100 Things to Know Before You Grow Upis a fun, engaging and super informative book — perfect for curious young minds who love learning new things! If you’re a bookworm, this one must be on your shelf!

Published by National Geographic Kids, this book is a handy guide packed with cool facts, practical tips and essential life skills. It covers a little bit of everything —from social skills and basic survival techniques to money management and self-care — all in a fun, easy-to-read and colourful format.

One of the book’s strongest points is its engaging, bite-sized content. Each of the 100 things is presented concisely, making it ideal for those who prefer quick, actionable information. The topics covered are diverse and practical. It would teach some of our shy friends to say sorry and easy-going ones to firmly say no confidently. It also teaches the importance of empathy, kindness and understanding others’ feelings.

On the one hand, the book guides pre-teens on how to express their thoughts clearly and respectfully. At the same time, it encourages active listening and appropriate responses in different situations. Some sections focus on everyday skills like writing a proper thank-you note, managing time effectively, and learning how to cook simple meals.

For adventure lovers, there are ways to read a map, start a fire without matches, or identify different cloud types. Not to forget, the book teaches you how to make the bed and even guides you on how to make quick bucks. The book has everything from saving the planet to creative problem-solving. Using humour, real-world examples, and interactive challenges, the book encourages you to apply new things daily. You might be surprised, but this book solves many everyday problems.

100 Things to Know Before You Grow Up is a fantastic resource for curious minds under 13 who want to navigate life confidently and independently. A few pages a day can open minds and inspire new ideas. Whether used as a reference guide, a boredom buster, or a fun family read, this 256-page guide, packed with 100 chapters and a handy checklist, is a must-have for you and your friends.

Published in Dawn, Young World, March 22nd, 2025