Reviewed by: Elyse D. Baron of Livonia, MI, student writer

Introduction

Title: Let’s All Be Brave: Living Life with Everything You Have

Author: Annie F. Downs

Publisher: Zondervan

Publication Date: July 2014

Format: Print Book

Length: 208 Pages

OVERVIEW

“This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than just words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus.” Downs includes this quote from the Book of Common Prayer as an introduction to the overall tone of her inspirational book. In a personal, conversational writing style, Downs takes the reader through her own experiences of courage, while keeping the focus on the bravery illustrated to Christians by the example of Jesus.

Various scripture passages, for example Isaiah 41:10, remind us that God does not abandon us when we are scared. Each chapter is separated into different examples or categories to expand on bravery, including being able to say no and giving everything you have. Downs illustrates a way for Christians, especially college students and recent graduates, to be brave enough to face their fears and to listen to the plan God has set before them.

The target readership for this book would be Christian young adults who are struggling with demonstrating strength and during their daily lives as they follow God’s plan for their lives. This book uses Scriptural references to back up Downs’s personal experiences of needing to be brave. Many of the examples provided by Downs were of how she sustained perseverance and showed determination in carrying out God’s plan for her life. The Bible passages quoted in this book are cited from The Message and New International Version translations.

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5)

4 out of 5 stars

Suggested Audience

The target readership for this book would be Christian young adults who are struggling with demonstrating strength and during their daily lives as they follow God’s plan for their lives.

Christian Impact

In a personal, conversational writing style, Downs takes the reader through her own experiences of courage, while keeping the focus on the bravery illustrated to Christians by the example of Jesus.

Other Notes

The word sex is also mentioned three times in the book, but is not used in an inappropriate context. It is briefly mentioned as a moral challenge new adults have to face in magazines during the twenty-first century.

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