NCLA Review - This handbook speaks to recent high school graduates about how to maintain and nurture their faith in the real world of college or work. Baxter writes in an informal, conversational style on the topics of finding one’s identity, making wise choices, and surrounding oneself with faithful peers and mentors. Baxter is particularly strong on the topic of finding one’s gifts and choosing a major or career path. Each chapter ends with practical reflection questions, assignments, and references for print and online resources. The book reads like a sermon by a youth pastor, which, in essence, is what it is. Baxter’s prose is heavy on anecdotes (at least one per page), and his point is sometimes lost amid all the stories he uses. Baxter’s style will not appeal to everyone, but the book is sure to be useful to many high school graduates and youth leaders. Rating: 3 —AMG ( )

Several years ago, I served as a Bible study co-leader for high school girls. The toughest challenge was finding good curriculum for that age group. If this book had existed back then, it would have made the final months easier. Co-leader, Bess, and I struggled to find relevant content and ended up writing most of our own. Following Jesus Into College and Beyond, by Jeff Baxter, would have fit the bill and saved time in our busy schedules.

The book belongs in the young adult (YA), non-fiction category, but anyone can read it and benefit. The three major sections: "Who Am I?", "Do My Decisions Matter?", and "Where Do I Fit?" are questions everyone asks. However, it's wonderful to see a book that answers them for teens and twentysomethings. And if they can get answers while still in school, those answers could save them a world of hurt and confusion later in life.

If I had 10 copies of this book, there are many ways I would use them. Here are 10 possibilities:

1. A small group student Bible study.
2. Gifts for high school or college graduates.
3. Encouraging 10 families to read together after supper.
4. Parent training class.
5. Adult book club.
6. Gifts for pastors and youth pastors.
7. Gifts for family counselors.
8. Gifts for overseas missionaries for their kids or nationals.
9. Youth leader training.
10. Raffle at a neighborhood block party. ( )