In the well chosen title and subtitle for their book,the Beshirs' have succinctly encapsulated the essence of their message to parents and their teenage children.Whilst the focus of the book is Muslim Teenagers -the principles of parenting which the authors clearly delineate have relevance for all parents and teenagers.Yes ,the teenager is paradoxically the source of much concern and at the same time represents the hope for the future.It is this dichotomy that the Beshirs with their characteristic clarity and pragmatic approach help us to understand the teenagers life-world-a world charecterised by conflicting values,of tremendous peer -pressure and a world in which these young adults have to live in,undrestand and to establish a solid foundation on which to build the society of the future.This book makes for compelling reading because it is intelligible,practical and it is not esoteric or theoretical.It tackles real concerns and fears.The overriding message one gets is that with wisdom,compassion and meaningful intervention ,parents can effect positive behavioural changes.
Following on their very succesful book Meeting the Challenge of Parenting in the West;an Islamic Perspective,the Beshirs contextualise the situation for parents and children by emphasizing the need to understand teenagers and the bewildering changes that take place during this phase,and their socio-cultural environment which is often diametrically opposed to the values and norms of religion.The six practical signposts offered in their Road Map clearly point out steps that all concerned parents can follow on the journey leading their teenagers to responsible adulthood.We are shown how to nurture and develop a strong personality in our youth and how to transform them from passive apologists to confident young men and women who willingly and joyfully are convinced about their way of life.The principles derived from Koran and Sunnah underpin the practical advice and guidance offered.
As in their previous book,I found that the typical case studies very aptly illustrate the dilemma that confronts parents and their teenage children.How to analyse a situation,how to evaluate the options and how to arrive at acceptable solutions present the reader with many valuable insights.For me personally ,the 'cherry on the top' is always the contribution of the Beshirs' own daughters.In relating their personal experiences,they provide a refreshingly authentic perspective on thr pressures that confont them and the manner in which their parents'meaningful intervention has helped them to make the right choice.Here then is positive proof that even in this day and age ,it is possible to raise Muslim teens who despite being today's concern are yet tomorrow's hope.
Finally,this book is a must for parents and teenagers alike.