She never ceases to amaze me with her insight and honesty. I consider hers one of the most unique and profoundly important voices in alternative parenting today; it is certainly one of my favorites. Her truths are sometimes staggering and close to the bone — but, of course, that is where life, and truth, are the sweetest.

Her work illuminates the notion that parenting children is only the second most risky and arduous task known to humankind; parenting teenagers, on the other hand — no matter how cool or hip or tattooed you may be — will cause you to light your own hair on fire, question your own sanity, and gratefully take your own life with whatever implement of self-destruction happens to be within arms reach, including Brillo pads, butter knives, and bridges. Ever try to swallow an entire box of Brillo pads just to achieve sweet release from the teenage chains that bind you? I have, friend. Trust me, “The Ultimate Cotton-Mouth” was absolute paradise compared to the sheer horror that was “Not-So-Sweet 16”. Teenagers have eaten my soul with a spoon; they have chunks of my spirit in their stool.

But, when I sit down and read her work, it always makes me feel like it’s all going to be alright…because it is.

From a great writer and an even greater friend — Ms. China Martens:

*This issue has been a long time coming! And now it’s here, 18-year-old-daughter approved and uncensored!*

available soon from local bookstores: Atomic Books, Normals, & Red Emmas
Contributor Copies and Trades will be send out shortly (Monday at latest)