Daniel Darling Reviews

Added June 6, 2008

Teen People of the Bible

Celebrity Profiles of Real Faith and Tragic Failure

Author: Daniel Darling
Publisher: New Hope Publishers
Available At: Bookstores everywhere
Publishing Date: Available now
Genre: Nonfiction: Young Adult/Devotional/Christian
Format: Trade paper
Price: $13.99
ISBN-13: 978-1-59669-088-2
Author Email/Website: http://www.danieldarling.com/
Reviewer: Joyce Handzo
Rating: 9 Gargoyles

Teen People of the Bible blows the dust off some ancient heroes to highlight their connection to our contemporary culture. Author Daniel Darling shows a genuine appreciation and understanding of his audience as he keeps things real and relevant.

Divided into 100 short (2 page) readings, the book examines the lives of such notables as Jacob, Rebekah, Samson and Esther, to name a few. Most interesting is the fact that the book begins with Cain. That's important and also issues an invitation to any teen who may consider these biblical figures to be holier-than-thou and therefore out of touch with today's world. Quite the contrary. As the reader examines the lives of these young people in the Bible, there is a startling and exciting application to their own lives. The underlying basic struggles that teenagers faced-whether in ancient times or today-is still the same. As is the God who provides wisdom in these situations.

Each of the readings headlines with a question about a contemporary and universal situation. "What should I do when I'm treated unfairly?" or "How can I hear God's voice?" The appropriate Bible passage is identified, and the author briefly sketches the high points. The spiritual application is solidly made in the section called "Just like you". An interesting fact, a prayer and a journal question closes the short devotional.

Although that seems like the basic template for a devotional, the difference in this book is the author's genuine enthusiasm and ability to relate to his teen audience. He is not seeking to impress his readers with clever arguments or logic; rather, he wants to touch them with the reality and the ability of God. It's that simple. Daniel Darling understands that teens are faced with questions about the present and the future. He wants them to experience the life that God has planned. To do that, he "introduces" them to other teens that have been there, done that.

Teen People of the Bible speaks with a compassionate and culturally savvy voice.

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This page was last updated on June 6, 2008

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