Books for Youth

Reading Program 2001

Education for Mission

FREE THE CHILDREN

HarperPerennial Library, 1999
318 pages
Craig Kielburger (#3120) /$13.00

The author, a 12-year old, read about children sold into slavery to carpet-weavers in Pakistan and India. He traveled to Asia, and later created the human rights organization "Free the Children." The book is a moving testament to the power of children and young adults to change the world. (This is also an adult Education for Mission selection.)

Nurturing for Community

THE RIGHT MOVES: A GIRL’S GUIDE TO GETTING FIT AND FEELING GOOD

Free Spirit Publishing, 1998
273 pages
Tina Schwager and Michele Schuerger (#3161) /$14.95

Filled with quotes, quizzes, tips, facts and practical advice, this book will inspire girls to take care of their bodies, to get and stay healthy, and to believe in themselves. Important topics such as eating right, building self-esteem, and exercising could introduce a teen to a lifetime of healthy habits.

YOU’RE GROUNDED FOR LIFE! AND 49 OTHER CRAZY THINGS PARENTS SAY

Fleming H. Revell, 1998
192 pages
Joey O’Connor (#3173) /$8.00

This book sheds light on 50 classic parental phrases–frequently heard but rarely understood by teens. Using Scripture, humor and wisdom, the author helps readers appreciate their parents, no matter how sensitive the issues that divide them. This is a survival guide for teenagers, even if their parents tell them they’re "grounded for life!"

Social Action

FREE AT LAST: A HISTORY OF THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT

Oxford University Press, 1994
112 pages
Sara Bullard (#3121) /$12.95

This is a vivid account of the Civil Rights movement and of 40 people who lost their lives in the struggle beginning with the 1954 Supreme Court decision outlawing school segregation, through the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. Richly illustrated with moving photographs, the book will help young people understand the importance of this period of U.S. history.

KIDS EXPLORE KIDS WHO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

John Muir Publications, 1997
117 pages
Westridge Young Writers Workshop (#3139) /$9.95

Meet young people who have volunteered their time and energy to help others. Some feed the hungry, clean up the environment, fight racism, and get involved in politics. The book encourages youth to make a difference by showing them how to get involved in their own communities and how to work for justice.

Spiritual Growth

GUESS WHAT, JESUS?

CRC Publications, 1999
175 pages
Lenae Bulthuis (#3130) /$7.95

Moving through 12 weeks, this prayer journal features a weekly theme such as prayer, praise, or compassion, and suggests activities for each week. It provides Scripture and a thought for each day, as well as an opportunity to write down things you praise God for, things you’re sorry for, and things you thank God for.

SEND ME DOWN A MIRACLE

Harcourt Brace & Company, 1996
250 pages
Han Nolan (#3165) /$6.00

When an eccentric artist moves to a small Alabama town and claims to see Jesus in her living room, 14-year-old Charity finds her loyalties divided between her preacher father and her exciting new friend. Ultimately, Charity learns that growing up means developing her own values rather than following the expectations of others.

YOUTH STUDY – STREETWISE IN CORINTH: PAUL’S LETTERS TO AN URBAN CONGREGATION

General Board of Global Ministries, 2000
32 pages
Harriette D. Cross (#2874)/$3.50

Activities, stories, and commentary offer a look at the ancient cities of Jerusalem, Rome, and the port of Corinth to raise issues of urban life and faith and see parallels for our time. Thoughtful discussion is encouraged concerning the ethical issues raised by Paul in his letters to the Corinthian church.