Book Description

The statistic is staggering: As many as 50 percent of Christian students say they have lost their faith after four years in college. For far too many students, the transition from home life to campus life is traumatic--what begins as a University of Instruction often ends up being a University of Destruction...with long-lasting negative effects and no guarantee of return.

Relating his own experiences at Stanford, David Wheaton describes the three Pillars of Peril you will face in college-sex, drugs/alcohol, and humanism-and presents a game plan for victory over these pitfalls based on raising your spiritual GPA. You will also receive practical advice on dating, friends, choosing the right college, and how to get back on course if you have gone astray.

Headed to college? Already there? Let University of Destruction show you how to be an Overcomer on campus! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Finally! A Practical Gift for the High School Graduate!
What to buy that high school graduate who is a Christian? If the answer is, "Buy him/her a book," until now the option had been limited to saccharin, shallow devotional guides. With David Wheaton's "University of Destruction: Your Game Plan for Spiritual Victory on Campus," there is now an option that is relevant, penetrating, and practical.

Author David Wheaton has "been there, done that." From his own experience on the campus of Stanford University, from his research, and from his interaction with 1000s of young people, Wheaton has distilled three "Pillars of Peril" for the Christian on the college campus: sex, alcohol/drugs, and humanism. After identifying the perils, Wheaton creatively offers realistic guidelines for raising the college spiritual GPA in order to become a victorious Christian on campus.

Wheaton demonstrates his insight by not stopping at the "body sins" of college campus--sex, drugs, and alcohol. For the deepest, ongoing college peril is the "mental sin" or "faith sin" of the deconstruction of belief that systematically occurs on secular college campuses.

You know that a book is solid when both Sean Hannity and Dr. John MacArthur recommend it. They're correct. "University of Destruction" is an excellent gift not only for the high school graduate, but for her/his parents.

Reviewer: Robert W. Kellemen, Ph.D., is the author of "Soul Physicians" and "Spiritual Friends." He is also the parent of a college junior on an elite secular college campus and the parent of a high school senior headed to an elite college.

Excellent book!
I could have used a mentor like this when I was a young adult! I am a parent of a high schooler and highly recommend this book. David does an excellent job of preparing the reader for the temptations of "Sodom" found on many college campuses (and many high school campuses as well). He teaches the reader how avoid the temptations by establishing the habits of a godly lifestyle. This book would be very helpful for any young adult ready to go out on his/her own, college bound or not.The same temptations are there in and out of college. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This collection of quotes from Pope John Paul II is a testimonial to his love and respect for the children of the world. Each page offers a stirring, inspirational message that speaks to important Catholic themes in childhood, such as "Family," "School," "Prayer," "Suffering," "Peace," and "My First Communion." Alongside each quote there is an exquisite color photograph of a child or group of children that embodies the theme.

Under the opening heading "Greeting," Pope John Paul offered these words in an address to a crowd of 10,000 children at Vatican City: "The Pope wishes well to everyone, but he has a preference for the youngest, because they had a special place in the heart of Christ, who wished to remain with the children and to talk with the young. He addressed his call to the young especially, and John, the youngest apostle, was his favorite." What child would not feel honored and captivated by such a respectful invitation? This is an excellent gift book for Catholic children, who will certainly beam with pride, prayer, and purpose upon reading this loving tribute. --Gail Hudson ... Read more

Reviews (5)

A Message of Hope and Peace for Our Youth
This book is one of hope and inspiration for all children of the world. It consists of passages taken directly from speeches given by Pope John Paul the II to children and youth groups around the world. The book is geared toward elementary school children of the Catholic faith, but the words will speak to any heart. Each page has a heading, such as "Peace," "Love," "Family," "Faith," and an excerpt from one of the Pope's speeches. There is also an accompanying photo of young children (often depicted with the Pope himself or in the midst of typical religious activities). This is a book that is meant to be read aloud to your child and shared together, as you talk about the meaning of the words within. I find "For the Children" to be especially apt today, in light of the unfortunate tragedies that have befallen our nation and world. One of my favorite passages states: "I say to you, with all the love I have for you,...do not listen to voices which speak the language of hatred, revenge, retaliation....Love life, respect life in yourself and others...do not think that courage and strength are proved by killing and destruction...true courage lies in working for peace." The book also talks about the unconditional love that God has for everyone, about hope for the future, and about praying for peace and harmony in our world. Pope John Paul II is a very wise man, one of the biggest peacemakers of our time. I have a lot of respect for him as a person.I would encourage any parent to buy this book to share with their family and share the message of love and peace found therein.

Words of wisdom for our younger ones
This book has excerts of Pope John Paul II's speeches which have been directed to Catholic children. These words of our Pope, however, have significance even to those over the age of 10. I highly recommend this book for First Communicants and for all other Catholic children, because had I had this book when I was younger, I would probably not have fallen into as many traps as I did.

