One great book that you should get for any youth that you know is “Way to Be! Nine Ways to Be happy and Make Something of Your Life” by Gordon B. Hinckley. This is an excellent book and it is written specifically for youth. Throughout the book President Hinckley is positive and upbeat. He means to inspire the youth to do better. He is not critical, but rather praises and gives suggestions on ways to improve.
The book addresses nine areas in which we should focus on improving our lives and ourselves. These sections are “Be Grateful,” “Be Smart,” “Be Involved,” “Be Clean,” “Be True,” “Be Positive,” “Be Humble,” “Be Still,” and “Be Prayerful.” Each section includes a short story or an anecdote illustrating the importance of each principle.
This is a short book, only 125 pages. The book is small and so it should be a quick read for most and not very daunting for the nonreader. It also includes an introduction by Steve Young. This is a wonderfully inspiring book. While it is aimed for the youth, it can easily be applied to any life. President Hinckley uses wonderful examples and stories, some from his own life, to illustrate what he means.
In the conclusion of his book President Hinckley says,
“There they are, nine Be’s which, if observed, will bring handsome dividends to any young man or woman. They will add sparkle to your days and peace to your nights. They will save you from heartache and pain. They will bring purpose into your life and give direction to your energies.”
You could have a family home evening lesson on each of the nine Be’s that President Hinckley mentions. You may also want to read it together as a family. The subjects can help to improve any life, as well as the family atmosphere in your home.