"A beautiful tale of one family trying to figure things out—and, at the same time, a brilliant synthesis of a century of psychological science on how all of us can learn to dive headfirst into challenges, grow and adapt, and ultimately do well in life." —Angela Duckworth, New York Times bestselling author of Grit

Raise kids to be strong, confident, and happy—by parenting the Australian way

Damien Cave and his wife Diana thought they understood what it meant to take risks. As two journalists who traveled the world covering pressing international stories, they were convinced they had seen it all; that is, until they moved to Australia. Suddenly, their kids were being thrown into giant Pacific waves in intensive lifeguard bootcamps, and they were expected to be present and participating instead of obsessing about work or politics. They soon noticed what seemed to be a societal surrender of control to nature and community. In other words? Their American customs were completely disrupted. Living their new beachside life didn't end up being a relaxing retreat, but instead caused a complete reevaluation of the ways they acted as people and parents—and it all had to do with taking unexpected risks and learning how to manage them.

New York Times Australia Bureau Chief Damien Cave delivers an impactful and informative account of how risk taking in parenting, and in all aspects of life, creates happier, healthier individuals and communities. Cave's exploration of Australian parenting culture, through gripping research and storytelling, will have you questioning everything you thought you knew about safety, risk, parenting, and, ultimately, being human.

"An illuminating parenting guide, a takedown of America's self-esteem industrial complex, and a deep study of contrasts between the Australian and American minds." —Pamela Druckerman, New York Times bestselling author of Bringing Up Bébe