Say What You Mean and Mean What You Say!: 7 Simple Strategies to Help Our Children Along the Path to Purpose and Possibility

"We live in a time of tremendous uncertainty," Judge Glenda Hatchett says. "Our children are constantly assaulted by all kinds of negative impulses and images that can pull them from the right road."

Parents have it tough. Kids have it tough, too. And few people are in a better position to guide readers through these tough times than Judge Glenda Hatchett. As chief presiding judge of one of the largest juvenile court systems in the country, she gained a front-row perspective on the hot-button social issues of our time -- including drug and alcohol abuse, truancy, date rape, and school violence. As presiding judge on the hit television series Judge Hatchett, she continues to build bridges between parents and their lost, angry, and alienated teens. And, as a parent, she's turned her professional experiences to personal advantage, helping her own children navigate through some of the more difficult dilemmas facing young people today.

Now, using her extensive experience as a judge and a parent, Judge Hatchett shares with readers seven simple strategies. Hard-won and heartfelt, these strategies show you how to become more involved in your child's life and maintain a strong relationship. And they can ensure that your child is happy, healthy, productive, and motivated. Throughout the book, Judge Hatchett uses concrete examples and illuminating anecdotes, all told with her trademark verve and passion.

Say What You Mean and Mean What You Say! is an essential tool for parents (and grandparents) and a compelling guidepost on what it takes to raise safe, smart, and successful children even in these uncertain times.

Judge Glenda Hatchett served eight years as judge of Fulton County Georgia Juvenile Court. She is Georgia's first African American chief presiding judge of a state court and was the department head of one of the largest juvenile court systems in the country. She developed partnerships with community organizations and businesses, including the Boys and Girls Clubs, The Urban League, and others, and helped found the Truancy Intervention Project.

After her first year on the bench, Judge Hatchett was selected as "Outstanding Jurist of the Year" for her pioneering leadership by the National Bar Association's local affiliate. She was also honored with the Roscoe Pound Award, the highest award for "Outstanding Work in Criminal Justice" from the National Council on Crime and Delinquency. The Spelman College Board of Trustees selected Judge Hatchett to receive the Outstanding Community Service Award, and she was honored with the NAACP Thurgood Marshall Award. Nationally recognized as an authority on juvenile and social issues, Judge Hatchett frequently delivers speeches and lectures throughout the country.

Daniel Paisner is a New York Times best-selling author who has written numerous books.