The Stress-Proof Child: A Loving Parent's Guide

Authors: Antoinette Saunders, Ph.D. and Bonnie Remsberg

First line: You know what kind of child you want to raise.

Why you should read this book: Basing their method on years of research, the authors teach parents to recognize the stressors in their children's lives, identify how the children respond to problems, and how they, as adults, respond to their children. Once the reader has determined the scope and basis of the trouble, the book goes on to provide techniques, games, and insights for turning vulnerable kids into capable ones. With quotes from young people who have learned from the author, checklists for adults to help categorize psychological and behavioral issues, and suggestions for how to take action in many difficult situations, it's a wonderful companion for parents who are about to throw up their hands in frustration and their kids' perplexing, negative, or withdrawn behavior.

Why you shouldn't read this book: You like whiny kids.