A Wonderful Book!
As a second grade religion teacher, this book is one of the most inspiring gifts you can give to your child! It is an ideal gift for a First Comminion, or to children preparing for First Communion next year. It's also a great gift for anyone working with chilren preparing for the sacraments. While first and second graders will need some help with the bigger words, this is a book to be read and shared with your child. The Pope's words speak volumes for both children and adults. I also purchased a copy for the pastor at my church, who used portions of the book in his homily at my parish's First Communion Mass. My favorite section is the Pope's recollection of his own Holy Communion day.

Beatiful, inspiring
This is a beautiful book. It contains photographs of children from all over the world with the Pope along with the text from his writings and speeches about children, including his letters to children. Very thoughtfully put together, easy to read. It makes a wonderful gift for children as well as adults who work or live with children - a wonderful reminder of what a precious gift children are in our lives!

For the Children: Words of Love and Inspiration from His Hol
Wonderful book! The pictures are beautiful; they include children from all over the world with the Pope. As for the text, the title says it all... page after page of loving messages from The Pope Who Loves Children. I'm looking forward to sharing it with my two boys (it will be an Easter gift.) It will be a very special keepsake! The special padded, hardcover binding makes it extra-nice; it is a perfect gift for any child, from newborn on up. ... Read more

Book Description

Dip into this book and discover a new idea for each day of the year. Look up today, look up yesterday, look up last week. Look up your birthday, your best friend's birthday, or you UNbirthday! But look it up! Life is fun. Facts are fun. And so is this book. Don't wait. Don't hesitate. You'll find an idea to help you meditate and cogitate - on every date. It's great! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

365 great ways for your child to grow in faith
Here's the book you've been wanting to give your child and one they'll actually be excited to read. "365 Fun Facts" doesn't just educate; it sparks interest in their Catholic faith by providing digestible tidbits of information and encourages them to push that faith farther in their daily lives.

Each day's entry starts out with an interesting fact, from stories of saints to national holidays (US) to science trivia, even a bit of popular culture and both Church and American history. Even parents will learn a thing or two! The daily passage concludes with simple ways your child can grow in his or her Christian faith, both in thought and action. In addition, some entries suggest creative activities - like making a scrapbook, outlining the family tree, folding paper airplanes - that can be done together. Humorous illustrations also dot each page.

As an adult I'm consistently impressed by the seamlessness of fact and faith in this book. Being a strong Catholic or even a compassionate person is not as hard as us older folks make it out, and kids, especially those who read this book, understand that well. Synder transforms the perils of Superman, the Great Wall of China, and the wedding at Cana into reasons for reexamining our faith and actions, thus making Catholicism slightly more accessible for those a little resistant to Catholic education of the parochial or Sunday school variety. (i.e., March 27: Superman may have had X-ray vision, but how might we use X-ray vision to see into other people's lives and try to understand what happiness or sorrow they are experiencing?) Kids will have no trouble relating to these simple lessons that form the foundation of their faith, and I only regret that more of us hadn't read it when we were younger.

Every day is special
Each day of the year has a special Catholic tidbit of information. Some are for small children, for pre-teens, for adults, for lapsed Catholics, and some are just plain interesting!

The booklet isn't really intended as a classroom type reading, but instead, as a handy book to just offer a starting point for further study. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Great short resource for students
I give this four stars only because many of the days don't include anything beyond the scripture passage and a quote. The days that do, however, provide excellent devotional thoughts. Along with this, the entire framework of the Bible is covered in only minutes a day. What more can be expected of one book (outside of the Bible itself?).

The best way to use this resource is to study it in a group with the curriculum written by the author available at simplyyouthministry.com. Use this with your class and the impact will be much greater.

Great way to get to know God's Word...
I got this book when I started to deepen my faith and found it as a great way to learn the Bible. Every day, there is a story from the Bible that includes scriptures to look up that apply to the story and a fun thing such a verse to memorize or a profile on a person in the Bible. I have since passed it down to my sister and she reads it every day. A great book with great intentions.

1 minute Bible 4 students
I am in my early forties and just found a type of Bible that I really enjoy reading. It is not easy to read just one study a day since you want to continue reading. Would recommend to those who want to start reading the Bible.

Best devotional I have ever read
I am a middle schooler and I read it every day. my church friends read it every day and like it. This is a very good way to learn the bible in 1 year and be able to read it year after year. my youth paster gave this to me because he thinks its a good way to read the bible. this book only does the main points of the bible but at the bottem of each scripture it show verse that are realated to that scripture.

A Must buy!!!
I am a youth pastor and have used the one-minute Bible with my teenagers. They love it! For those of them that struggle with reading the Bible on a daily basis, this is a great tool to start a lifelong habit of doing so! Doug Fields is concerned about teenagers having Scripture in their lives, and so am I! Don't miss out on this great tool! ... Read more

Book Description

What happens when an affable parish priest is confronted by a pair of curious second graders who want to help him solve the Mystery of the Eucharist? Why, he turns it into a teaching opportunity for the entire First Communion class.

