Happy Grades Workbook: How to Improve Focus, Learning, and Productivity without Sacrificing Joy, Peace of Mind, or Free Time Paperback – September 29, 2023

I love this book and the companion parent/teacher guide. I am lucky enough to know the author personally, and I have seen the absolute magic she makes when working with teenagers. Having worked in education for over 20 years, I thought I had seen every "how to be a better student" idea out there, but this one is truly different. It's not just about grades - it's about the whole child. In these days of heightened anxiety and stress among our students, this perspective is essential!Below is my more "official" review of the books:“Happy Grades” strikes the delicate balance between insightful guidance and relatable storytelling. What truly sets this book apart is Tricia’s distinct approach, seamlessly weaving personal anecdotes with practical strategies to create an engaging and enjoyable reading experience.If you think you’ve seen all the get-better-grades books, this one is different in the most excellent ways! Notably, while “Happy Grades” certainly contributes to academic success, it transcends being just another book about achieving better grades. Tricia possesses an uncanny ability to connect with students on a deeply human level, valuing their overall well-being as much as their academic pursuits.Tricia skillfully establishes an approachable and enjoyable connection with readers, particularly for teenage audiences. The narratives from her life infuse her advice with authenticity and familiarity, rendering it relatable and remarkably personal.A notable attribute of “Happy Grades” is its accessibility. Tricia adeptly distills complex concepts into practical step-by-step strategies that are easy to understand, follow, and apply. While the book’s primary audience is teenagers, I adopted several approaches in my own life. Even as an adult reader with a lifetime of working in education, I was genuinely inspired and motivated by the book’s insights.Wholeheartedly, I recommend “Happy Grades” to teenagers venturing into new chapters of their lives, colleagues who work with children, and parents seeking to guide their children. The book’s practical guidance, heartfelt wisdom, and enjoyable reading experience make it a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration. Tricia’s unique ability to foster connection and growth through her writing makes “Happy Grades” a must-read for teenagers in search of genuine self-improvement and a fulfilling journey of personal development and for the people who love them.

This book is a clear, optimistic and easy-to-understand roadmap for students and parents. It's so well-written and easy to read, and not intimidating. It contains amazing guidance, action items and reassuring perspective from an expert in the field. You feel like the author is working with you, and that no problem is unsolvable. Amazingly helpful.

Review for Happy GradesBy Rachel Gomez Peterson, former Dean of Students at The Paideia School in Atlanta, GAAs an educational professional with over three decades of experience working alongside students, faculty, and parents, I’ve witnessed the shifts in educational philosophies and practices. Happy Grades, by Tricia Underwood, is a remarkable addition to the landscape of educational resources. Tricia's perspective, based on years of experience working with students, teachers, administrators, and parents, highlights her deep understanding of the emotional journey students undertake in their pursuit of education. Rather than being driven solely by the relentless quest for grades, she places paramount importance on how students perceive and experience their academic journey. This humanistic approach addresses the often-overlooked emotional side of education, acknowledging that student success goes beyond mere numerical evaluations.One of the book's standout features is Tricia's adept integration of the science of happiness. Drawing from research in psychology and well-being in addition to the science of learning and brain development, Tricia provides a compelling argument for the inseparable connection between student well-being and academic performance. Happy Grades offers actionable and accessible tools and tips that empower students to critically examine their approach to learning. By guiding students to reflect on their feelings, motivations, and learning strategies, Tricia equips them with a toolkit that is as invaluable in the classroom as it is in life.What truly distinguishes Happy Grades is Tricia's authentic voice. With her years of experience working with students, teachers, and parents, she crafts a narrative that speaks to the challenges and goals of everyone involved in guiding children's educational journeys.Importantly, she avoids the trap of being pedantic or preachy – demonstrating her approach and philosophy when interacting with both students and parents. Instead, Tricia gently nudges readers towards self-awareness and positive change, facilitating the discovery of empathy and a deeper understanding of themselves and how they learn best.In a time when the pressures of academic excellence often overshadow the holistic growth of students, Happy Grades is a timely and indispensable resource. Tricia's ability to integrate the pursuit of happiness with academic success has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach education. This book is essential for educators, parents, and students alike, as it shifts the focus of schooling away from grades and outcomes to emphasizing the well-being of our students as the primary purpose.Having had the privilege of working closely with Tricia as a colleague, I can personally attest to the sheer genius of her work. Her deep insights into the student experience, coupled with her unwavering dedication to their well-being, are qualities that have left an indelible mark on the students we shared. Happy Grades is a culmination of her passion and expertise, a testament to her commitment to fostering holistic growth in every student. Having observed the impact of her approach firsthand, I can confidently endorse this resource as an invaluable guide for anyone invested in supporting students.

Literally, this workbook is a way of life. It's not just for students, but I would question that this could be used for anyone in life wanting to be happier. It has all the 'secrets' of success that make us healthy, happy and whole. This is the first book I've seen that approaches children's whole selves in a way that is simple, thought-provoking and student-led. For those willing to take on this challenge with students or even for themselves, your life will change and I commend you for wanting to make a different in yours or someone else's life!