For nine years now (or however long it's been since issue #6 came out) readers have been wondering, "What's up with that robot zombie from issue #6?" Well, wonder no longer, because he's in this issue! Mark is on campus at his new college and something is amiss. What lurks behind...oh, wait: You already know!

A groundbreaking, research-based guide that sheds new light on why young people make dangerous choices--and offers solutions that work Texting while driving. Binge-drinking. Unprotected sex. There are plenty of reasons for parents to worry about getting a late-night call about their teen. But most of the advice parents and educators hear about teens is outdated and unscientific--and simply doesn't work. Acclaimed adolescent psychiatrist and educator Jess Shatkin brings more than two decades' worth of research and clinical experience to the subject, along with cutting-edge findings from brain science, evolutionary psychology, game theory, and other disciplines -- plus a widely curious mind and the perspective of a concerned dad himself. Using science and stories, fresh analogies, clinical anecdotes, and research-based observations, Shatkin explains: * Why "scared straight," adult logic, and draconian punishment don't work * Why the teen brain is "born to be wild"--shaped by evolution to explore and take risks * The surprising role of brain development, hormones, peer pressure, screen time, and other key factors * What parents and teachers can do--in everyday interactions, teachable moments, and specially chosen activities and outings--to work with teens' need for risk, rewards and social acceptance, not against it. “Presents new research, as well as insights as a clinician and a father….This book is a clear argument to stop putting ourselves in our children’s shoes, and to try putting ourselves in their minds, instead.” –The Washington Post “With stories (personal and professional), neuroscience and cognition, psychology and clinical experience Dr. Shatkin offers an abundance of understandable, engaging and actionable information. He explains why and shows how. We can reduce risk in the adolescents we love and teach, but only if we know to how to do so and then do it. Born To Be Wild shows us the way to succeed.” --Psychology Today Winner, National Parenting Product Award 2017

This practical companion to Reviving Ophelia and Real Boys shares the concerns of preteens in their own words and advises parents how to approach them confidently and effectively. Many parents may not want to know that their eight- to fourteen-year-olds are already facing serious issues and have questions such as: - Why do people make fun of me because I am from another country? - When will I know when puberty has struck? - How do I deal with the feeling that no matter how good I do it's not good enough for my parents? - What happens when a friend beats you up? Without support, understanding, and assistance, the anxiety these dilemmas evoke could undermine a child's confidence and self-image as he or she matures. In a reassuring style filled with practical pointers, Ellen Rosenberg, veteran educator of thirty years, tells parents how to open a discussion on the day-to-day questions their preteens have but may be reluctant to share. Handwritten queries from preteens are included in the text, and as they attest, your children do want you to know what's really going on. A communication bible that parents will return to again and again, Get a Clue! is sure to help parents and their children become closer and form a bond of trust that will last through middle school, high school, college, and beyond.

On most days, Wisconsin farmer Lawrence (Shaver) Ketch works hard and fast in the mornings so he can be at his mother’s bar in the village of Wonder by noon for lunch. His routine is disrupted when a tragic accident at a nearby lake kills two teenage boys. An old nemesis would like to hold Shaver’s brother JJ, the county sheriff, responsible for the tragedy. Shaver knows that JJ has done no wrong and would like to help prove it. Steve Hardy, Shaver’s fellow bar patron, also believes in JJ’s innocence. A mysterious death at Steve’s business turns out to be a murder. Shaver, JJ, and Steve are not suspects, but they have different reasons for wanting the murder solved. Many meals that Shaver enjoys are described, and insight into the life of a farmer is explored. Before the murder is solved, a bit of humor and some romance for one of the characters holds interest.