In the persona of Madea, his popular movie character, Perry offers commentary on life, from love and marriage to child rearing to politics. In the foreword, Perry admits to speaking more freely through Madea but cautions that he doesn't share all of her opinions, some of them characteristically caustic and risque. Madea is the prototypical busybody neighbor woman who minds the behavior of all children--and adults--speaking her mind and imparting wisdom and rules in concert with good parenting and common sense. Perry laments the absence of Madeas from communities where children are now left untended by adults. Madea spices her commentaries with recollections of growing up in a black community in the South and growing wiser through tribulations. Tucked into all the silliness that is part of the character is some sound advice on life.