The book is a wonderful combination of storybook, reference book, and keepsake book. The storybook section mixes a bit of 'who-done-it' drama with traditional religious education to uncover the mystery of faith. Father Hugo challenges the children to look throughout the church for clues to solve the Mystery. Then he and the parish staff together explain how the things they find, the prayers they say, and the music they sing all relate to Jesus Christ and the Eucharist.

The reference section of the book contains a rendering of 'our church' that identifies the sacramentals and other items the children find. It also includes information children should know when making their First Communion.

The last section of the book allows the First Communicant and his or her family to record the events of this special day, making it a lasting keepsake. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

simply wonderful
This book is a must read not only for children who are about to make their First Communion, but for the parents of the children as well. It's an easy to read book that takes you step by step through the process of this special day in their lives. Children will love it not only for the writing, but for the beautiful illustrations. Parents will love it because it's a wonderful refresher course as they recall their own First Communion.

Mom in San Diego
My daughter received this book for her First Communion. We just finished reading it together and I don't know who learned more. The story kept us both entertained. She could identify with the children in the story and loved the 'mystery' aspect. The explanation of things found in the church and the Mass, though detailed, are kid-friendly. I just love everythning about this book and highly recommend it. ... Read more

Book Description

Samuel and Rebecca Rainey, preteens themselves not many years ago, add their perspective as young adults who vividly recall their own successes and failures as teenagers. Covering such topics as friends, peer pressure, boundaries, dating, and sex, the Raineys address the most common traps of adolescence and teach young people how to avoid making poor choices. Short, concise chapters are filled with engaging illustrations and practical applications. This book is essential reading for preteens. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Timeless biblical stories are lovingly brought to a child's level inthis read-aloud treasury. Editor William Bennett (The Children's Book of Virtues)starts with "Daniel in the Lion's Den," a story that epitomizes the courage ittakes to stand firm in one's faith. While he also includes the story of "TheLittle Lost Lamb" (based on Luke 15: 3-7), Bennett is broad-minded enough toinclude numerous other stories that touch upon the meaning of faith withoutbeing biblical in origin. For instance, young readers will be exposed to greatwriters such as Leo Tolstoy in the short story "Where Love Is, God Is" and OscarWilde in "The Selfish Giant." Although the old-fashioned style of illustrationswill no doubt feel nostalgic for some, they are also a throwback to a time whenwhite folks were the only people represented in children's Christian literature.Even Moses has light skin. One of the few characters to actually have color inhis face is the bald, brown-skinned devil. A shameful lapse in an otherwisenoble attempt. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Excellent for both children and parent
I found this book just incredible. The stories are just wonderful for teaching the children valuable lessons and virtues. It's hard to explain the book, other than that my kids enjoyed hearing them, I enjoyed reading them, and the lessons in the stories challenge both child and parent alike.

Could have been broader
Nicely done. It is difficullt to find good books that teach the virtues of faith without being heavy handed. I would have liked a few more faith stories from non-Christian traditions. My seven year old is enjoying it.

FAITHFUL!
This beautiful, gently written and illustrated book will certainly appeal to all ages. It is a delightful presentation of Christianity and, I think, provides a gentle overview of Christian concepts. Young readers will especially appreciate the illustrations. This book is an excellent teaching tool and a good way to form conversations regarding to Christian faiths. It is a treasure and a wonderful part of any family. I really love this book.

Inspirational; not just for children
Where is the greatest source of wisdom in today's society? Despite the common cries of cultural despair, William Bennett has rightly identified the Bible as the source of the moral tenets which we aim to inspire in our children. Although the stories are written in simple, accessible language, children and adults of all ages will be moved and inspired by the simple truths contained herein.

Enlightning
This is one of the great books for children. Besides being entertaining it is educative as well. It works towards improving ones knowledge and faith. This book is a must read and should be there in every family.Some of the chapters are just great and personaly I just loved the book ... Read more

Book Description

Before David Ponder ever visited Truman in The Traveler’s Gift, Michael Holder began his journey as the last young traveler to receive the unique gifts of wisdom offered by historical greats. 

In his senior year of high school, Michael hits rock bottom.  Having been caught in the wrong place at the wrong time, he has now been suspended from the track team and lost his college scholarship. His coach is angry, his parents are disappointed, and he’s diving headfirst into a downward spiral. Facing the bleak future ahead, he sees no way out and wonders if life is really worth living.  But with some divine intervention, he’s given a second chance when he’s offered a once-in-a-lifetime journey of discovery.

Rewritten to engage the minds of teens and tweens, The Young Traveler’s Gift is sure to encourage and enlighten young men and women as they prepare to face the journeys that lie ahead.

