"Growing Up God's Way"

TITLE 1: Growing Up God's Way for Boys (80 pages)
TITLE 2: Growing Up God's Way for Girls (80 pages)
AUTHORS: Dr Chris Richards and Dr Liz Jones
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: Evangelical Press, 2013.

These two books are reviewed at the same time because most of the content are similar. Written by two practicing pediatricians, the books are aimed at an audience from puberty age to marriage awareness. It is essentially about growing up and looks at the physiological and biological changes going on in both boys and girls. Step by step, the chapters progress toward the physical growth in sexuality, often comparing the gender differences between boys and girls. At each step of the way, the authors are able to parallel the physical changes with biblical principles, reminding readers that as they change physically, they need to let biblical principles guide them in their thinking, their living, and their behaving.

Richards and Jones are both avid Church goers and passionate Christians desiring to help children grow up in a way that is honouring God. They designed the book in such a way as to make it as appealing and clear as possible. Even though one book appears to be for boys and the other for girls, the differences are minor.

Let me offer three comments as I read this book. First, the book is a useful book for kids. Looking at the way the diagrams and language is used, it is clear that the authors are aiming at child-friendly edition, so that children can read and learn the basics of what it means to grow up, in particular God's way. Though it may seem very elementary to adults, the information can be invaluable to growing children. The diagrams can be very graphic but also highly instructive.

Second, the book is suitable for parents. I know of many parents who find it awkward to share about things sexual and many choose the path of silence. With this book, parents can be guided stage by stage on how to educate their growing children. It can also be used to create opportunities for learning and bonding together as parent-children relationship.

Third, the book is for teachers and instructors, especially those who deal with children. Many books out there teach about sexuality and growth. Few approach it from a Christian angle, and few makes it simple enough to be understood.

Overall, the book is a gift for parents, teachers, and of course, the growing children concerned. May God use this book to guide the young toward becoming the children of God they were created to be.

Rating: 4.75 stars of 5.

conrade

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This book is provided to me courtesy of Evangelical Press and Cross-Focused Reviews in exchange for an honest review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.