I used to believe that I would be trash-canned as a freshman. Whenever I asked adults about their high-school experiences, their faces turned dark and sad. Yikes. Is that how I would remember my time in high school, too?

I think that a lot of kids are hungry for guidance, but don't know where to find it. There are a lot of topics that aren't discussed (that should be!) as children become young adults. I hope that my trials and errors can help prepare incoming high schoolers for the next four years.

How to Survive (and Thrive) in High School doesn't just cover "school" topics–it discusses life outside of the classroom, as it's just as important. I include all the lessons I've learned in order to give readers a sense of power over their own lives, and to inspire confidence and motivation. Each chapter dives into various topics all relevant to the life of a high schooler, such as college applications, drugs, parents, dating, etc. But don't you worry–it's not just a long series of lectures–I share all kinds of experiences and awkward moments from my life to make it entertaining.

Though I don't know much about your specific situation–your culture, income, opportunities... I do know that you have so much potential! I'm a firm believer that your time in high school will be specific to you and your experiences, and lessons that you learn, and what you do with them.