Trying to refresh myself on toddler management, I picked up this book based on three things: a) The number of times its been re-issued, ( which means a lot of people have found it helpful over the years); b) the fact that the book discussed spanking among other methods for discipline; c) the long list of Child Behaviourists and Child Psychologists recommending the book (not just pediatricians). The title stood out among others with more politically correct titles on the shelves, with long diagnostic quizes and vague parenting prescriptions. I was glad to find a book that was unpretentious and specific in its advice. I am still reading other books to get a perspective of its advice, but I have really found this book to be very realistic. There is no slapping of your hands for letting the kids watch TV or trying to pretend like child-care would be easier with a difficult child if you were just better at explaining to your pre-age of reason child why you need him to behave at a restaurant. I like that this is realistic and decisive.