools, students and parents alike.
Title: Who You Are is What You Do
Author: Heather McAllister
Publisher: Wilkins Farago, $29.99 RRP
Publication Date: May 2012
Format: Hard cover
ISBN: 9780980607024
For ages: 12+
Type: Non-Fiction, Psychology
