For Real

“Alexander Kopelman has written a profound exploration of what it means to live a life of authenticity and its resounding positive impact on early childhood development. From start to finish, For Real is an engaging must-read for anyone who wishes to pursue a deeper sense of belonging and pay it forward to future generations.” –Danny Meyer, founder of the Union Square Hospitality Group

“As someone still recovering from the bias I encountered during my debilitating attempts at socialization as a child, I believe this book is a boon to anyone who wants to provide better childhoods for their children and students.” –Gary Shteyngart, author of Vera, or Faith and Super Sad True Love Story

“As a new grandma, without the everyday anxieties of parenting, I have a do-over opportunity to be more mindful and more present with my grandchildren. I read For Real not to redo my past but to understand it with gentler (wiser?) eyes–as a guidebook for me to help the children I love by doing less suppressing, less molding, less pressuring, and more listening, nurturing, and allowing. Crafting is my love language, and the creative activity suggestions provide opportunities to bring authenticity themes to life in a memorable way.” –Susan A. Buffett, chair of the Sherwood Foundation

“For Real is a must-read book for any adult who wishes to engage hon-estly with children–their own or not–helping them spread their wings to discover myriad talents and, in so doing, simultaneously encouraging deep reflection and dissection of one’s own abilities and authenticity.” –Avantika Akerkar, actor, advocate, and communications consultant

“For Real is a comprehensive parenting guide with directions for fostering authenticity in children.” –Foreword Clarion Reviews

“Kopelman weaves empirical evidence and personal experience into a compassionate narrative that encourages children to embrace their authentic selves… For caregivers looking to improve their relationships with their children–and themselves–this book serves as an encouraging, thoughtful roadmap.” –Booklife Review

“Kopelman shares strategies to foster authenticity in this psychoeducational guide… . In this well-informed guide, Kopelman gently urges adults to examine their own understanding of (and alignment with) authenticity before they can meaningfully teach the concept to children.” –Kirkus Reviews

“Kopelman gives adults a powerful framework for becoming more aware of those influences and helping children remain connected to their own inner compass… For Real is a hopeful and important resource for anyone who wants children to grow up with confidence, self-understanding, belonging, and the freedom to become who they truly are.” –2026 Parent and Teacher Choice Award Winner

“The lessons in For Real are a reminder to lead with integrity, trust your judgment and define success on your own terms.” –Forbes

Alexander Kopelman is a writer, social entrepreneur, and coach with 40 years advancing social justice and personal empowerment. As founding CEO of Children’s Arts Guild, he supports children in exploring their authentic selves. Formerly Director of Marketing at Girls Inc., he has authored 10 books and lives in NYC with his family.

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