Gossip: Deal with It Before Word Gets Around

Martha Lamon is a freelance writer and researcher based in Huntsville,
Ontario.

The “Deal with It” books are designed to help preteens and teens
work through important issues. In Gossip, Slavens explains what it is
and is not, how it gets started, the different roles people play in
spreading it, what it’s usually about, and how to stop it. In Arguing,
she examines how arguments get started, how they escalate, and the roles
that people take in conflict situations (challenger, dodger, peacemaker,
etc.). She also discusses anger, and the different methods of resolving
disputes. In Racism, Slavens identifies what it is and is not, and the
roles individuals and groups take around the issue, including the
minority, the majority, and the witness. Suggestions on how to handle
racist attitudes and situations are given.

The text is supplemented with bold, expressive full-colour drawings. A
variety of fonts and layout design add visual interest. The books
provide basic information about each issue, debunk myths, answer
frequently asked questions, outline dos and don’ts, and include
quizzes for readers to test themselves. The prose incorporates language
and terms youths use today and is easy to read. A range of cultures are
represented.

The volumes are excellent as workbooks for individual learning at home
or in school. A list of websites, helplines, and books that readers may
wish to consult if they need further help is also included. Highly
recommended.