Saturday, October 6, 2012

Dr. Dobson's Handbook of Family Advice by Dr. James Dobson

Dr. James Dobson is possibly the best-known family counselor among Christian circles. With a radio show and multiple parenting books to his credit, he's also a father to two grown children. He's gone through the years of raising children and offers insights in Dr. Dobson's Handbook of Family Advice that are based on professional and personal experience.

Dr. Dobson's Handbook of Family Advice covers approximately thirty-three topics although others are added in along the way. Topics range from boundaries and communication to marriage and stress. Each entry is short, less than a page, but there are often multiple entries on a topic.

As best I can tell, Dr. Dobson's observations and advice are in line with Scripture and backed up by research as appropriate. Personally, I felt the entries were too short. Often an entry would touch on a subject, but I'd find myself left with questions and wishing he'd gone more in depth. I suppose this book is a good overview, entry-level kind of book, perhaps for those considering children. But, as one who is immersed in the challenges of the preschool years, I was looking for more depth. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."