Instead of writing a review from my own point of view, I’m going to present here a collection of reviews by some teens, as well as some grown-ups.
“I wish I’d had this book when I was a teenager and I also wish I’d had it when my children were younger. Be Special, Be Yourself is very wise and inspiring on a lot of everyday topics that aren’t discussed much.”
– Sandra Hogan, Public Affairs manager
“I really love the book. We face peer pressure every day, so it’s cool to read a book that goes against everything people look for. Be happy with yourself, you are the only person you will answer to, in the end. If you have enough determination, you can do anything. Be Special, Be Yourself is on of my top 10 book list. I love it! There is really hope!”
– Stephanie Cook, 16 years old
“Be Special, Be Yourself says you might try something and fail, but trying it differently will give you different results. It beautifully shows that not everyone who looks perfect has a perfect life. Keep trying, no matter what. The greatest massage to parents and teenagers is ‘Never give up. There’s always a way through’. I loved it!”
– Jennifer Masterton, 16 years old
“I liked Curly Line with Flowers very much. Reading the dyslexic writing with intelligent thoughts was very graphic. The Building of Life was my favorite story. I like the ideas very much, and the way the thought processes developed to the very provocative conclusion. Biography so beautifully shows adults and teenagers that we need to appreciate who we are and what we have and feel free to show love to our loved ones.”
– Annique Goldberg, mother, skipper and world traveler
“Be Special, Be Yourself has taught me that being different can be a good thing and we shouldn’t change our beliefs just because they’re not what most people think. People are special not because of how beautiful or popular they are, but because of what kind of person they are inside. The book encouraged me not to be afraid to ask for help. No matter what problem you have, there will always be someone there to help you and someone to listen to you and you should never give up. I learned that if I try my hardest, I will get what I want and that sometimes the things that I want most can be right under my nose…”
– Penny Johnston, 14 years old
“This enjoyable and original book is special on so many levels – from the imaginative story lines, to the way it creatively and sensitively deals with issues of relevance to both teenagers and adults. Be Special, Be Yourself is an absorbing read, which stimulates our thinking about human nature and how we deal with love, acceptance of self, finding personal strength and the understanding and acceptance of the differences which define us as individuals. The interest created by the inter-woven storylines, particularly in Love Me, Love Me Not, are especially enjoyable as we trace the invisible emotional connections the characters have with one another. Be Special, Be Yourself contains positive, inspiring life messages for young and old.”
– Tamara Luski, Music teacher
“Be Special, Be Yourself helped me accept people the way they are. It taught me that it’s what’s inside that counts. It tells us teenagers to love our parent and be thankful for what we’ve got. It is a great way of saying to parents ‘be supportive and never give up on your kids’.”
– Geneva Goldberg, 12 years old
“Be Special, Be Yourself has a powerful message to ease the struggle between power/authority/conformity and the need to express. We’re entering the stage of life when we have to start taking other people into account. It helps teenagers see why they shouldn’t judge people before they get to know them. I feel it’s a real eye opener. As teenagers, we need this book.”
– Clare Richmond, 16 years old
“This collection of stories samples a wide range of significant social and emotional experiences in the lives of a range of young adults, their friends and families. Ronit has managed to convey deep wisdom and sage advice about values and behavior, self esteem and relationships, in a style which refrains from preaching, but rather allows characters, events and storylines to illuminate issues, struggles and resolutions, in a manner which is particularly engaging for young people. It strikes me as an ideal teaching resource for the study of society and personal development.”
– Maria Delaney, teacher