K.I.S.S.

No, this book is not about the band, although that thought crossed my mind as I wrote the title. K.I.S.S. is a book written by Vickey Pahnke for teenagers on how to improve their relationships. The acronym stands for Kindness, Involvement, Sense of humor, and Service. Making these four things a part of who we are makes us a better and more attractive person in any relationship.

The first four chapters of the book are based on these principles, but then the author expands the topic of relationships and discusses further ways of improving their quality. She talks about communication, appreciating differences, becoming the right person, choosing and maintaining high standards, and being wise with choices in friends. The author has a special way of getting down to earth with the reader so that the reader can take an honest inventory of his/her life.

My favorite part of this book was about the Savior. After talking about the importance of choosing good friends, Pahnke states that the most important friend to choose is the Savior Jesus Christ. The author bears testimony from personal experience of the Savior's love and involvement in our lives. Her testimony is powerful because she is so real and honest, give her undeniable credibility. By improving our relationship with the Savior, we will be able to improve our relationships with everyone else.

This book is meant to have a positive impact on the reader, but the author admits this will only happen if he/she acts on the principles taught therein. To help the reader act, at the end of each chapter the author has a list of suggestions that the reader can do to begin incorporating these principles. These suggestions are meant to only be a starting point as the reader sets out on an individual quest to improve each relationship.