Joseph Alicea provides readers with true-life examples that speak to the successes and failures of teenagers. Joe's stories communicate directly with young readers. His secondary intent is to share these experiences with parents, hoping that they use them as a means for discussing critical growing up issues with their children. Joe links his message through the paths he took as an example of how every step you take will define your Character, Future, and Legacy. Portions of the text may seem too direct. However, Joe's intent is not to preach. He firmly believes that young readers need to hear the words as he intended them passionate, honest, to the point, and with a sense of caring for them. He wants young readers to recognize the fact that many kids go through tough and confusing times just as they may be having; yet those kids survive. He also hopes that his frank discussions will encourage parents to be as forthright with their children about their own experiences as he has been in his book.
