Resiliency In Action: Practical Ideas for Overcoming Risks and Building Strengths in Youth, Families, and Communities
Children who deal with a variety of obstacles, such as those in families "where parents [are] mentally ill, alcoholic, abusive, or criminal, or in communities that [are] poverty-stricken or war-torn," are considered "at-risk" of not being able to succeed in school or beyond. However, longitudinal studies indicate that the vast majority of "at-risk" children overcome these and other difficulties and grow into adults who lead successful lives. This volume presents a compelling argument that supports a positive paradigm, clearly articulated. Beginning with a basic overview of resiliency and resiliency research, the topic is examined in a series of well-documented and logically organized sections: foundations; schools; communities; mentoring, counseling and support; resiliency in youth development and in families; and finally, resiliency and the brain. Additional publications are presented in annotated lists in some areas (e.g., theoretical and program materials as they relate to resiliency and communities). An essay entitled "Libraries as Resiliency Havens for Children and Youth" combines theoretical and concrete examples of how libraries can embrace and build on the resilience model. While a table of contents lists categorized essays, the lack of an index makes finding specific material more difficult. That said, however, librarians may find diverse discussions on resiliency under one cover both useful and persuasive.—Maria B. Salvadore, formerly at Washington DC Public LibraryCopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.