High School Musical - Wildcats In The House

Spiritual Stuff you can get from High School Musical

by Steve and Gabi Russo

A Book Review by Linda Wakefield Kelley

Is High School Musical the new West Side Story or Grease? Okay, let me ask you this--where were you on August 10, 2007? If you have any pre-teen girls at your house, chances are you were watching �High School Musical 2.� You and 17.2 million other viewers tuned in that night to make the Disney extravaganza the most watched cable telecast EVER!

Many parents took in the hit show to discover what all the hype was about. Steve Russo went a step further. He decided to write a book using the themes from the popular musical to help tweens and teens glean spiritual lessons from the phenomena. What's even better is his eleven-year-old daughter, Gabi, added her insights to the book.

Steve and Gabi tackle issues raised in the movie such as peer pressure, being yourself, loneliness, acceptance, and teamwork. He applies scripture and adds personal anecdotes. Gabi's comments throughout the book are what make it unique and fun.

Steve shares openinly about his teenage self-doubts and most embarrassing moments in a way many tweens will find hilarious. Gabby did. For example, in describing the way Troy hurts Gabriella's feelings when she overhears him saying, "I'll forget about her. I'll forget about the audition and we'll go out and get the championship," Steve shares a personal story about some mean words he once said to a girl. Then he analyzes what affects the way we treat others. He explains he didn't like his looks in high school in such a way that his daughter, Gaby, says, "Sometimes I think my dad is crazy!" I think that is what I like most about this book. The loving relationship Steve and Gaby have is obvious and they've used that special bond to encourage other girls (and their parents).

From the way this book instantly found its way into my daughter's room the minute it arrived in our house, I have a feeling "Wildcats in the House, Spiritual Stuff You Can Get From High School Musical" by Steve and Gabi Russo will be very popular. What a great tween Book Club or D-Group pick this would be!

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