"COULD IT REALLY BE THIS EASY? The Eternal Equation of Success for Teens,” by Ted J. Peck, Cedar Fort Books, $18.99, 277 pages (nf)
“Could It Really Be This Easy? The Eternal Equation of Success for Teens” by Ted J. Peck is a life handbook for youths based on God’s plan of happiness as taught by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The book uses the premise that life can be easier than people often think it is if they are willing to work hard and keep God’s commandments. Instead of listening to the “evil team,” the author lets the reader listen in on a series of conversations he might have with his grandchildren to whom the book is dedicated.
In a straightforward and often humorous way, the book offers teens and young adults practical advice and suggestions for living a happy life from the perspective of someone who has years of experience working with young people, as well as significant life experience.
Peck offers answers to tough questions and suggestions for making decisions young people often face using analogies and stories from his life, the experiences of others and the scriptures.
For example, one section of the book sensitively addresses the subject of chastity and gives clear, direct reasons for living a chaste life. Although the subject of sexuality is discussed, there are no graphic descriptions of sex, nor does the book contain any swearing, other foul language, or descriptions of violence.
Topics from making choices and life decisions to developing faith to learning self-mastery and dating wisely are covered in 24 short chapters.
Each chapter ends with a review summarizing the most important points covered. An extensive list of questions to use on a date, or with a possible marriage partner, is offered in the appendix. Illustrations are limited to a design at the beginning of each chapter.
Peck provides a valuable resource for teens and young adults as they navigate life’s journey — best read in small, thoughtful doses, as needed.
The author is a father of three and grandfather of 13. He has served in the LDS Church as a seminary teacher, family ward bishop and college singles’ ward bishop. He and his wife of 44 years are currently serving as a senior missionary couple for the LDS Church. His website is at coulditbethiseasy.com.
Rosemarie Howard lives in a 100-year-old house on Main Street, Springville, Utah. She enjoys creating multimedia projects. Her website is at dramaticdimensions.com.