In the spring of 2001, Parade columnist Marilyn vos Savant published a column for parents with a handy guide to what their children should know by the time they leave home. The column inspired an avalanche of email and letters from readers, making this subject the most popular feature in the fifteen-year history of the column. Growing Up is a lovingly written primer that imaginatively combines the humor of Mark Twain with the practicality of Dr. Benjamin Spock. Including hundreds of activities, skills, and experiences, for kids aged three to eighteen, Growing Up contains at least several lifetimes' worth of wisdom sprinkled throughout its thirty-two chapters, with over 1,000 items on everything from car maintenance to career choices, hiccupping to great posture. This is a classic work—and a gift book as well—to be treasured by the whole family for years to come. 32 illustrations.

The format made the book enjoyable and easy to read. The "checklist" feature was interesting!

I wish my parents had this book when I was growing up! At age 30, I learned much from reading it.Though I have no children at this time, there were so many great items/goals I feel I can use right now for myself...it's never too late!

I loved that while there were goals that encouraged maturity, there were also a good balance of goals that stressed just being a kid and having fun! (This is so important today! As a teacher, I have seen too many students under pressure. If we lose our ability to have fun, we're missing out on an important part of our lives!)

While one reader felt the book put too much pressure on teenagers, I feel that it only serves to expand their horizons in life. It opens up many possibilities for children. Not EVERY goal has to be accomplished, but the book is a great starting point for raising well-rounded, socially -conscious children.

I know that I will be using it to some degree as a reference when I become a parent!!

I hope there's a sequel!


Growing Up   November 21, 2002
 6 out of 14 found this review helpful

I love Marilyn but I have issues with this book. I think it puts too many demands on teenagers, in addition to the multitude of demands that they already feel. I think the book gives one the feeling that one is somewhat less than perfect if all of these things (one is supposed to have accomplished by the age of 18) are not completed. Also, many of the things require substantial funds to do!


Growing Up: A Classic American Childhood   September 7, 2002
 5 out of 5 found this review helpful

This book is outstanding and truly a "Classic!" I guess you shouldn't be surprised by the excellence of the information and advice in this book, because it's written by the smartest person in the world!

If your children or grandchildren experience just a few of the many activities listed, your life and theirs will be greatly enhanced! It certainly won't overwhelm them and put even more demands on them. Just take it a step at a time. You don't have to complete every activity immediately. Also, this book is very valuable for children to learn about practical and necessary skills for day-to-day living. It will allow them to become much more independent and grateful!

The beauty of this book is that it's designed for all kids and families, not just traditional families. And most of the skills and activities require little or no money.

My wife and I have two children (ages 10 and 8), and all of us are still enjoying the book after nine months of owning it. In fact, it's a book that you should reference consistently for a lifetime, it's that good!

Corey Dean Schmidt

PS: I agree with the previous reviewer on one thing: I love Marilyn too!