The book allows moral viewpoints to be expressed in the security of discussion of a fictional event so that participants do not feel threatened or intimidated by being presented with a problem taken directly from their own lives. The book is intended to foster: · feelings of moral obligations · understanding of positive social behaviour · understanding of the consequences of negative social behaviour · understanding that there are not always single ‘right’ answers · awareness of how to approach problems in life and how to carefully consider the options open to oneself · feelings of responsibility for one’s actions and inactions · awareness of where to go for help when one is out of one’s depth · acceptance that it is not a sign of failure to admit to needing help · a true understanding of what maturity is, rather than a misguided belief that it is shown by unyielding, uncompromising behaviour · understanding of human nature and how people feel about things that have happened to them · awareness of the opinions of other people one is in session with · an open mind that is prepared to listen to all points of view before finally making up one’s own mind · an open mind that is prepared to change opinions in the light of new information or understanding of what’s involved · a caring of oneself and of others. Although the stories were written with group work in mind, it is possible to use these stories one to one.

The stories represent current comprehensive school life in a multi-ethnic environment and focus on the concerns of the children (aged eleven to eighteen). The stories are designed to challenge racism and sexism (and many other stereotyped assumptions). Although only three of the stories deal specifically with race and gender issues, the characters come from a variety of cultural backgrounds. White and black children, for example, are equally in trouble, both displaying negative behaviour and suffering emotional difficulties, as are boys and girls.

This material enables students to think deeply about themselves and their attitudes and encourages them to modify any anti-social behaviour they may have. It also encourages those who need help to ask for it. Sections One to Three are concerned with a multitude of issues that affect young people generally, such as bullying (in its many and varied forms), criminal acts, addictions, health issues, questions of right and wrong.

Section Four contains tasks as well as stories and has a single general theme – that of relationships, feelings and the inner person. Issues such as suicide, terminal illness, bereavement, marriage, teenage pregnancy, controlling relationships and decision-making are explored. These sessions are suitable for young people up to the age of eighteen. It is possible to use them for under sixteen-year-olds, if the material has direct relevance to the group.

Synopsis
Challenging prejudice, sterotyping and judgemental behaviour, this volume consists of 40 discussion stories which reflect society and the problems young people face today. Aimed at promoting discussion and awareness, the author challenges young people to consider events and the part they themselves play in life, thus producing more responsible and independantly thinking young adults. In particular, children with Asperger Syndrome or high-functioning autism often have difficulty coming to grips with social situations, so that the stories in this volume should be especially useful for those working with such children. The stories are primarily intended for group work, although they can be used on a one-to-one basis, and since young people take more notice of what their peers say rather than adults, it aims to provide a useful forum for a multitude of opinions to be expressed. No previous knowledge of the topics is necessary and the book contains comprehensive guidance for professionals and parents.

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