Things I Want My Daughters to Know: A Small Book About the Big Issues in Life    by Alexandra Stoddard Order:  USA  Can HarperCollins, 2004 (2004) Hardcover      Reviewed by Hilary Williamson Alexandra Stoddard, author of Choosing Happiness, dedicates this 'Small Book About the Big Issues in Life' to her own daughters, whom she considers 'the most precious relationship life has provided.' Telling us that 'Truth evolves and is relative, always discovered and rediscovered', she offers insights to help daughters everywhere lead wise and happy lives. These sage life lessons begin with 'Find Work You Love That Supports You Financially' and end with 'You Are Smarter and Wiser Than You Think' and, the finale, 'When You've Made Your Point, Sit Down'. Each begins and ends with a relevant quotation (such as Emerson's 'Life is a succession of lessons which must be lived to be understood', J. Edward Lumbard's 'Don't assume a damn thing', and Maya Angelou's 'A day away acts as a spring tonic'), and features a clear explanation and elaboration of the message. I especially like 'Travel heavy', 'Friends are our escape from the confines of function and position', 'Unplug', 'Promptness is a virtue', 'Every child is full of wisdom', 'Your happiness is up to you', 'Embrace change', and 'Your soul is not for sale.' But all the advice is sensible, intuitive, and positive. I don't have daughters, but if I did, I would give each one a copy of Things I Want My Daughters to Know, a small collection of big ideas, valuable insights, and priceless life lessons. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Teens books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews