Local author hopes to help with book Adulting for Teens

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How do taxes work? How do you rent an apartment? Why should you have a bank account or a budget? Perhaps the answers are obvious to an adult. After all, these are things people know about and do every day.

But to a teenager or young adult, this information may not be available. They may have to go it alone in a world that doesn’t stop to give instructions like a parent or teacher would. Brad Willis saw this knowledge gap and decided to do something about it. Earlier this year, he published “Adulting for Teens,” a book he hopes can guide young people through the early stages of adult life.

“I wrote Adulting For Teens after working closely with the principal of Sts. Joan of Arc & Patrick School here in Kokomo and learning how many students are missing the everyday life skills they need to thrive,” said Willis. “That insight highlighted a real and growing gap; one that inspired me to create a resource that prepares teens for the practical realities of adulthood.”

Willis describes “Adulting For Teens” as a practical, real‑world guide designed to help young people navigate the often‑overwhelming transition into adulthood. His goal was to reach them in clear and relatable terms, a skill he learned through years of working with teens.

Willis spent 35 years working at Delphi (Delco Electronics) in finance. He spent decades as a golf, baseball, and softball coach. He has a combination of knowledge of the topics in the book and a knack for communicating with youth.

“You hear them talk about their things in their lives, their troubles, and everything else,” said Willis of his years coaching. “I feel like I got an inside look at their psyche.”

Willis was quick to explain that the book has value for more than just teenagers, despite the title. He believes the information he provides can be utilized by teens, young adults, parents, and even grandparents. Financial literacy, writing a resume, renting an apartment, securing a car or home loan – all of these subjects apply to a larger audience.

“I cover things like, ‘Why is my paycheck less than what I think it should be?’” said Willis. “’If I’m making $12 an hour, and I work 10 hours, why is my check not $120?’ I explain what deductions are, what taxes are, and why we have to pay them.

“I provide some basic budgeting advice, explain how to open a checking account, how to write a resume, how to rent an apartment, and how to take personal responsibility; just things people need to know as adults and parents.”

Willis sees the book as a conversation starter for teens and their families, as he is aware that teens may be reluctant to read these days. The parents can read the book and use its information to teach their children.

“I tried to make it very easy to read,” said Willis. “It’s not very long, so they’re not getting overwhelmed. I tried to put humor into it as well, so they can read it and not get bored.

“But I also tell them right up front that their parents are a great source of information. Talk to your parents about this stuff. If you don’t have a parent, find a trusted adult you can talk with. You don’t have to do it alone.”

In addition to the book, Willis developed a nine‑lesson curriculum for the classroom, which also can be used with youth programs, or as a conversation starter, helping parents and grandparents guide teens through important matters an adult faces.

And, based on the feedback he receives, Willis may author a second book, covering things he might have missed or going more in depth on certain subjects.

Adulting for Teens is available in paperback for $14.99 and hardcover for $21.99. It also is available on Amazon as an eBook for just 99 cents. More information about the book can be found at authorbradwillis.com, and Willis can be reached directly at authorbradwillis@gmail.com.