As a self-acknowledged guinea pig for many of his dad's theories, Sean Covey is a living example of someone who has taken each of the seven habits to heart: be proactive; begin with the end in mind; put first things first; think win-win; seek first to understand, then to be understood; synergize; and sharpen the saw. He includes a comical section titled "The 7 Habits of Highly Defective Teens," which includes some, shall we say, counterproductive practices: put first things last; don't cooperate; seek first to talk, then pretend to listen; wear yourself out... Covey's humorous and up-front style is just light enough to be acceptable to wary teenagers, and down-and-dirty enough to really make a difference. (Ages 13 and older) --Emilie Coulter

I found this book (at the age of 40-something) a little more reader friendly than Stephen Covey's book. I tell the teens I work with that Covey, Sr's book is a little more executive oriented and I had trouble connecting with it. This is easier to connect with and I don't find it preachy because Sean Covey so often tells stories on himself.

It's easy to peruse over and over again and to integrate little by little into your life. At least when my time management fails, I can name what I could have done better (put the big rocks in first). When I've spent the day dithering time away at some no-where project, I know I'm spending too much time in Q4. Little by little, it helps improve your life.

I guess I want to comment on the reviewer who thought Sean was trying to encourage reader to always be thinking of something nice to say (ie always kissing up to people). I don't feel Sean was trying to tell you not to be yourself, but well-placed, positive comments can sew wonderful seeds of cooperation and friendship. Externalize your positive thoughts by sharing them with people; it makes a difference.

Great book for teens, young adults and adults.


Teen Angst ?   March 13, 2000
 49 out of 51 found this review helpful

At the ripe age of 23, I borrowed my 18 year old brother's copy of this book and was enthralled.I cant help but wonder what a difference this book would have made in my life if I had read it at age 14 and not ten years later. The layout of the book is fun and appeals to readers of any age. This makes it easier to read. One thing I have to say, is that this book is one of the most powerful positive thinking books on the market. Although it's aimed at teens, the values and tips can apply to anyone. I loved the little excercises which are still applicable. Sean's frankness on matters really inspired me. My favourite part of the book though is the real life stories he relates on how teenagers have overcome difficulties and still succeed in the end. A great read, highly recommended !


Manipulative trite reading   October 8, 2002
 49 out of 110 found this review helpful

A year ago when I was in high school I was assigned to read this book in english. I would like to officially say that nobody enjoyed it in the classroom.
It depresses me that people fall for Covey's empire. The whole book is built around what is in Covey's brain: money. Franklin Covey's company revolves around these books and their scheduling books. Half this book is dedicated to the importance of scheduling in your life, concidence I think not. Self help books have never been a source for inspiration. If anything they're a downer. They are telling you to be superman/perfect and when failed, as always it sinks down a person's self esteem.
His writing is horrible as well, depending on cliche to cliche, to stretch out this LONG book. Nothing he said I hadn't read before in a Hallmark card. The pictures in the book were very horrible. Also I would like to clarify something he said. He put down people who read comic books.
Sorry. As a well read person, I can tell you that it is a pretty ignorant statement on his part. Some comics like Chris Ware's are very introspective and intelligent. In fact a whole lot of comics are better than acclaimed books in themselves. Look at mediocre Anne Tyler and Chris Ware and compare the massive differences.


Fabulous book!   August 18, 2000
 35 out of 39 found this review helpful

This book is wonderful! If you have the perfect life you need not read it, but if you're life is far from perfect read on! The 7 Habits help you improve your life and help you succeed! It gives great tips and it's fun to read. Sean Covey makes you want to read more and there are sections where he encourages you to write in the book. I'm really glad I bought this book. You will be happy too. The funny cartoons and relaxed style of writing is so great. I let my friends borrow this book and they loved it too! It's a great buy for any teen from 12 to 19.