In reaction to tragedies at places like Columbine High, communities around the country are asking the same question: "How could this happen?" An important resource for addressing this question can be found in the book Things Get Hectic: Teens Write About the Violence that Surrounds Them , published by Youth Communication. Editors Philip Kay, Andrea Estapa and Al Desetta have put together a gripping selection of essays grouped into categories dealing with abuse, loss, cultural violence and more. Each of the essays is a true-to-life narrative that offers teenagers' candid perceptions of the world around them.

Many times the insights of these teen writers are compelling, although disturbing. In the essay "Why I Don't Have a Gun," the anonymous author states, "Nowadays teenagers get firearms without any problem and then end up using them stupidly. They kill each other as if life were some kind of Nintendo game where you can press Reset and then start all over again."

The imagery he uses is harsh, yet it comes directly from teen culture. The author gives common-sense reasons why owning a gun is more trouble than it's worth. His argument is effective because it draws on his experiences living in New York City. I believe his message will reach people because of its credibility and honesty.

While the book does not offer any clear-cut solutions to violence, it does provide a venue for debate. In the case of concealed weapons, the editors provide an alternative view by including an essay entitled, "Why I Carry a Gun." Varying points of view create important contrasts in the book, and encourage readers to think critically about tough topics.

Things Get Hectic demonstrates that violence among this age group is not strictly self-inflicted. Stories about abuse, such as "Home Is Where the Hurt Is" and "No One Spoke Up for Irma," depict situations where violence or injustice originates with an outside source, like family members or adult authorities. In these instances, violence takes root in young minds through the example of people who hold positions of power in society. Perhaps reading this book will awaken adults to the direct or unconscious impact they may have on the youth around them.

The essays in Things Get Hectic are definitely relevant for adults, but they may hit even closer to home for teenage readers. Teens should find solace in stories of people just like them—regardless of race, orientation or background—who are enduring the same struggles. The authors create common ground as they share their feelings about grief and injustice. They open up their hearts and cannot help but find a strong voice as they relate their personal experiences.

Adolescence is tough enough. While they grow, teens now have to filter images of mass-media violence, rage, substance abuse and sexuality. This generation of teens has seen and heard it all, but have they acquired the maturity to process it in their own lives? I believe most readers will be impressed with the wisdom expressed through Things Get Hectic. I can't help but wonder if telling their stories has allowed these teens to cope in some way with the pressures in their daily lives.

One note of advice: Don't plan on reading this book in one sitting. The emotional content may be too much to digest so quickly. Instead, read an essay or two each night. This will allow the information to sink in without becoming overwhelming. There is so much to be gained by reading Things Get Hectic, but tackle it just as you would anything worthwhile—one step at a time.

Erin Rebant is a college student pursuing special education certification in Kansas City. An avid and award-winning writer, Erin also enjoys volunteering with Kansas City youth on a weekly basis.