Reviews (1)

A Great Book
The people in the book were like me because the kid was nearly my age. The story had some sad parts but a happy ending that made me feel good. I have already recommended the book to my friend at school who had already read The Traveler's Gift. ... Read more

Book Description

PREGNANCY AND BIRTH-GOD'S MIRACLE OF CREATION ALL OVER AGAIN.Before I Was Born is the second book in the GOD'S DESIGN FOR SEX series, written to be read with children ages 5-8.With an age-appropriate, straightforward text and informative illustrations, Before I Was Born explains sex as a special gift God gives to a husband and wife and covers such topics as: 1) Why God made boys' and girls' bodies different; 2) God's plan for loving marriages and families; 3) The basic facts about intercourse, presented in the context of marital love and intimacy; 4) Conception and fetal development; and 5) Childbirth and breastfeeding.Created to answer the questions inevitably asked by young children, Before I Was Born will help you give your child a vital head start in understanding God's intended purpose for procreation and sex. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

very appropriate for Christian families
I had a hard time finding a book that I was comfortable giving to my 8 year old daughter, but this book did the job! We are a Mormon family, and I am very happy with this book, as it puts sex into the context of being a gift from God for husbands and wives. It refers to Bible scriptures, and discusses sex as a way to begin a family within marriage. The pictures are beautiful watercolors, so they aren't shocking for a child to view. It explained how sex works, and helped to begin a comfortable discussion with my daughter. I am very impressed with this book, and would recommend it to anyone wanting to begin a similar discussion with their children.

overwhelmingly Christian
The info is complete, but I could really do without the preachy Christian world view.

Having said that, if you are a devout Christian and a frustrated with having you beliefs undermined, then this is the book for you. Good knowlege, and solid writing.

For Everyone Else: a better pick would be:
Where Do Babies Come From?: For Ages 6 to 8 and Parents (Learning About Sex Series, Bk. 2)
by Ruth S. Hummel,

Both books are solid picks for Public and School Libraries, dependant on your service area

Informative at a childs level
My husband and I have two boys under the age of ten and we are facing issues with sex. Our children are hearing about sex from children at school and on the bus. We are a Christian family and want our children to have Christian views on something so important. We bought the whole series and our boys now have all the answers they need from us. Thank you so much for this series.

An Important Topic about an important issue
To the parents who wrote that children ARE NOT thinking about these issues, you are really fooling yourself and in denial. I'm certainly not pleased to be facing this topic with my seven year old, however children are questioning these issues a lot sooner than we ever did.
This book is a good tool to explain to an already inquisitive child.

why bother?
There is no point to these books. kids that are 5-8 really dont care about sex and the consequences. They wont remember it, and by the time that they start to care, they will most likely be atheists anyway. God has nothing to do with sex. Your creationism ideals are old-fashioned and have no place in modern society. The facts are that the human race was produced from natural selection and survival of the fittest. Kids are going to have sex anyway, no matter how much you preach to them. You shouldn't force your childern into your own religious dogma. If you really need to teach children about sex talk to them yourselves instead of having a lifeless substitute. ... Read more

Book Description

Today I Was Baptized tells a heartwarming story of an infant's baptism and includes short essays about the sacrament of baptism, its origin and traditions. There is also room for you to record the story of your baby's baptism. You will enjoy reading and sharing this book with your child/children today and for years to come. The beautifully illustrated story is appropriate for children of all ages, while the essays are enlightening for older children and adults. The book definitely reflects ecumenism as it was written with guidance from both a Catholic priest and a Methodist minister. The book's endearing illustrations of babies, angles and the baptism celebration make it a valuable keepsake of this special day. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Super for all faiths!
I love this book!

It is beautifully illustrated and tells the story of Baptism with words and pictures that a child, as he or she grows, will understand.

There are pages in the back for parents to record thoughts and feelings from the special day, as well as pages for photos.

Thumbs up!

Today I was Baptized
I received this book as a gift for my sons Baptizim and I can not say enough about it. What a Wonderful keep sake. I have now purchased one for my daughter, and as long as this book is available, I do not have to think hard about what to get other parents for there Child's special day.

Great Mix of Religion
I gave this book as a gift to a family member who shares two different religious views between her and her spouse. This book is excellent on sharing the importance behind baptism and the different religious viewpoints. It is very easy to read to the child and the illustrations are beautiful. The other excellent point about the book is that it is very complete. The author has thought of everything - even a section for the special photos from the day! This is a great gift to give to anyone who is going to have a special day for their child.

