It saddens me to see people with so much potential neglect their responsibilities. I look at Britney Spears and her senseless mishaps and wonder “what can be done for her?”

Remember when the Harry Potter books were first published and as a result, millions of kids who didn’t like to read suddenly developed an interest in doing just that? Those books, although criticized by some for the magical element in them, had a definite positive impact on countless kids, teenagers, and adults around the world.

I think I’ve found such a book for Britney Spears – actually it’s a book genre. In particular, urban and contemporary fantasy. These books have action, adventure, a little romance, intrigue, and drama – things Britney appears to want in her life.

The fantasy books that I read the most usually have a female main character or heroine. In many cases the heroine has some sort of power(s) that allow her to defend herself against others that seek to do her harm. I find a lot of the main characters to be (at times) headstrong and a little stubborn. Sound familiar? But here’s the thing: although they frequently get into trouble or are engaged in activities that have a potential to be life-threatening,

Their Support Base Is Always There to Help Them

The contemporary fantasy books that I review rarely have heroines that succeed by doing everything themselves. There’s always a supporting cast to help them “save the day.” And although the main character may be plenty stubborn they’re usually not too proud to accept help when needed.

Yes, I know we’re talking about fictional characters but isn’t Britney’s life like a chapter from a fantasy story?

Here are some main plot points from the Dead Witch Walking series by Kim Harrison. Tell me if Britney couldn’t learn a few things from these characters:

• The main character Rachel Morgan, lives with her friend Ivy, a female vampire. Ivy is estranged from her parents but regularly sets her feelings aside to visit them and check on their well being.
• Ivy’s young sister is headed down a wayward path. She’s hanging out with peers that Ivy believes are a bad influence on her. She’s afraid that her sister, who’s very young, impulsive, and impressionable, is headed for trouble. As such Ivy is always quick to provide guidance to her sister. She wants to ensure she doesn’t get into trouble. Three words: Jamie Lynn Spears.
• Zac isn’t without his own faults but one thing he’s steadfast in is his dedication to his children. He puts them before everything else in his life. I look at Britney’s life and I don’t see her parents in this role but she definitely needs someone to provide this level of loyalty and trust.
• Rachel doesn’t surround herself with “yes” people that tell her what she wants to hear. Quite the contrary, her friends can be brutally honest at times and as such, they help keep Rachel focused and on track. They have no qualms about point out her failings if warranted.

All in all it’s because of Rachel’s support network that she’s even alive.

Achieving quick wealth and fame at an early age without having a solid support base can be a recipe for disaster. It’s in times of chaos and turmoil that the support is needed most.

Here’s hoping Britney receives the care and assistance needed to return some balance and stability to her life.