Review: I Need to Tell You Something: Life Lessons From a Father for His Teenage Children by Bill Franks
/Ideally, I think the concept of the book is something that everyone should do. You never know when you're not going to be around and it is a great way to share your wisdom and insight to your children.
The title of the book inspired by something his son said that was picked up later by his daughter when they were young. The concept of the book was inspired by a meeting with his financial adviser to outline their views on life that they would want to pass onto their children if something should happened to them. The initial intention was to write a book solely for them but through the process he was inspired to write this for other people, especially those who it could benefit from 12 to 22. Each chapter follow by questions to inspire conversations for dialogue.
I like the idea of what the author intended to do but I wish many of the concepts transitioned from personal to an objective point of view. Since the book was initially geared towards his own children, solely based on what I read, it would be perfect for them. Having your own opinion about certain issues and what you think they should do is fine but considering a broader base, there were moments that seemed a bit judgmental rather than personal insight on how to handle a situation. Some perspectives seem a bit antiquated considering a cultural shift in the dynamics of households that have changed over time influenced by cultural, economic, and social conditions that are not necessarily bad. In certain situations, I felt like certain people or situations were criticized for not be right, which I felt like there needed to be a little more open mindedness towards their situation. It's just what it is. People don't follow the same moral and cultural norms that were once ingrained in our society. You just have to adjust and accept it for what it is but be the best you can be and raise your family with great traditions being morally and ethically sound.
Overall, there were many topics that would open up great conversation within families. Just wish it was a little more open minded in certain areas beyond his point of view and personal commentary to make it appropriate for a wider, diversified audience. This is my opinion and you might feel differently but..If the book was less persuasive towards his own opinion and more objective in the advice he wanted to bring insight to, it would have a broader base appeal.