Today I Was Baptized
This book was a special addition to the blessed day when two of our Granddaughters were baptized. It gives scripture and explains in depth why we are baptized. It enlightens anyone who reads it, and is a wonderful memento for the child. ... Read more

Book Description

Best-selling author and clinical psychologist Dr. Henry Cloud gives graduates nine life principles that, if applied, will truly help them to succeed in their life endeavors.9 Things Graduates Must Do offers revolutionary ideas such as Act Like An Ant, Hate Well, Don't Play Fair and Upset the Right People to help jolt grads into a new way of thinking that will prepare them for the road ahead.In Dr. Cloud's clear and engaging style that is always consistent with biblical principles, young people will have the chance to avoid years of hard-learned lessons and find keys to succeed in life. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Great for Teenagers and their Parents
I wasn't expecting a whole lot when I picked this book up. Perhaps a tongue and cheek take on the dating scene. However I found a lot of depth and insight that is Christian based but not a glaring fire and brimstone, you will go to hell sermon.

It's well written, funny, and has some good examples. However, the book is aimed toward the high school crowd. If you're a teenager, check it out. If you're a parent of a teenager, definitely get it, read it, and use it as a basis to start talking to your kids about sex and dangers therein. If you're none of the above, and did all the bad things in high school the book warns you against go ahead and look into it. Then if you're a guy get John Eldredge's, Wild at Heart.

And if you are not part of the sex crazed teenage population and have been offended by the portrayl of men and women's feelings and attitudes expressed by the authors, I'm sure they're sorry. You have fought the good fight and have my utmost respect. However, with the way divorce and teenage pregnancy rates are going, the views conveyed in this book have merit.

GREAT
This book is a must read for teens as well as adults. It opens both girls and boys up to each others minds, and lets you see the reality. It tells the whole truth- ugly and good, but everything the book is about is something that every girl and guy should know. Justin and Hayley have done just an awesome job with this book, and everyone should read it. It's amazing!

Honest, Funny, Enlightening
I liked this book because it really doesn't sugar coat that much. It honestly tells it how it is. They tell you the truth about how each of the sexes act, and tips on how you should act accordingly. This book shows that in playing the dating game, how some things will end up, or how to know when to say no.

Gender roles perpetuated
Why is everything in this book about the male being dominant and the female submissive? Allow me to insert some excerpts. At one point, the author states that "this whole women's lib thing has less to do with women getting rights and more to do with men becoming pansies." Skewed, homophobic logic drives sentiments like this. The girl is "strong" so the boy must be gay. Most of the second half of this book is about outdated, stereotypical roles of boys and girls. The boy should pay ("going dutch" on the relationship quiz bumps you very close to the "Wake up!" category, which states that "This relationship is definitely destined for failure. Get out while the getting is good.")
"If you dress like a piece of meat, you're gonna get thrown on the BBQ." I'm appalled. While I do believe there are certain limits on reasonable attire for anyone, I refuse to believe that women who are confident and comfortable with their bodies should be pestered because some random man walking down the street sees her and can't control his raging hormones enough to suppress the totally unnecessary whistle that follows. So maybe when boys run around with their shirts off, girls watch. But others don't call them a whore for it.
To me, the "What's Your Type" quiz is totally ridiculous. The instructions say "Mark the space by the things you prefer in your man." Some traits are denoted by flowers, others by skull and crossbone symbols next to them. Hmm, now which am I supposed to choose? Furthermore, what ARE some of these good qualities? "Goofy, no girlfriends, calls all the time, no piercings, gives lots of compliments, you're his life, intelligent, barely touches you, popular, needs you." In comparison, the bad qualities include traits such as "tattoos, quiet, piercings, HAS HIS OWN LIFE, artistic, mysterious, loner, can get along without you." Why is it that a relationship should be two unpierced, booksmart but not creative, excessively social people who need eachother and refuse to do anything without one another? Relationships are like Venn diagrams, they intersect in some places, but there are differences too. What's the point of dating someone who can't get along without you, who has no life of their own, etc? Why not just date yourself, at least you'd never stand yourself up.

Repeatedly encouraging males to "be a man" and not "a pansy" while also enforcing the idea that men control relationships basically just reaffirms the old stereotypes of provider vs child-bearer, as well as telling men that it's okay to hate women and gay people. I mean, no one wants to be a pansy, right? And making an attack on someone's masculinity by calling them a girl (...) only shows that the people who talk like this don't see any potential for equality between men and women.

A MUST Read for anyone of dating years
A fantastic book about the realities of dating. A must read for any and all teenagers (not bad for a dating adult either). Sound advice written in an very enjoyable easy to read format. Give it to every teenager in your life. ... Read more

Book Description

Our youth are bombarded by worldly messages about sex and love. Without God's help, remaining sexually pure is nearly impossible. Dannah Gresh's And the Bride Wore White exposes our culture's lies about sex, and prepares young women and girls for the world's pressures-giving them seven "secrets" of biblical purity. ... Read more

Reviews (36)

"And the Bride Wore White"--a must-read for teen girls!
I believe that the book "And the Bride Wore White" is one that would greatly benefit junior and senior high school girls today. Dannah speaks from the heart regarding relationships with "guys", your relationship with God, and how to keep them both where they belong. She clearly shares with her readers the benefits of staying both physically and emotionally pure. Her stories about her dating experiences are relevent today, giving girls solutions to problems that can be life changing when handled appropriately. It was a great book to read, easy to follow, and a blessing to me as a mom and former "teen girl".

