Raising Badass Kids by CJ Scarlet is a bold and indispensable guide for parents navigating the treacherous waters of raising teenagers in today's digital environment. Scarlet, an award-winning author and experienced advocate, addresses the pressing issue of child safety with wit, humor, and a wealth of valuable information. The book is organized into four parts, each dealing with critical aspects of protecting teens from potential dangers. Scarlet begins by exploring how toxic people groom kids, offering a comprehensive understanding of the various types of predators and the methods they use. She challenges the conventional notion of “stranger danger” and sheds light on abuse within families and authority figures.

In the second part, she identifies where danger lurks, and discusses contemporary threats like bullying, cyberbullying, online dangers, sexual molestation, assault, and sex trafficking. Scarlet provides a nuanced perspective, emphasizing the need for parents to be well-informed about the dangers their teens may be exposed to. The third part, “What Your Kid Needs to Know,” is a practical guide on sharing essential body safety skills, addressing sexual consent, and empowering kids with disabilities. Scarlet's emphasis on open communication and fostering confidence is the core message in this section.

The last part of the book “Taking Your Kid to the Next Level,” is a call to action. Scarlet encourages parents to boost their child's confidence, equipping them with verbal and physical tools to escape dangerous situations. The author emphasizes the importance of ongoing conversations and family meetings, providing a roadmap for parents to engage with their teens consistently. What sets Raising Badass Kids apart is Scarlet's irreverent yet empathetic approach. She acknowledges the fears parents face but refuses to succumb to sensationalism. Instead, Scarlet balances grim statistics with reassuring facts, offering a realistic perspective on child safety and meaningful parenting. Raising Badass Kids is a must-read for parents of teens. Scarlet's unique voice, informed by her background as a danger expert and survivor, makes this guide both informative and empowering. It is a fun read that is packed with valuable information and the author’s unique voice —filled with humor and empathy — makes the book even more engaging.