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Are you looking for a book or books to recommend for high school students to read this summer? Beyond this, maybe you are considering reading a book WITH a high school student. I asked a few of my friends to suggest books that would be helpful at accomplishing the goal of growing students to know and love Jesus more and more this summer as students aren't in school.
The Jesus I Never Knew in High School edited by Cameron Cole and Charlotte Getz
“Drawing from real high school experiences, contributors like Scott Sauls, Sandra McCracken, and Jen Pollock Michel speak directly to the challenges students face - anxiety, identity, loneliness, and the pressure to perform. Each chapter meets those struggles honestly and shows how Jesus speaks into them. The result is an engaging, deeply hopeful book that helps teens see they are known, loved, and not alone.” Recommended by Katie Polski who serves as the minister of music at Trinity Church Kirkwood
“Most people want followers but not everyone knows how to lead. Oswald Sanders simply instructs his leaders on what makes a good leader and how to become one. With easy-to-read chapters, students gather attainable information with clear instructions on how to apply it to their lives. I highly recommend this book for students!” Recommended by Foster Toft who serves as the pastor of student ministry at Bethel Church
“I would highly recommend the book Knowing God by J.I. Packer for high school students because it moves beyond simply knowing about God to actually knowing Him personally. Packer explains deep theological truths in a way that is clear, engaging, and deeply practical for everyday faith. This book will help students build a strong foundation in who God is - His character, His sovereignty, and His love - which is crucial during such a formative stage of life. This book challenges readers to grow in both their understanding and their relationship with God, making it an impactful read all around.” Recommended Marty Mandak who serves as Youth Pastor at Redemption Church.
You Are a Theologian by Jen Wilkin and JT English
“I’m a firm believer that students need to understand theology comprehensively so they can better know God and rightly walk with God, so they bring glory to God. While this book isn’t necessarily written with students in mind, it communicates core truths at their level, making theology accessible to all.” Recommended by Kyle Kennicott who serves at Pastor of Student Ministry at Radiant Bible Church.
Conversion: How God Creates a People by Michael Lawrence
"One of the biggest misconceptions among young people today is how to become a Christian as well as what are the implications of being a Christian. Although this book wasn't written directly to students, the content is helpful for them to frame all that they learn in church and to make sure that their theology matches with what the Bible teaches about conversion. Plus, the short size of this book makes it especially readable in a summer." Recommended by me (Kyle!)