And the Bride wore white
I have never been so inspired by a book such as this. I strongly advise all teenage girls to read this book,it could change their lives completely. Dannah is an inspiration to all who read this book and the honesty and sincerety of this story involving Dannah's teen years is heartwarming and a real tribute to her faith in God. Please do not miss the blessings you get from reading the trials and tribulations Dannah shares with her readers.I am very proud of my daughter-in-law and have learned a lot about her and love her even more.

BOOK GOOD ENOUGH FOR ADULTS
I am reading the book and I am single 38 years old. I find the book extremely helpful. I think if you want to have a pure life for God as a single woman I think this book would be a good one. I am ready to give the book to several of my friends. I find that it is a decision about being pure. I plan to also share the book with my church website and suggest the teen and possibly the preteen girls of the church read this book and the boys read "Who Moved the Goal Post?". The chapters are just right for the teenagers. I plan to get the leadership book so that I can lead a Bible Study group on this. Thanks so much Dannah and Bob.

A junior high youth leader's perspective
I bought this book to "skim" for information that I could use for my junior high youth group girls. I couldn't stop reading! I stayed up late to read to the very last page.

The nonfiction text is full of true accounts from all kinds of girls and women and that kept the pace of the book very readable. While some nonfiction can get bogged down in details and over-explaining, Dannah Gresh is a gifted storyteller and uses beautiful language with a gentle, encouraging style.

I found this book extremely helpful for use in our church's junior high youth group. Since that time, the author has put together a leader's guide, but I made my own lesson plans based on the book and it was a wonderful experience!

I did find, though, that the junior high girls didn't read it as voraciously as I had. Their older, high school sisters loved it, so I'd say the reading level is 9th or 10th grade.

I highly recommend this book!

Practical advice that's already been given.
There are scores of book on purity on the market today, and they're all starting to sound the same. The seven secrets don't feel like secrets after already being familiar with abstinence/purity. The author's intentions in writing this was that no one ever told her HOW to live chastely. One radical and increasingly unpopular idea about how to live is this: Read the Bible. There are many references and guidelines to help. 1 Corinthians 7:1 is a starting point.

The writing style felt awkward as though the conversational approach was forced in some places. The text is littered with way too many parenthetical phrases (which became annoying). Nevertheless, the reader will be able to see the author's desire for women to value themselves and have a strong relationship with God.

I've read and re-read this book several times, and I still can't shake the sense of feeling just a little deceived. The fact that the author didn't marry as a virgin doesn't make her any better/worse than someone that did. I don't like her ambiguity about it throughout the book only to confirm it near the end in very certain terms. She does make reference to her "sexual sin" a few times, but that's such a subjective term that it's open to interpretation. I don't believe the author intended to deceive the anyone at all. However, the way she presents her story discredits her honest approach to some degree. Bringing everything out in the open in the beginning would make the book more effective.

Overall, it's not a bad book and it's not groundbreaking either. How much you enjoy it will depend more on what you already know about purity than on what the author has to say. Be sure to use the "Look Inside" feature before buying. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A changed teen
this devotional book is amazing! my youth group is currently working through this book. i can already see the amazing things God is doing. Being part of a youth group with out a youth pastor or youth leader is hard. When a young adult stepped up with this book i was hestitant, but i can see God working through this and in us.

Life Changing
This is one of the best devotinal books I ever read. It helped me to see what God wanted for me in my life. It really turned my life around.
I was so glad I bought it at my youth camp. That's where I met Stuart Hall himself (awesome goddly man to meet). He mentioned this book at the camp for those who wanted to learn more about what he talked about. (I surly did!)
This book covers everthing from the Basics to Moral Boundries, Friends, and Choices.
God really worked on me through this Book and his very own word.
I hope any and all who read this book will be abel to see God more clearly as I did.

A Volunteer Youth Sponsor looks at "The Seven Checkpoints"
I am a volunteer youth sponsor for our small church and youth group. Recently, and coincidentally, our full-time youth pastor and our only other youth resource person resigned. Without full time leadership we sponsors were feeling mighty inadequate. I heard Andy Stanley on a radio talk show doing a promotion for his new book. I bought the book and found it to be not only an easy read but clearly delineated and organized for even those of us in part-time volunteer ministry. Stanley and Hall offer some unorthodox but very sensible approaches to planning and maintaining a youth group over a long period of time with a specific goal in mind. The book is so easy to follow, we have decided to adapt our curriculum to their philosophy of these seven pivotal checkpoints. I recommend this book for any struggling youth volunteers like me and for any of those in full-time ministry.

