Nurturing Emotional Literacy: A Practical Guide for Teachers, Parents and Those in the Caring Professions

Chapter one gives a clear definition of what Emotional Literacy (EL) is , its importance and some very relevant theories on emotion. The second Chapter invites the reader to get in touch with his/her own EL- which is something that I regard as a first necessary step: self-evaluation and reflection is a must, before teaching about EL to others. Chapters 3-6 give practical information about developing EL for oneself, teachers, learners, parents and local authorities, using practical and helpful checklists and activities. Chapter 7 gives a realistic but at the same time optimistic view of implementing EL. Finally, the appendices are an excellent source, although for me it may take a while, as they are very english-based and need a lot of work so that they become applicable to a non-english setting.

Extra points for: What I really valued is that the writer shared his persoonal Life Map activity with the readers of this book- a good example and a sign of confidence and how important it is to do some self-disclosure in such books.

The activity section ("Action") at the end of each chapter is very useful and gives both food for thought and also ideas if you are an EL instructor. Together with the Appendices, this book provides an excellent combination of research-based evidence, theoretical background and at the same time a very practical, feasible, understandable and applicable suggestion of what EL is and how it can be put in practice.