September 28, 2026 · 5 min

Can I take the car?

I want to feel grown up.

Free

Plain Talk

A free letter every Thursday: one thing a teenager said this week, what it meant and what I would try.

Plain Talk, every Thursday

Chapter 1 · 3:30 pm

Can I just go to my room?

I have been around people all day and I need quiet.

Try Yes. Come down when you are ready. We eat at 6:30.

Chapter 2 · 10 pm

I cannot sleep.

My head is full, or my phone is.

Try Come and sit for five minutes. The phone stays on the counter.