This guide is addressed to children in the often neglected middle years--ages 9 through 12--to help them see themselves as better persons and students in the process of growing up. Part one discusses issues that concern children as persons: self-esteem, things that can hurt and annoy, disabilities, dilemmas and decisions, learning to say no to gangs and cults, and understanding persons of other cultures. Part two focuses on ways in which children can change their attitude and grades to become better students. Some of the topics explored are homework, use of the library and preparation for tests. The book is designed to be a personal journal in addition to being a guide, by keeping all left-hand pages blank so that they can be used by the children to jot down notes and/or make drawings. (BAC)