A wise choice
Kids face so many difficult challenges in today's chaotic culture. Andy Stanley talks practically and from the heart to help teens to live victoriously in the middle of this generation. One especially helpful checkpoint is encouraging teens to make wise choices and showing them how. Rather than telling kids that they're making wrong choices, they can consider making the wisest choice in any situation. This builds them up rather than cutting them down. It nourishes the spirit rather than stifling them. ... Read more

Book Description

Teens have a lot of questions about God and faith, such as, Is God really there? Does He really care about my life? How should I pray? How can I know if God is listening or if He has anything to say to me? How do I know what plans He has for my life? This interactive journal is designed to help teens answer those questions and connect with our heavenly Father every day to gain a deeper understanding of what His Word says to them.

12 Months of Faith will teach teens these truths and more:

• How God's grace and promises apply to their lives 24/7
• How to make God-directed decisions
• How to recognize sin and its deception in their lives
• The power of repentance and forgiveness
• How to bring God into their relationships
• Why we must sometimes experience sorrow and suffering
• How to make a godly impact on the world

Based on twelve principles examined in each month of the year, 12 Months of Faith will guide teens through their own writing, daily prayer and scripture reflection, to a deeper relationship with God and discovery of who they really are.

Book Description

Family stories are so important, and stories from our Church-family may be even more so. In this collection of brief biographies, Hannula sketches the stirring trials and triumphs of many famous and lesser known fathers and mothers of our faith-including Augustine, Charlemagne, Anselm, Luther, Bunyan, and C.S. Lewis.Written for ages 5-12. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

What Christians Should Know
This is an awesome book! We studied it in our adult Sunday school class with extra readings on each chapter from other sources. It is information that every Christian should know because it is our history! Rather than obsess on (a) series which is information that is fiction, we should read about the facts of those that went before us, many who died standing up for their faith. It is written at a level that grade school children can understand. Most adult Christians know little of our own history!

Thank you to Richard Hannula and this important book!

Best principal there will ever be
If you want to read an excellent book about stalwart soldiers for Christ, written by a principled (no pun intended), committed, and passionate Christian, and if you want to be "spurred on toward love and good deeds" by the examples of these amazing and courageous believers, read Trial and Triumph! In his writing, Mr. Hannula makes Augustine, Ambrose, Polycarp, and all the others come alive--just as he makes history exciting and real for the students he teaches in his history classes. Do yourself a favor and read his book.

very unique book
I would recommend this for adults and older children. Most Protestants put so much focus on the Bible that they don't learn much about anything that happened in the Church after the book of Acts. This book will help fill in the gaps.

Brush up on church history
This is a great way to learn church history through fascinating biographical sketches. It's a children's book, and I have read it aloud to my six- and eight-year-olds, but I enjoyed it for my own reading first. It will make you appreciate your religious freedom in a new way, and inspire you to live a courageous Christian life.

Excellent stories of some of the King's most faithful
In the great traditions of Fair Sunshine and Foxe's Book ofMartyrs, Hannula has retold many beautiful stories of Christ'sservants. Its simplicity is ideal for children, while its depth is extraordinary for all. Perfect for devotional use as well as a teaching tool. ... Read more

Book Description

Graduates are looking for a challenge. Filled with superb stories that are inspiring, funny, even sad, this passionate book issues such a challenge. Master-communicator Tony Campolo wants every young Christian to know, “You Can Make a Difference.” In four hard-hitting, humorous presentations he galvanizes high school and college students to live lives of total commitment to Christ, to move beyond warm fuzzies and good intentions, and to set a course for a lifetime of spiritual adventure. The perfect gift for any Christian who is finishing school. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

This book made a difference!
I am 13, and my father gave me this book, and asked me to read it. At first glance, I wasn't interested; it looked boaring, something for adults. I put it off for a couple of weeks, and then one day decided to give it a try. Starting on the first page, Tony Campolo, author of this book, put humor in. I loved it. I couldn't stop reading the book! I have now finished it, and definately recommend you reading it! It may look boaring, but just read the first few pages, and you will change your mind. On top of being funny, he also gets his point about dating, loving christ, and more. This is an A+++++++

Joel Holland ... Read more

Book Description

Max's best-seller Just In Case You Ever Wonder which tells of a father's love for his child, is now available in board book format.

Reviews (49)

Beautiful
I recieved this book at a baby shower for my second child. It was actually given to my 3 year old daughter by my grandmother who did not want her to feel left out of all of the excitement. When I finally sat down and read the book to her, I cried so hard that I had to stop several times. It is a beautiful story of the love only a parent can have for a child. I cherish this gift and so does my daughter.

