by Adam Carolla
First published 2016
Adam Carolla takes aim at contemporary parenting culture in this unfiltered examination of how today's parents are failing their children. The comedian and bestselling author argues that modern kids, surrounded by iPads, massive televisions, expensive toys, and climate-controlled luxury, are becoming entitled and helpless. Carolla uses his own difficult childhood as evidence that hardship builds character, while helicopter parenting creates dependency. He delivers blunt advice on crucial topics like dating, substance use, major purchases, adolescence, and character development. Carolla warns that overprotective, overindulgent parents risk raising children who will never achieve independence. Drawing from his experience as both someone who survived a tough upbringing and a parent trying to guide his own son and daughter, he offers a contrarian view of child-rearing. The book serves as both a critique of permissive parenting trends and a practical guide for adults who want their children to become self-sufficient. Carolla acknowledges that his own kids largely ignore his wisdom, but he believes other parents should listen.
Genres: family, humor, non-fiction, parenting
Vibes: humorous, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: contrarian-view, practical-guide
239 pages · Paperback · Dey Street Books