The Success Principles for Teens, How to Get From Where You Are to Where You Want to Be

by: Jack Canfield and Kent Healy

Published by: Health Communications, Inc. (HCI)

Reviewed by Kim Bagato

Success Principles for Teens is the result of Kent Healy’s partnership with Jack Canfield, co-creator of the Chicken Soup for the Soul book series. Healy, teen entrepreneur turned twenty-three year old author and motivational speaker, lends his youthful voice to this inspiring book.

“I learned that the only way you are going to get anywhere in life is to work hard at it. Whether you’re a musician, a writer, an athlete, or a businessman, there is no getting around it. If you do, you will win – if you don’t, you won’t” This quote by Bruce Jenner, Olympic gold medalist in the decathlon captures the essence of this extraordinary compilation of success principles.

Encouragement abounds for teens desiring improved grades and healthy relationships with peers and parents. The first step is for young people to take responsibility for their own lives.

Chapters build on one another: goal-setting and facing fears, rejection and feedback, track small successes and focus on the prize. Main principles are gathered at the conclusion of each chapter with a to-do list. The book is a comprehensive and practical resource presented in a teen-friendly format.

“I take rejection as someone blowing a bugle in my ear to wake me up and get going, rather than retreat.” Quotes like this one by Sylvester Stallone in addition to others successful and well-known people appear every few pages. Stories by teenagers who have overcome obstacles to attain their best are interspersed with true stories by both authors.

This book must find its way into every junior high and high school library. As an adult, I was inspired after reading through this book. I shared some of the stories with my teenagers and strongly encouraged them to read it also. It contains the spark necessary to launch today’s youth into fulfilling adult lives.

Armchair Interviews says: Inspiring message for teens and adults/parents alike.