Strong Kids Against Crime: A Parent's Guide

All former cop Sanford Strong needs is a cigarillo and the theme from The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly in the background to make his Eastwood impression complete. He even has the eyes-squinting-in-the-camera thing down pat. After showing a tape of a possible child abduction scenario, he grits out through clenched teeth "I hope that terrorizes you who are watching it." Gauging from the faces of the parents in the audience, he succeeds. He also appears to have terrified the bejeezus out of the audience of kids he talks to in other segments. Scenes featuring the two separate groups--adults and children--are repeatedly intercut, limiting the ease with which the tape can be used as a tool with kids. There is good information on strangers, respecting the privacy of one's own body, and typical child lures. However, with Strong flogging his book and other video three separate times, not to mention his kick-ass, hyper-dramatic delivery--which is more conducive to frightening than educating--this is an optional purchase. Look for less hysterical titles on the subject such as Keeping Kids Safe (VL-11/96) and Keyeye: Making Kids Safe (VL-7/96). Aud: P. (R. Reagan)