If my child could only have one book, this would be it
Max Lucado brings his writing talents to a children's book! In a soothing way, this book will tell your child how special he/she is as he grows up, and how his parents and God will always love him. My favorite line is "I am on your side." How many of us think to tell our children that we are on their side and that our goal is to help them? This book is appropriate for adopted as well as biological children, and single parents whether male or female. If every child had this book read to them daily, the world would be a much better place in which to live. My daughter loves it, and I love reading it to her. In the future, it will be included in every shower/baby gift. You absolutely cannot go wrong with this book.

my son misses his daddy
I bought this book as an after thought. I have a running joke with my 3 year old son that his hinney is mine and he tells me "no mom God made me and it's mine" Well my husband recently deployed and my little boy really misses him and is having some concern over is daddy coming home. I got the book to support the family joke, but got much more than I expected. I can't tell you how nice it is to have a really up lifting way to explain Gods love and mommy and daddy's love and how some day we will all be together, but in the mean time "just in case you ever wonder"...I will always be here for you ( even if daddy can't be). He asks me to read it every night. I agree with one review about the monster. He really noticed that page too. I think every child can gather strength and and a stronger sence of self from this book. I am now looking at getting them all.

Frightening Illustrations for Children
I read this book to my 22 month old daughter last night. It started out fine with a nice message. Near the end of the book there is a picture of a monster that scared my daughter so badly that she wouldn't come near me for the rest of the night!

She knew what she thought she saw and when I turned the page, she got a look of intense concern on her face. She turned the page back, looked at the picture and scrambled backwards and hid her face in my husband's shirt! She started crying and saying that she was scared. I guarantee she will remember the monster picture in that book for a long time and will think of it every time she is in bed with us sitting where she was when we read it.

The story seemed to get morbid at the end to me. It may as well have told my daughter that she's going to die, so am I and we will meet in heaven. I think she is a little too young for that concept. Had I read to the end of this book before I bought it, I would have left it in the store. From now on, I will definitely read to the end of every book I pick up before I buy it!

She Read it Over and Over and Over
I don't know exactly where this book came from, but it was sitting on my kitchen table this morning. Emma had one more book to read for her monthly reading award so we plunked down and started reading.

This board book is deceptive... it is written for a child: starting as a small baby and up to a teen and yet it can also be very much for the adult reading to the small baby up to the teen.

It describes how the parent loves the child and how God loves the child, asking the child to accept and know the answer to the question of whether or not they are loved "Just in Case You Ever Wonder"... and who doesn't wonder, "Does my family love me?" or "Does God love me?" or "What is there about me to love?"

Lucado lays it out beautifully for the child in each of us to know and treasure.

You will want to have a copy of this one around "just in case" a child wanders by who you might have the chance to sit and read for a while. You could even sit out on your front steps and wait for your neighbors to come out and offer to read to them for a spell.

I read it to Emma who then read it to two-year-old Sam and then to herself again and then to Sam again and then to herself again.

She started the day cranky and ended up going to school with a big smile on her face.

See what I mean about this book?

Read it to all the "children" of every age you can. It will be good for YOUR soul as well as theirs. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

"Young Woman" a Great Book, But Slightly Dissapointing
This is a great book for any Christian teen girl to work throgh. It is divided up into different sections that focus on purity, serving, etc. Each gives real life examples and discusses how teens can make a difference at school, home and church with their faith. George provides lots of information and helps teens to easily apply these concepts to their life. A lot of girls would benefit from this book! I have learned more from this devotional from any other I've read.
However, some of the "work" in this book seemed like school. Readers look up a lot of scriptures and write a lot, and it's a bit irritating. I'm also surprised that George is writing a book for teen girls when she is much older. Sometimes I felt like she had unreasonable standards, was a bit old fashioned and was talking down to readers. (EX: She was telling readers to keept their rooms clean.) This is a better devotional for girls than most others out there, but still has its down points. Overall, though, girls will benefit from George's insights.

Great Lessons, but we're teenagers
This was a great book except Elizabeth George talks to you as if you're in kindergarten. It bothered me when she would say things like "precious one", "dear friend", etc. But other than this I learned a lot from the book and have grown closer to God. I disagreed with some things she said, but it made think and figure out my beliefs.

Every young woman should read this!!!!
I think every young woman should read this. Great readability-you get the feeling the author is speaking right to you-on subjects any young woman could use input on. Any parent would want their daughter to know about, and take to heart, the contents of this book.

A Young Woman After God's Own Heart
This book is brilliant with loads of insight to help teens develop their own personal walk with God.
George writes in a warm engaging manner encouraging the reader to be proactive in their pursuit of a heart that marches to the beat of Gods drum!
Each chapter is filled with helpful suggestions rounded off with with a challenging heart response, a practical "to Do List" to help motivate & a short bible study.
I am presently working through this book with my 11 year old daughter & it's providing her with the tools to move on in her christian walk without me being there. ... Read more