I read the book many years ago and immediately saw the power of Dr. Gordon’s discoveries. I have since read it a number of times as a refresher. This is not a book to get children to do what you want. It has nothing to do with manipulation. And it is not a book to understand your child’s needs so that you will do what they want! It is neither. Rather its power is in using the communication skills Dr. Gordon gives that reveal the underlying needs of both parents and children and then see how they can both be met without stepping on the needs of either. The books is very real, direct, honest and totally powerful.