Ikigai for Teens: Finding Your Reason for Being

Gr 7 Up–This young readers edition aims to assist teens in discovering their purpose in life. García, who was born in Valenica, Spain, has spent 15 years living and working in Japan, where he learned about the concept of ikigai. This term is defined as “the reason you get out of bed in the morning.” The text offers a plethora of ideas about discovering one’s ikigai, which is described as the intersection of what you love, what you are good at, what you can be paid for, and what the world needs. Straightforward instruction about the ikigai principles is featured as well as parable-like stories and real-world examples of famous people in sports, music, and politics. Many of the ideas (being willing to fail, taking time to disconnect from the digital world, and being observant and grateful) serve as good advice for most teens. Although the foundation of the concepts may be familiar, this title provides an encouraging, optimistic way for young adults to start thinking about their futures and where they might be able to use their passions and skills.