Adolescence! Just the word can cause us to both cringe and chuckle whether it is remembering our own rites of passage or dealing with the wonderful, weird and often totally exasperating sons, daughters, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, neighbors, siblings, students or just the kid behind us in line.

This book is based on quotes from those same youngsters as they describe their fears, frustrations and dreams. You may be surprised to read that a thirteen-year-old boy would sometimes hug his parents' pillow when they are not at home or that a pre-teen wakes up and "breathes in the new day".

As you read the thoughts of these young people, you will be presented with an opportunity to recall how you felt at that age in a variety of situations and to consider how those feelings may affect you today.

It doesn't matter how or why this book came into your hands, you will never think of adolescents the same. As you reflect on the metamorphosis from child to young adult that we all go through, you will be reminded of the miracle that we do survive with a little love, patience and understanding from the people we meet on our journey.