Steven R. & Celestia G. Tracy with Kristi Ickes Garrison
Zondervan/Youth Specialties, 2011, 192 pp., $ 14.99
At one time or another, every youth pastor or youth leader has asked, “Is there a book I could give to families and teens who are trying to find healing from an abusive relationship?” Mending the Soul answers this question with a resounding yes—and is a book every youth leader should keep on the shelf…in triplicate.
In Mending the Soul, we have a resource for students—a book designed for teenagers who are struggling with abuse (sexual, verbal, alcoholic, physical) in the home, at school or in another relationship. The entire book speaks to the teenager directly and is personable and accessible with plenty of real-life stories, statistics and biblical and theological affirmations that can help abused teenagers move beyond the pain, guilt and anguish of their situation. The writers do an excellent job in helping teens see that abuse in not their fault and that help is available.
Moreover, Mending the Soul offers solutions and practical steps teenagers can take to deal with abuse and/or remove themselves from a situation. This book is not for the faint of heart—and the information available to the student also should be part of any youth leader’s arsenal.
